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Space Studies
Bachelor of Science
TThe Bachelor of Science in Space Studies is a unique blend of the study of space science, management, operations, economy, and national security. You will be given additional flexibility to focus with a choice of one of three concentrations: aerospace science, astronomy, or space policy.
This online bachelor’s degree also examines the significance of planetary and space explorations, space weapons, space weather, and astronomy. Very few space studies academic programs match the breadth and scope of this innovative online program, which prepares you for a wide variety careers in the space field -- including the aerospace industry, planetarium / science center, observatory telescope operator, science educator, space industry management, military space officer.
The curriculum for this online space studies program was originally designed by former NASA astronaut and Dean of Science and Technology Dr. James Reilly, veteran of three shuttle missions and five spacewalks. Many of our faculty are leaders in the field, including scientists and engineers currently working for NASA, the space industry, and national astronomical observatories. You’ll also have the opportunity to use the university’s recently commissioned a state of the art remote controlled observatory, with a fully online 24-inch aperture telescope.
Program Courses
The curriculum for this program follows industry trends to help ensure relevancy to today's marketplace. View all courses.
Program Objectives
In addition to the institutional and general education level learning objectives, this degree also seeks the following specific learning outcomes of its graduates. Graduates in this degree program will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of basic mathematics (algebra / trigonometry) and fundamental classical physics.
- Analyze the possibility of life in the universe while at the same time assessing astronomical objects – including planets, stars, and galaxies.
- Critique the status of technology in modern aeronautics and unmanned / manned spaceflight.
- Synthesize the history of space exploration, from early rocketry efforts to the International Space Station and beyond.
Degree at a Glance
- Number of Credits 120
- Max Transfer Credits 90
- Tuition Per Credit $270 | $250 with military grant
- Program Length 4 years full time
- Program Format Online | Monthly course starts
- Program Director Ed Albin
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Concentrations
Concentrations are designed to help you group courses together so you can further specialize in your field and pursue a more focused path to degree completion. You will be asked to select a concentration when you enroll in this program.
Explore the concentrations available for this program.
Aerospace Science
The aerospace science concentration provides an in-depth study of space transportation systems. You take courses with comprehensive overviews of such topics as rocket propulsion, orbital mechanics, launch / reentry systems, and spacecraft design.
Sample Courses
- SPST305 - Introduction to Orbital Mechanics
- SPST310 - Rocket Propulsion
- SPST330 - Launch and Reentry Systems
- SPST425 - Satellite and Spacecraft Systems
- SPST445 - Space Transportation Systems
Astronomy
The astronomy concentration is designed to prepare you for employment in the observatory, planetarium, or science center environment. A range of courses are offered that prepare you for graduate work in the space studies field. You’ll acquire experience with the university’s new 24-inch robotic telescope.
Sample Courses
- SPST340 - Tools of the Observatory
- SPST341 - Tools of the Planetarium
- SPST435 - Planetary and Space Exploration
- SPST440 - Stars and Galaxies
- SPST465 - Space Weather
Space Policy
Space policy is designed to cultivate leaders in the space industry – both in NASA as well as the commercial space operations industry. This concentration is ideal if you have an administrative / business interest. Coursework considers space diplomacy, with extensive emphasis on space operations and organizations.
Sample Courses
- SPST304 - National Space Organization
- SPST306 - Human Space Flight
- SPST307 - Space Policy
- SPST415 - Space Station Systems and Operations
- SPST485 - Space Wargaming
Admission Requirements
- All AMU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e. GED).
- Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
- There is no fee to complete the AMU admission application. View steps to apply.
Need help?
Selecting the right program to meet your educational goals is a key step in ensuring a successful outcome. If you are unsure of which program to choose, or need more information, please contact an AMU admissions representative at 877-777-9081 or info@apus.edu.
Undergraduate Tuition Rates
Per credit hour: $270 | $250 with military grant*
*To help minimize out-of-pocket costs, AMU offers a tuition grant for U.S. active-duty servicemembers, Guard, Reserve, military spouses and dependents, and veterans that caps undergraduate tuition at the military TA limit. See all military-affiliated student benefits.
Paying for School
Because our university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), (the same as the Ohio State University, Univ. of Chicago, and U.S. Air Force Academy, to name a few), we can accept the following forms of financial aid and payments:
Ways to Save
Undergraduate Book Grant
Books are provided online at no cost if you are enrolled in undergraduate courses for credit. The undergraduate book grant is estimated to save $600 per academic semester* if you are registered as a full-time student.
Transfer Credits
Accelerate your degree completion by taking full advantage of our transfer credit options, including credit for your previous college courses, military service schools, American Council on Education (ACE) and College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests, and prior learning experiences.
Employer Contributions
AMU has educational partnerships with many employers and associations. Be sure to accurately enter your employer information when you complete our admissions application. Your employer might also offer a tuition reimbursement plan as one of your benefits.
*According to College Board Trends in College Pricing.
