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About Our Associate's in Space Studies
Begin your journey into aerospace science with an online associate degree in space studies from American Public University (APU).
Our program, featuring a curriculum designed by a former NASA astronaut, provides a comprehensive understanding of current and historical space studies topics. Coursework examines astronomy, aeronautical science, planetary science, space policy, and aviation, all taught by expert faculty, which includes scientists and NASA engineers.
Students will have the opportunity to analyze data imaged by a state-of-the-art, remote-controlled observatory with a fully online, 24-inch-aperture telescope. Learners can also participate in ongoing research projects. For example, our Supernova Search Research Program observes and analyzes a core group of galaxies to look for supernova events. Additionally, the Exoplanet Transit Group conducts original research, allowing students to observe and delineate the orbital and physical properties of exoplanets.
Up to 60 course credits from this online associate degree may be transferred to our bachelor’s degree program in space studies, saving you time and money.
What You Will Do in Our Space Science Associate Degree Program
- Apply knowledge of mathematics, planetary science, and space science to identify, analyze, and solve space and earth studies problems
- Conduct experiments and analyze and interpret data
- Develop the necessary skills to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences
- Assess ethical and professional responsibilities and the impact of technical and scientific solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
- Function on multidisciplinary teams
Degree at a Glance
$315**
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Want to Learn More?
Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version
Must take the following in this Section:
Course ID: 4693
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5175
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Must take the following in this Section:
Course ID: 5176
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Select 1 course(s) from the following:
Course ID: 2895
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3694
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3725
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3726
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3727
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3729
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3731
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3733
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3734
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3735
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3737
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3738
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3739
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4328
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4470
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4471
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4636
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4949
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4961
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5170
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5245
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5278
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5279
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5280
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Must take the following in this Section:
Course ID: 5037
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4951
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4651
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Must take the following in this Section:
Course ID: 5172
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Must take the following in this Section:
Course ID: 3282
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Must take the following in this Section:
Course ID: 5031
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 3283
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3285
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3821
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3824
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3825
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4955
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4956
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4957
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5112
Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
---|---|---|---|
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
What is Space Studies?
Space studies is an academic discipline rooted in the scientific inquiries that help make space exploration possible. Space studies courses examine our nation’s investment in space programs throughout history. Students review the advancement of space flight technology and the contributions NASA has made to space research.
The associate degree program at American Public University combines coursework in a variety of other topics as well, including:
- Meteorology
- Geology
- Astronomy
- Planetary science
- Aerospace science
Learners consider our own planet within the context of the universe, paying attention to Earth’s composition and the nature of its interior. Class discussions focus on the systems and conditions that fuel natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and landslides.
Students also dissect the role of government in scientific research as they study the relationship between space policy and space operations.
Why Seek a Space Studies Degree at American Public University?
APU’s associate degree program introduces students to the basic concepts that define humankind’s understanding of the universe. Core courses delve into the properties and structures of planets, stars, and galaxies.
Learners also study the rich history of space flight, from the development of early satellite navigation to modern rocket propulsion systems. Moreover, students learn how astronomers collect and analyze data to decode light from distant objects and gain new insights into our universe.
Courses are led by faculty members who are active within the space science community. Students also have access to clubs and activities dedicated to aerospace science, aeronautics, and the advancement of space exploration.
Space Studies Associate Degree Program Highlights
As an online university, APU offers an innovative learning experience with an emphasis on practical knowledge and skills. Together with classmates and faculty, space studies majors engage in thought-provoking discussions about our solar system and the greater universe.
Coursework focuses on real-life applications for space science, as well as the latest advancements within the space industry. For example, students evaluate potential military, scientific, and commercial applications for unmanned aerial systems (UAS), also known as drones. Additionally, learners discuss the physiological and psychological impacts of space travel on the human body.
Classes start each month and run for eight to 16 weeks. Course materials are available online 24/7, so students may complete weekly assignments from anywhere with internet access. Classes have no set login times.
Space Science Research Publications and Events at American Public University
Students at American Public University have access to a wide range of distinguished, research-based publications. For example, APU contributes to the peer-reviewed, open-access Space Education and Strategic Applications (SESA) Journal, in collaboration with the Policy Studies Organization (PSO). Space studies majors may submit their own original scientific manuscripts for potential inclusion in the SESA Journal.
In addition, American Public University System (APUS) and PSO host the annual SESA conference each September. The SESA conference brings together educators, space scientists, students, graduates, and other experts to discuss the latest developments in the space industry. APU students and faculty may attend this comprehensive, virtual event at no cost.
Additional Research Opportunities for Space Studies Majors
Student research groups at APU utilize the University’s Wallace E. Boston Observatory, which houses a PlaneWave CDK24 cassegrain telescope with a two-foot-wide mirror. Learners can study and observe cosmic objects such as exoplanets, asteroids, and stars through high-quality telescopic images.
Furthermore, APU’s space studies program integrates NASA’s Exoplanet Database, a comprehensive record of planets beyond our solar system. Coursework and lab assignments direct students to this database, where they may gather information about various celestial bodies.
For additional research opportunities, students may participate in specialized projects, such as Variable Star Research and the Supernova Search program. These initiatives add real-life context to the theoretical concepts covered in the space studies curriculum.
Discover Student Communities Dedicated to Space Sciences
Choose from a diverse range of student activities to enrich your online learning experience. Space studies students gain access to the following clubs and professional organizations through our university:
Association for Women in Science (AWIS): Committed to helping women reach their full potential, AWIS advocates for and empowers women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA): As a premier aerospace society, AIAA helps shape the future of aerospace engineering and aeronautics. It provides its members with access to extensive resources, including networking opportunities, professional development programs, and conferences.
Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS): SEDS allows students to learn from and network with space industry leaders.
Women in STEM (wSTEM): This organization advocates for increased female representation in STEM fields and offers women professional support, as well as networking opportunities.
The Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science
(SACNAS): This inclusive organization promotes the success of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans involved in STEM, from college students to professionals.
Engage in Space Exploration Simulations With AARG
Members of APU’s Analog Astronaut Research Group (AARG) gain hands-on experience conducting research through simulated space expeditions known as “analog missions.” During each mission, AARG members travel to specially constructed facilities, or “habitats,” that replicate astronauts’ living conditions in space. While isolated at these habitats, participants conduct experiments and collect scientific data.
What Sets APU Apart from Other Universities?
Affordability
We make higher education accessible with affordable tuition rates and specialized grants, as well as:
- $0 application fees for undergraduate programs
- $0 transfer credit evaluations
- No entrance exam requirements
- No-cost ebooks
Students who enroll in our online associate program also save on costs associated with traditional campus life, such as commuting expenses.
Flexibility
As an online university, APU allows students and faculty in our space studies degree program to connect and engage in discussions from anywhere. New courses start monthly and vary from eight to 16 weeks (about three and a half months). Students also have the flexibility to work around their own schedules as they complete weekly assignments.
Accreditation
American Public University System (APUS) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The Commission accredits degree-granting institutions nationwide is also recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. American Public University is part of APUS.
Meet Our Exceptional Faculty
Our space studies faculty includes highly accomplished researchers and practitioners, some of whom have previously held the following roles:
• Certified helicopter pilots
• Editors of leading science journals
• Leaders of open cluster studies, which focus on researching stars
These educators draw from their own professional and academic experiences in their teachings.
Frequently Asked Questions
An undergraduate degree in space studies provides an introduction to the core subject areas space scientists study, such as:
- Astronomy
- Aeronautics
- Planetary science
- Space policy
- Space engineering
Master’s degree programs provide a deeper dive into these topics. In addition, students enrolled in advanced degree programs may have the opportunity to focus their studies through degree concentration tracks.
Ultimately, the best space degree to pursue depends on each student’s unique goals and interests.
You may pursue an associate, bachelor’s degree, or advanced degree in space studies, depending on the highest level of education you have already completed. If you are an undergraduate, for example, you may choose between an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree. An associate degree is sometimes referred to as a “two-year degree,” and can help lay the groundwork for a bachelor’s degree.
Alternatively, if you are a graduate-level student, you may acquire more in-depth knowledge of the space studies discipline through a master’s degree program.
Admission Requirements
- All APU 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 APU admission application for this program. 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 APU admissions coach at 877-755-2787 or [email protected].
Consumer Information
Disclosures
Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.
1The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
*Cost Per Credit Hour
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
See all military student benefits.
Cost of Attendance
Learn more about American Public University's cost components and full cost of attendance.