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School of Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)

Space Studies

Online Associate of Science in Space Studies (AS)

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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

  1. Apply knowledge of mathematics, planetary science, and space science to identify, analyze, and solve space and earth studies problems
  2. Conduct experiments and analyze and interpret data
  3. Develop the necessary skills to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences
  4. Assess ethical and professional responsibilities and the impact of technical and scientific solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
  5. Function on multidisciplinary teams

View Program Outcome Assessment Results

Degree at a Glance

Number of Credits
60
Transfer up to 45 credits1
Cost Per Credit
$350 | $250*
$315**
*with Preferred Military Rate
**with Veteran Grant or APUS Opportunity Grant
Courses Start Monthly
Online
and vary from 8 to 16 weeks

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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 4693

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Philosophy of Science will introduce students to the origins and development of modern science and how that is distinguished from pseudo-science; the importance of deduction and induction and their separate methodologies; the process of the scientific method; scientific change and scientific revolutions, particularly that of Thomas Kuhn; and selected philosophical problems in the basic sciences, such as absolute space, biological classification, the modular mind, and recent discoveries of neuroscience.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 5175

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This course offers students a chance to delve into ethics from many approaches. Every day, an individual’s ethics may be challenged, and this course will do its best to provide a foundation on which students can develop a personal set of ethics. The course covers various ethical frameworks, reviews the ethical challenges individuals are likely to encounter in their daily or professional lives, and explores solutions based on ethical principles.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 5176

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This course offers students with a unique approach into the societies and cultures that we could progress toward in the future via the review of the science fiction genre. This course will review many aspects of technological questions that society will face in the future. Does the rise of technological advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics eventually bring us to a point where we must decide what is life and the right to self-determination as the Star Trek: TNG series covered in “The Measure of a Man”, laying out the rights of Commander Data. This is just one of many aspects of society and culture that will be examined throughout the course as students are made to think critically about what will the future look like.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Select 1 course(s) from the following:

Course ID: 2895

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This course develops interpersonal, group, and presentational communication skills that are applicable in personal and professional cross-cultural relationships, and focuses on differences in values, message systems, and communication rules across cultural boundaries and in multicultural settings.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3694

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This course is a contemporary study of popular culture in America – its development and characteristics, its role in shaping our individual lives and key social institutions; and its broad effects on our globalizing world. The course is designed around the interdisciplinary nature of cultural studies, and students will learn how to use key concepts and theories to examine popular culture from a number of different fields including Sociology, Anthropology, Communications, History, Cultural Studies, English, Women’s Studies, Ethnic Studies, and American Studies. Students will develop the skills to analyze the reciprocal relationship between culture and key stratification factors such as gender, race, ethnicity, class, age, region and sexuality. The course will cover many facets of popular culture from all forms of media, to sports, fashion, and the influence of technology. Students will learn to situate popular culture within its social, historical, political, and economic contexts and their personal lives.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3725

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Microeconomics is an overview course that covers how households (consumers), firms (producers), and governments interact in competitive and other markets to set prices, and determine what and how much is produced. Key concepts introduced include the role of scarcity and choice, incentives and competition, and the law of supply and demand.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3726

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Introduction to Macroeconomics is a survey course that builds on the topics covered and skills developed in ECON101 (Microeconomics) in order to present a complete picture of the economy. Macroeconomics shows how consumers and markets fit into the overall or aggregated economy and provides a framework to assess government policies. Key topics covered will include economic cycles (growth and recession), economic indicators and measures, and interest rates and money supply.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3727

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This course is a basic overview of the geographer’s study of the location and distribution of features on the Earth’s surface. These features are both natural and man-made, both physically and culturally determined. The relationship of people and place is central to an understanding of human history, contemporary events, and possible global futures. As an introductory course it covers the whole globe and all its greatest geographic features and relationships. This dictates that the approach is broad and not too deep. However, knowledge of the geographer’s art will enable students to delve as deeply as their interest and energy will allow, into the dynamic spatial realities that surround them.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3729

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This is the first course in a two-course sequence in American Government. The course is designed to convey basic facts about the structure and functioning of the American political system. The philosophical foundation of the U.S. Constitution is explored and the federalist construct is examined. The functions of the three separate branches of government and their roles in policy making are a major focus.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3731

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An overview of the field of international and global politics. The nation state, factors of power, collective security, international trade, regional and international organization, sources of conflict and convergence are addressed.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3733

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Introduction to Sociology introduces students to the sociological investigation of human interaction and behavior in society. Students will become familiar with the sociological perspective and develop a ‘sociological imagination’ – the ability to see the general in the particular, the new in the familiar, and to observe the impact social forces have on our lives. The course explores environmental, historical, cultural, and organizational influences on our interpersonal relationships and life-patterns within the context of contemporary society. Students will learn how to use sociological concepts, theory and research to think critically about individuals, groups, institutions, and societies in any given situation.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3734

|
The course introduces students to the art and science of Psychology. Course emphasis is on applying the "science of human behavior" to a variety of settings: vocational, personal, academic, and clinical. Course content introduces the history of psychology, major theories of personality and learning, current research and developmental issues. The course has a holistic approach and integrates the biological basis of behavior, social factors, learning and the unique coping styles of the individual to understand human behavior.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3735

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This course is a worldwide survey of prehistoric cultural adaptations from the first use of bone and stone tools to the ancient mysterious civilizations of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Europe including recent archaeological discoveries. Emphasis is on the development of technologies, social groups and the patterns of cultural development. Archeological excavation methods and archeological artifacts are discussed in considerable detail. Archaeological concepts and skills will be explored through simulations as well as virtual field trips and activities.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 3737

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This course is designed to acquaint the novice anthropology student with anthropology and its various sub-fields, examining cross-cultural, global, comparative, and critical perspectives on human behavior and culture, as well as the breadth of human cultures from hunter-gatherers to industrialized city dwellers. The implications of socio-cultural analysis of economic, social, symbolic, and religious systems are also considered.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3738

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This course introduces students to human nature and behavior from the broad, holistic perspective of contemporary U.S. American anthropology. The four primary sub-fields of anthropology, biological, cultural, linguistics, and archaeology, will be discussed in order to integrate various aspects of the human condition.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3739

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This course is an overview of the biological, psychological, cultural, and behavioral aspects of human sexuality and family life. The overall theme of the course focuses on attitudes and responsible sexual behavior. Key topics include how culture, society, and history have impacted our understanding of human sexuality.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4328

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This course examines a sample of social problems facing the United States today and identifies how these problems affect, and are affected by, our institutions and culture. The sociological perspective and key theories will be used to understand the beginnings of the civil society, how problems develop and are defined, and the role of social change (particularly contemporary technological innovation). Key social problems covered will include social stratification/inequality, crime, drug abuse, prostitution, aging, infectious disease, family violence, health care, racial/ethnic conflict, terrorism, etc. Sociological research on social problems will be explored, and social policies to remedy the negative consequences of these issues on society will be discussed.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4636

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This course explores the practical and theoretical social impacts of computer-mediated communication (CMC) systems, including many different types of technologies, such as social networking sites, email, forums, chat, and online games. Students will engage in the analysis of CMC practices, the social processes and structures that emerge when people use these applications, and the problems and barriers that emerge from use.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4949

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In a developed country, one can often take for granted the safety of the food supply. 1 in 6 Americans get sick from foodborne illness annually, with an estimated 128,000 requiring hospitalization and resulting in approximately 3,000 deaths annually. Practical knowledge in safe food sourcing, storage, preparation and serving is addressed along with providing tips for practical awareness of techniques for staying safe. In a global society, food safety is not just a local issue, and everyone should have a working knowledge of food safety and what to look for to remain free of foodborne illness. In this course, students will learn general techniques for preparing and consuming food that is free from harmful pathogens, incorporating the flow of food from purchasing through storage and preparation to serving. Students will explore contemporary and cross cultural issues surrounding food safety in a global society. Practical knowledge about preparing safe food and red flags to watch for when dining out will be explored. Students will learn where to find information on health inspection reports, foodborne illness outbreaks and recall alerts, and will know where to report any suspected foodborne illness or suspicious activity related to the food and water supply.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4961

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This course is based upon the Institute for Humane Education’s (IHE) definition of humane education, which is “a lens, body of knowledge, and set of tools and strategies for teaching about human rights, animal protection, environmental stewardship, and cultural issues as interconnected and integral dimensions of a just, healthy society” (Institute for Humane Education, n.d.). The course explores issues, resources, rationales, and approaches to humane education related to various considerations and disciplines, including: economics, politics, science, technology, education, the arts, philosophy, religion, and geography.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 5170

|
Introduction to Political Science explains foundational principles of the field. Students will learn the purpose of political science, common terms and concepts, and subfields. Among these are introductions to political philosophies and ideologies, comparative systems of government, and international relations. The course also examines the professional and academic fields to which a political science degree is relevant.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 5245

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Literature has the ability to shape the way a nation thinks and behaves; it both responds to important issues in society and (re)shapes them. For far too long, the literature of cultures on the periphery of American society have been ignored because they do not fit comfortably into mainstream culture. Yet, from voices within the Native American population to Appalachian artists to LGBTQ groups, for example, cultures on the periphery have consistently helped shape the American literary identity and have continued to influence American society long after the publication of their works. This course lends credence to the legitimacy of the contributions of these underrepresented cultures and explores the role they have in shaping American literature—past, present, and future. (Pre-requisite: ENGL210 for English majors, or ENGL101 or ENGL110 for non-English majors)

Course ID: 5278

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This course provides perspectives on death and dying. Students examine how death is beneficial and necessary for evolution. Participants explore the media's impact on mortality. Participants analyze how to communicate death to the living. Students assess the bereavement and burial process. Topics include: communicating death, the feeling of emptiness, the forgetfulness of life, living in the face of death, organ donation, burial, and the other side after death.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 5279

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American society is a cauldron of various racial, political, ethnic, and religious formations. Amongst these, religious and racial formations provide strong modes of social organization. Both religion and race are also a major stimulus of cultural practices and belief systems. These two modes influence the ideals of democracy, equality, freedom, and even political identifications. The current agitations about Black Lives Matter are drawing attention to the racial divisions that are splitting the American society. At the same time, these movements are receiving the support of people from different religions. The Islam phobia and growth of right-wing militias are also similarly pitting Americans against one another based upon their religious beliefs. American writers, artists, activists, and even poets have drawn attention to these linkages and the pernicious impact it is having upon our society. Their contributions provide an alternate understanding of the strengths and limitations of American democracy. In this course, we will examine a variety of sources to understand how religion and race are shaping American democracy and society.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 5280

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Difficult situations in life motivate us to think carefully about religion. The forms of religions are based on the well-being of human beings, and they have provided many different ways to follow paths that are good for our mental and physical health. This course will deal with essential questions; do religions offer ways and techniques to support that are good for our well-being? What paths have been provided to lead a good life? How our hope, contemplation, and resilience are rooted in popular religions? What are the methods advised by religions to help practitioners? The course will include traditions that are isolated to a specific culture. However, they have their historical, cultural, and social context, in which they have been beneficial to the practitioners of these cultures. On American soil, they are coming together as a melting pot, and this course will look into how their beneficial value can be used to manage current stresses. This course will look into beneficial teachings from different religions that are becoming mainstream and are practiced in a non-traditional way without converting to a specific religion. The course will cover Christian traditions, Sufi traditions, traditions from People of First Nation, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions. Ways to Stop and reflect and achieve tranquility. Not as a way of worship rather a way of living one’s life with equanimity and hope.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 5453

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This course introduces students to an attitude and approach for college success and relevant connections to their own inner motivations and external career options. Key elements in this course include values-goal alignment, an orientation to online learning, and strategies for successful adult learning. Other elements include planning a pathway from academic studies to a career path, career awareness, networking, engaging support resources, and collaborating with colleagues. Through the learning and activities in this course, students will gain the perspective needed for successful time management and prioritization, critical thinking, applied and collaborative learning, and civic/democratic and global learning. Content within the classroom includes open educational resources that are easily available online. This course fulfills one general education elective.   This course is recommended to be completed first in the student’s degree plan when possible.  COLL111, COLL112, COLL113, COLL114, and COLL115 are considered equivalent courses. Students may only take one of these courses for credit.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 5037

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Information and Digital Literacy is designed to provide students with sustainable and usable skills essential to success in both academic and professional settings. Students will learn best practices to locate and evaluate sources, and effectively communicate using digital literacy to become proficient 21st century learners.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4951

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Martin Luther King, Jr, said, “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to KEEP MOVING.” Making Writing Relevant is a composition course that will definitely keep you moving. It is not merely a required course; it is the type of course you will want to take because it moves you onto the path to success. Over eight-weeks, we will help you learn the most important components of a successful writer-communicator. We will teach you how to research properly, knowing you will need this skill in every course you take here at APUS and also in interactions in your professional and personal life. We will teach you the formatting style you will use in your field. We will provide a supportive community to strengthen and encourage you, and by the end of this nearly-all-you-need-to-know-about-writing course, you will be able to fly.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4651

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Volcanoes. Biochemistry. Space studies. Whether pursuit of scientific knowledge is for personal interest or career progression, ENGL221 gives you the knowledge and skills to understand how and why scientific writing is different from other writing styles. As a launch pad to study rocket science or gather data to advocate for environmental protection policies, this course will provide the groundwork for presenting relevant data to all scientific disciplines. We will learn the basics and practice writing various sections of a scientific paper, including the abstract, introduction, materials and methods, results, discussion, conclusion, and references. ENGL221 will explore the unique structure, style, process, and documentation found in scientific writing. (Prerequisites: ENGL101 or ENGL110)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 5172

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This course offer students the opportunity to delve into the history and context of the STEM disciplines. The course will review not only the definition of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), but the history of the individual study areas and their progression toward a unified field of study. The course will delve into the similarities that helps to unite these fields as well as the distinct differences that separate them. Students will be exposed to a wide range of topics as the course looks at different key timeframes in STEM, such as 19th century America and Europe as well as today. STEM185 and HIST270 are considered equivalent courses. Beginning January 2023, students may only take one of these courses for credit.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 3282

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This course will encompass the basic concepts involved in graphing points and linear equations and the solution and graphing of inequalities and systems of linear equations. The course will also concentrate on the manipulation and use of exponential expressions and radicals and the solution of quadratic equations and their applications. Practical applications will be provided throughout the course. There is careful attention to the presentation of concepts that will become important in the study of analytic geometry, trigonometry, and calculus.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 5031

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This course introduces students to the principles of basic chemistry; the terminology, methodology, and world view of chemistry; and chemistry’s practical application to everyday living. Topics discussed in the course include acids, bases, atomic structure, chemical equations, chemical reactions, and chemical language and nomenclature. Other topics that will be covered in the course include gases, molecular structure, solution chemistry, chemical mathematics, organic chemistry, and biochemistry. Also, students will discuss the process of the scientific method and be required to demonstrate science information literacy skills through the creation of a narrated presentation. Topics covered in this course require some comfort with math. This course is time-intensive, so students should ensure they have the time to fully commit to this course if it is used to fulfill the General Education science course requirement.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 3283

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This course in college trigonometry synthesizes topics from college algebra courses and is designed to extend students' knowledge of trigonometry. It covers a variety of mathematical concepts and techniques that are important to students planning to continue into more advanced math and math-related classes. The course concentrates on various trigonometric functions, identities, and equations as well as the practical application of trigonometry to real-life situations. The final part of the course includes polar coordinates and vectors. While there are no prerequisites for MATH111, it is very highly recommended that students complete MATH110 College Algebra or an equivalent college-level course prior to taking this course.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3285

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This course begins with a study of limits and continuity, which leads into the study of derivatives. Students will be taught to find the derivative of many functions using a variety of methods, including power rule, product rule, and chain rule. Students will then learn how to tackle several different applications of derivatives, including optimization, curve sketching, approximations, and related rates. Finally, students will be introduced to integration and how it can be used to determine areas. (Prerequisite: MATH111, MATH112, or an equivalent course)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3821

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This course will introduce students to the wonders of the universe. Topics covered in this course will involve deciphering the movement of objects in the sky; learning how astronomers decode the light coming to us from distant objects; exploring the Earth and other bodies in our solar system; and investigating the properties and structure of stars, galaxies, and the universe. Students will be encouraged to develop a conceptual understanding of these topics beyond the mere memorization of facts. With lab work and online tools, students will engage in astronomy inquiries and learn how astronomers work by asking research questions, collecting data, and defending evidence-based conclusions. This course is conceptual in nature, but students should expect to use some mathematics. Completion of at least college algebra prior to taking this course is highly recommended. This course has a required prerequisite of MATH111. Topics covered in this course require some comfort with math. This course is time-intensive, so students should ensure they have the time to fully commit to this course if it is used to fulfill the General Education science course requirement. (Prerequisite: MATH111)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3824

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Introduction to Meteorology covers the fundamental principles governing the behavior of our atmosphere and the duties and methods of the professional meteorologist. Students will gain insight into the exciting discipline of meteorology, discussing topics such as cloud formation, movement in the atmosphere, thunderstorms, tornadoes, meteorological satellites, and climate change. The Meteorology laboratory will take the student deeper into the aspects of our weather through the study and exploration of our atmosphere via online interactive modules prepared by professional meteorologists. Topics to be discussed range from hurricane formation and the impacts of extreme weather to forecasting local weather and toxic pollution. The online laboratory modules increase the student’s awareness of our planet through hands-on activities.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3825

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Geology encompasses the study of our planet, and students in this course will explore: how it formed, the nature of its interior, the materials of which it is composed, landforms, earthquakes and volcanoes, geologic resources, and geologic history. Current events that students learn about in the news, ranging from volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, landslides, and more will fit into a larger picture of how Earth works and why such things happen. The laboratory component of the course provides students with practical activities which reinforces the content of the course in a virtual format. (Prerequisite: MATH111)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 4955

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This course is designed to introduce the student to a variety of subjects, which together comprise the overall field of space studies. This includes the space environment, astrodynamics, launch vehicles, spacecraft, space operations, commerce, space law, policy, telecommunications, space navigations, remote sensing, space resources, astronomy, and space life sciences. All of these topics will be addressed with a very broad brush, as the student will study them more in-depth during later courses in the aerospace studies degree program. Instruction is primarily through readings (both textbook and online), along with weekly classroom discussions. As the first space studies course in the AS and BS degree in Space Studies program, this course also focuses on research and writing methods appropriate to space studies. The web readings listed under "Web Resources" will discuss critical elements of research, writing, style and formatting. The Turabian style (also known as the Chicago style) is required for all courses in this program. The course will introduce the student to a variety of research sources that will be useful in future space studies courses. (Prerequisite: MATH111)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4956

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Students in this course assess the major aspects of space flight. The course covers space flight from early rocketry through the development of satellite navigation, meteorology, and telecommunications, up to human space flight. Course topics also include: rocket propulsion, basic orbital mechanics, the space environment, living and working in space, and an overview of non-U.S. space programs. Instruction is primarily through readings, along with weekly forums. There will be weekly quizzes, and a paper. (Prerequisite: SPST200)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4957

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This course is a history of human activity in space and includes rocketry, space associations, voluntary organizations, human flight, unmanned flight, satellites, science-fiction, and ballistic missiles. The History of Space is a survey of humanity’s quest to explore outer space, “the final frontier.” This course is a history of human activity concerning, about, and in space and includes early humanity’s fascination with the heavens, the quest for knowledge about what lay beyond the sky, human flight, unmanned flight, the development of rocketry and satellites, the role of early space associations and voluntary organizations, space exploration and ballistic missiles and the increased militarization of space, and science fiction. (Prerequisite: SPST201)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 5112

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This course provides students a chance to explore an array of topics and disciplines across science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and provides a solid exploration of the STEM industry and career opportunities through undergraduate study. Students will be introduced to major areas of STEM, covering the fundamental concepts of each discipline, and how STEM topics are integrated into non-STEM areas. Additionally, students will be introduced to career avenues, expectations of career readiness, career satisfaction, and professional communication. There is an emphasis on developing an understanding of personal interests, skills, and abilities, with a focus on helping students find their passion through self-reflection and self-assessment. Additionally, this course is designed to foster community among students from a variety of majors.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/30/25 - 11/28/25 12/01/25 - 01/25/26 Fall 2025 Session D 8 Week session
07/28/25 - 01/02/26 01/05/26 - 03/01/26 Winter 2026 Session B 8 Week session
08/25/25 - 01/30/26 02/02/26 - 03/29/26 Winter 2026 Session I 8 Week session
09/29/25 - 02/27/26 03/02/26 - 04/26/26 Winter 2026 Session D 8 Week session
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.

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.

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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.

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