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

Space Studies

Online Bachelor of Science in Space Studies (BS)

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About Our Space Studies Program

Prepare for the political, economic, legal, commercial, scientific, and technical challenges associated with human space exploration with a Bachelor of Science in Space Studies from American Public University (APU). The program offers a glimpse into space sciences, space physics, and space systems. 

Very few space studies academic programs match the breadth and scope of this innovative online space industry program, its courses, and its concentration options, including astronomy and space entrepreneurship. 

This space studies degree program uses a curriculum originally created by a former NASA astronaut who took part in three shuttle missions and five spacewalks. Our faculty includes scientists and engineers who have worked for NASA, the space industry, and national astronomical observatories. 

Students enrolled in our space program will have an opportunity work with images acquired from the fully online 24-inch aperture telescope housed in the University’s state-of-the-art, remote-controlled observatory.

What You Will Do in Our Degree Program

  1. Apply knowledge of mathematics, earth science, and space science to identify and solve space/earth studies problems
  2. Conduct experiments, research, analyze, and interpret data
  3. Communicate effectively with a range of audiences
  4. Assess ethical and professional responsibilities and the impact of technical and/or 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
120
Transfer up to 90 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

Students must choose a concentration for this degree program:

Objectives:

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 3692

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Students taking this course compute and calculate satellite orbits, planetary orbits, solar system orbits, and other essential space orbits. Designed for the non-scientist student, this course provides a fundamental understanding of how orbital mechanics works in space. (Prerequisites: MATH111 and SPST200)
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: 4832

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This is a survey course of rocket propulsion that covers the history of rockets, the basic science of rocket propulsion including Newton’s Third Law, basic fluid mechanics, the ideal rocket equation, nozzle design and impulse, types of rockets including thermodynamic and electrodynamic, and exotic propulsion methods such as solar sails, tethers and the future of antimatter propulsion. As an introductory survey course, the objectives of this class are geared towards gaining a conceptual understanding of these topics and how rocket propulsion works, rather than memorizing a lot of facts.
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: 4835

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This is a survey course of launch systems and re-entry principles that reviews the basic principles of rocket propulsion, and covers launch windows, times and locations, launch vehicles and their subsystems, the concept of staging, current launch systems, re-entry design including trade-offs and options, and ICBM re-entry systems.
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: 3162

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Orbital satellites and spacecraft are discussed according to their application, design and environment. The power system, shielding and communication systems are reviewed along with their missions, space environment and limitations. This course elaborates on Space Station flight operations, its supporting elements and planned systems. Students will study commercial applications, logistical support, maintenance and servicing design concepts. (Prerequisites: SPST200)
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: 3164

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This course evaluates Space Transportation Systems (STS) including manned space flight operations, supporting systems and the Space Shuttle mission, both present and future. Included are manned space flight operations, supporting systems and the Space Shuttle mission, both present and future. A review of Space Shuttle flight profiles, guidance and navigation control, proximity operations and rendezvous and a brief review of hypersonic orbiter aerodynamics are included. Also covered are future STS applications to space station logistical operations, commercial applications and Department of Defense operations. (Prerequisites: SPST200)
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

Objectives:

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4958

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This course is designed to familiarize students with the tools used by the astronomer in the observatory. Such tools include telescopes and astronomical imaging cameras. Students will have the opportunity to use the APUS remote observatory. The course will also introduce students to career opportunities as night telescope operators at astronomical observatories.
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

Course ID: 4959

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This course is designed to familiarize students with the equipment and operation of the modern planetarium. Students learn about the use of the planetarium as an effective astronomical educational tool, and explore exciting career opportunities in the planetarium field. Students have the opportunity to utilize planetarium software and visit a local planetarium in their region of the country.
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: 5371

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This course focuses on the concept of habitability and the search for habitable conditions in our galaxy. Students learn about the requirements for life and the conditions for circumstellar and galactic habitable zones. They will explore the possibility of life both within our solar system and on planets that orbit other stars, known as exoplanets. Students will study the Drake equation and use this important tool to understand the conditions for the development of intelligent life elsewhere in the universe. They will consider the differences between primitive and intelligent life, and current efforts to search for both. Completion of at least college algebra prior to taking this course is highly recommended. (Prerequisite SCIN134)
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

Course ID: 4960

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This course is designed to familiarize students with celestial objects found beyond the Solar System. Students learn about the origin and evolution of stars and galaxies. Topics covered in the course include main sequence stars, red giants, white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes. Galaxy classification is also considered. Students have the opportunity to use the new APUS remote observatory for celestial observations.
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

Course ID: 5373

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This course covers the origins and evolution of the universe. It begins by describing the scale of the universe, both in size and in distance. It will take an in-depth look at the important eras in the history of the universe from the Big Bang to the expansion and inflationary periods. This course will analyze the possible future of the universe as a function of critical density, dark matter, and dark energy. It will consider observational evidence for these theories and also investigate the Steady State Theory and alternate cosmologies. (Prerequisite SPST440)
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

Objectives:

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 3158

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This course addresses the United States organization for space operations, to include exploration, satellite operations, military purposes, and research and development. Included in the organization will be the linkages between governmental and non-governmental enterprises in or dealing with space. The course will also briefly address comparative organizations for space as witnessed in other industrialized nations. (Prerequisites: SPST200)
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: 3153

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This course evaluates the physical and psychological effects of spaceflight on humans, countermeasures for both short- and long-duration spaceflight, and discussions of human factors in spacecraft engineering. (Prerequisites: SPST200)
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: 3154

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This course assesses the various aspects of policy surrounding space activities and investigates how space policy evolves from historical contexts through policy outcomes, including law, commerce, the environment, international cooperation, and national security. (Prerequisites: SPST200)
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: 3161

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This course elaborates on Space Station flight operations, its supporting elements and planned systems. Students will study commercial applications, logistical support, maintenance and servicing design concepts. (Prerequisite: SPST200)
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

Course ID: 4833

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This course promotes the understanding and effective use of space power while providing insight into the shaping and consequences of strategic decisions made in a space wargame. Students explore critical space issues in-depth and investigate the integration activities of multiple agencies associated with space systems and services. The course includes an overview of wargaming, the reasons why we wargame, and the history of wargaming. It then examines the space environment and why we wargame in space, even though there has never been a conflict in that domain. Next is an overview of Thor’s Hammer (the National Reconnaissance Office’s wargame) and the Schriever wargame series, followed by lessons learned from each wargame and how wargames affect military strategy. This course allows students to think critically about the importance of space assets and how best to protect them.
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

This concentration consists of five courses. The concentration provides the student with an array of study and course work in idea feasibility, the legal realm of entrepreneurship, funding the venture, marketing, prototyping, and technological innovation.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Determine feasibility of a business idea.
  • Assess the legal requirements of being an entrepreneur.
  • Analyze various methods necessary to grow an entrepreneurial business through funding options.
  • Distinguish innovative technology from non-innovative technology for competitive advantage.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4715

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The act of being an entrepreneur is taking an idea and turning it into reality. There are two types of entrepreneurs - those that have a myriad of ideas and those that can't think of one idea. This course, Idea generation, is dedicated to helping the student identify opportunities for a new business venture by either deciding on one idea they have or helping to create ideas. The course starts with recognizing various ways to come up with a new idea and ends with outlining a plan to take the idea to reality.
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: 4570

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This course studies the financial strategies needed to support a new venture. The student investigates sources of funding and analyzes investment strategies unique to the start-up. This course helps students to develop the conceptual framework to determine a wide variety of ethical and financial problems related to launching the entrepreneurial venture. Topics addressed include financial statements, pro forma statements, cost of capital, break-even, financial ratios, investor expectations, and exit strategies. Spreadsheet software is used in this course.
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: 3154

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This course assesses the various aspects of policy surrounding space activities and investigates how space policy evolves from historical contexts through policy outcomes, including law, commerce, the environment, international cooperation, and national security. (Prerequisites: SPST200)
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: 5374

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This class introduces students to the fundamentals of space and planetary habitats, not limited to space stations but including lunar, asteroid, and Martian structures. It will provide an understanding of the cost/value of such habitats and how they can be built. (Prerequisite SPST307)
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

Course ID: 5375

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This class introduces students to the fundamentals of space and planetary resources, including lunar and asteroid mining, solar power in space, and Martian resources. It will provide an understanding of the cost/value of such resources and how they can be gathered. (Prerequisite SPST307)
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

In this concentration, you will study the relationship between the physical, chemical, and biological processes operating in and on the Earth. You will learn about the history of the Earth and the evolution of systems such as the oceans and atmosphere, as well as detailed information about soils, streams, weather, and climate. The relationship between humans and the Earth is examined from multiple perspectives.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Use the scientific method and scientific tools to solve programs related to the Earth.
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the interrelated physical, chemical, and biological processes operating in the Earth system.
  • Identify the process and features associated with the Earth’s interior, landscapes, oceans, and atmosphere.
  • Construct a history of the Earth, focusing on physical, chemical, and biological changes.
  • Present earth science information clearly, in multiple formats (written, oral, graphically).
  • Integrate knowledge of earth science into an understanding of societal issues and problems.
  • Demonstrate good scientific ethics.
  • Identify different earth materials, including those of economic value.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4741

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Earth System History explores the amazing history of our planet. Many astonishing events of the geologic past, and the science behind how they came to be understood are examined. The Earth and its inhabitants have undergone continuous change during the last 4.56 billion years. These changes are investigated using an integrated approach that considers the inter- relationships between the solid Earth, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Thus, students learn how our planet became a place where life began and continued to flourish; how change has dominated Earth history; and how continuing changes to Earth’s subsystems may challenge us in the future.
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: 4745

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Geomorphology is the study of the physical features of the Earth’s crust. The study of geomorphology helps us understand not only about the earth as it is today, but also as it may have been in the past. Climate change and global warming are hot issues in current events these days, but how do scientists determine the climate is actually changing? Through observation of what we see today, and comparison to what we “see” in the past. This allows us to determine if the climate of the earth has always been like it is today or whether it's changed over time. With that knowledge we can predict how the climate might change (or not) in the future. If global warming and cooling has happened before, then it might happen again. One way to determine past climatic conditions is to study the landscape. What types of landforms are associated with different climatic conditions? The Midwest used to be the bottom of a vast shallow sea; the northern part of our continent was sculpted by glaciers that no longer exist. Understanding geomorphology, gives us insight to the landforms we see today that are the result of processes no longer at work on the landscape. (Prerequisite: SCIN138)
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

Course ID: 5334

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This class introduces students to the fundamentals of remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), and associated geospatial technologies and techniques such as global positioning systems and image interpretation. It will provide an understanding of spatial data and its creation, manipulation, and analysis, through a combination of conceptual learning and hands-on exercises that focus on applications in earth and space studies.
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

Course ID: 4748

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The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the complex relationships between the natural hazards of earth processes that have direct, and often sudden and violent impacts on human society. The course integrates principles of geology, hydrology, meteorology, climatology, oceanography, soil science, ecology and solar system astronomy. This class describes the earth processes that drive hazardous events in an understandable way, illustrates how these processes interact with our civilization, and describes how we can better adjust to their effects. Examples and case studies are taken from international and U.S. experiences, along with how societies adjust to natural hazards. (Prerequisites: GEOG103 and ERSC302)
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: 5335

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This course introduces students to the principles of planetary sustainability. Students explore various aspects of sustainability, including energy use, industrial processes, waste generation and disposal, and the built environment. As part of the focus on solutions, the course introduces students to tools society can use to attain and implement sustainable practices, such as policy, law, education and communication, marketing, research advocacy, and international agreements and collaboration.
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

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
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

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This course offers the students an opportunity to delve into ethics from a multitude of approaches. Each and every day an individual’s ethics are challenged, and this course will do its best to provide you with a foundation on which the student can develop their own set of ethics. The course will cover the various ethical frameworks, review ethical challenges one is bound to encounter in their daily life, and look back at historical situations that have been studied extensively so that one can see how other individuals have reacted in their own situations.
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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 diversity 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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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This course examines a diverse 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
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

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Microeconomics for Business is an overview course that covers how microeconomics impacts business operations and the strategic management of the organization. Households (consumers), firms (producers), and governments are examined to assess how they 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
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

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Macroeconomics for Business is an overview course that covers how macroeconomics impacts business operations and the strategic management of the organization. An introduction to the principles and tools of macroeconomic analysis is provided. Macroeconomics for Business investigates the main topics of the overall economy including Gross Domestic Product, inflation, unemployment, economic growth, recession, monetary policy and fiscal policy. We use these theories and concepts to examine the role of the government in our economy and how government makes choices.
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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)
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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This course investigates the concepts of college algebra. The course covers the concepts of algebra, graphing and solution of linear and quadratic equations, inequalities and the solution of systems of linear equations. The course is organized into four distinct parts. The first part of the course covers the basic concepts involved in graphing points and linear equations. The second part of the course investigates the solution and graphing of inequalities and systems of linear equations. The third part of the course concentrates on the manipulation and use of exponential expressions and radicals. The final part of the course considers the solution of quadratic equations and their applications. Practical applications are 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. The course assumes the student has completed MATH101 Introduction to College Algebra or an equivalent course and is completely comfortable with the language of algebra, equations and inequalities, polynomials, factoring, and rational expressions.
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

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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
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

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This is a course in college trigonometry. It synthesizes topics from college algebra courses such as MATH110, extends the students' studies to trigonometry, and introduces topics in analytical geometry. It covers a variety of mathematical concepts and techniques that are important to those continuing into more advanced math and math-related classes. Practical applications are provided throughout the course. The course concentrates on various trigonometric functions, identities, and equations as well as the 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 the student has completed MATH110 College Algebra or an equivalent college-level course. The course assumes the student is completely comfortable with the language of algebra, equations and inequalities, polynomials, factoring, and rational expressions. If a lower-level math course has not been completed recently, we recommend that students take MATH100, MATH101, or MATH110. This class is recommended only for students with prior math experience and who have an adequate amount of time to pursue a highly accelerated course of study in eight weeks.
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: 3820

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This course offers an introduction to classical physics for non-scientists. Students will learn to apply Newtonian principles to the fundamental topics of motion, gravitation, momentum, work, energy, heat, wave behavior, sound, light, electricity, and magnetism. Basic algebra will be used in this course to demonstrate how mathematics can describe and predict the real-world behavior of objects ranging from electrons to planets. Students will be expected to relate physics principles to their daily lives. Through interactive simulation software, lab exercises will teach students how to take measurements, make observations about physical phenomena, make calculations, and test out their own reasoning. 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
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

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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
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

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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
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

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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
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 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
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

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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
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

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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
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: 5372

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This course is a tour of the planets and moons of the solar system and an introduction to their internal structures, atmospheres, and surface features. Processes that form planets and act continually to change them, such as earthquakes, volcanoes, giant impacts, are discussed, as are comets, asteroids, rings, and life. Information gained from spacecraft missions is highlighted. In the laboratory component, students will engage in planetary science inquiry using online interactive simulations and data gathered from space missions and ground-based observatories to help reinforce and build upon the concepts presented in the lecture portion of the course.
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: 3163

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This course is a summary of U.S. and international space programs. The student will assess the Earth and its space environment, to include methods of scientific exploration and spacecraft and payload criteria at the basic physics level. This course elaborates on Space Station flight operations, its supporting elements and planned systems. Students will study commercial applications, logistical support, maintenance and servicing design concepts. (Prerequisites: SPST200)
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: 3169

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The relatively new science of space weather has significant influence on both the space program, and our increasingly technology-dependent society. Space weather is largely the result of solar activity, including sunspots, solar wind and solar flares and their interaction with the Earth's magnetic field. This course will discuss this Sun-Earth connection, its implications for both Earth-bound and space activities, and the current state of space weather study and prediction.(Prerequisites: SPST200 or SPST435)
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

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
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: 5177

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This course will expose students to how since the earliest days of mankind, technology and technological advances have helped to mold our society and guide our prosperity, but also to the goals of the society in driving the development and progression of technology as well. This course will review the various periods of time, where the world leaped forward in their understanding of the world around them and how they could harvest the world around them to advance their own world. This course will also reveal the potential conflicts of complex relationships between technology and society, looking at such topics as global warming, artificial intelligence, nuclear weapons, and many other potentially dangerous technological advances.
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

Choose 3 credit hours from this section.

Course ID: 5178

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This course offers an opportunity for students to look into the surveillance that takes place at all levels in today’s world. The course will first review the collection of surveillance technologies such as CCTV, border control, traffic cameras, etc. The course will then continue onward to look into such innocuous and hidden data collection such as website analytics, app data collection, online identity databases, and more. These topics will be viewed not only from the collection standpoint but also from a privacy standpoint and an ethical standpoint. Students will study these data collections and look at the rationales for their collection and be encouraged to justify or refute these collections on an ethical or privacy basis.
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: 5179

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This course offers students a unique peek into the world of artificial intelligence and analytics without all of the mathematics. The course will review the advancement of artificial intelligence technology in such fields as facial recognition, neural networks, self-driving vehicles, and the controversial Deep Fakes. The course will then continue to delve into the analytics and algorithms that drive our daily lives and that we willing feed more and more data to. From Facebook Likes to shopping cart analysis and prediction, this course will review the ways we interact knowingly and unknowingly with these technological advances and the effects that they are having on humanity as a whole.
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

Choose 3 credit hours from this section.

Course ID: 5404

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This is a course to prepare students for Calculus. It synthesizes topics from college algebra and trigonometry (courses such as MATH110 College Algebra and MATH111 Trigonometry). It also goes into greater depth with concepts that will be crucial when taking Calculus. These mathematical concepts and techniques are important to those continuing into more advanced math and math-related classes. Practical applications are provided throughout the course. The course assumes the student is completely comfortable with the language of algebra, equations and inequalities, polynomials, factoring, and rational expressions. If a lower-level math course has not been completed recently, we recommend that students take MATH100 Pre-Algebra or MATH101 Introduction to College Algebra.
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: 4894

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This is an introductory statistics course designed to help students achieve a basic understanding of the statistical methods available to analyze and solve the wide variety of problems encountered in the workplace. This course is designed for students who seek an understanding of descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The emphasis of the course will be on the proper use and interpretation of statistical techniques. MATH120 is the recommended mathematics general education course for students who will be required to take additional statistics courses such as MATH302 Statistics as part of their program of study.
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

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This is the first course of a three-part Calculus sequence to prepare students for advanced work in mathematical fields including, but not limited to the engineering, computer science and economics fields. It introduces the student to the basic concepts and techniques of differential calculus. Topics include a pre-Calculus review (functions, graphing), limits, derivatives, computations (Power rule, Product Rule, Quotient Rule and Chain Rule), special functions (trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic), implicit differentiation, applications of differentiation (approximations, optimization and related rates), and curve sketching. (Prerequisite: MATH111, MATH112 or equivalent)
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 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.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4333

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Analyses of specific issues will be conducted that will include a review of current and future space exploration goals and discoveries, space policy and law, aerospace engineering, and astronomical studies and discoveries. Students will review and analyze the problem solving process with consideration for the implications of these areas on national and global scales. This capstone course will provide students with the opportunity to complete an approved academic research exercise that demonstrates their knowledge of their selected field of study. (Prerequisite: Completion of a minimum of 105 hours towards your program)
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, sometimes referred to as space science, introduces students to a scientific discipline that blends the study of various aspects of space, including astronomy, aerospace engineering, space physics, space exploration, space entrepreneurship, space policy, and earth sciences. 

Students interested in a space studies major will be introduced to a wide range of topics in space exploration, spaceflight, and space systems, helping prepare them with the knowledge required to contribute professionally to the space industry.

space studies

Why Pursue a Space Studies Degree?

Space studies is a dynamic and rapidly expanding field that covers a broad range of interests, experience, skills, and education. APU space studies students can study Earth and the solar system; explore the secrets of the universe; and gain knowledge of the fundamentals of spaceflight, including operations, regulations, and policies. 

If you love the idea of exploring the final frontier, you can launch into an exciting journey learning about space exploration, commercialization, space law and national defense, astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, unmanned aircraft systems, and engineering. As you build knowledge in this field, you develop expertise to help shape the future of space science, space law, or national defense.

Space Studies Curriculum Highlights

American Public University is fully committed to providing students with innovative, online instruction to fulfill their quest to explore the unknown, push the boundaries of human knowledge, and contribute to a world where space is accessible to all.  

Our degree program allows students to examine space principles while exploring various space science-related subjects and courses. As a student of space studies, you’ll have the opportunity to explore an exciting and unique concentration and gain experience examining data and conducting research using our state-of-the-art observatory and telescope.  

Students interested in aerospace science can study space transportation systems, focusing on spacecraft design, orbital mechanics, rocket propulsion, and more. Students interested in astronomy can learn about habitable worlds, stars and galaxies, the solar system, as well as planetariums and observatories. Those with an affinity for earth science can dive deeper into physical, chemical, and biological processes, the evolution of oceans, atmosphere, weather, and climate.  

Additionally, the program introduces space entrepreneurship, including its legal, technological, marketing, funding, and prototyping aspects. Students also have the chance to focus on space policy, examining its impact on NASA and the commercial space industry. 

 

Leading-Edge Learning

This program stays on the industry’s cutting edge, allowing students to discuss trending topics. One emerging area of interest includes unmanned aerial systems, commonly called drones, and their use in military, scientific, and commercial applications. Students also engage in dialogue about human factors in space, discussing the physiological and psychological challenges of space exploration, including how space impacts human life, how it can become sustainable, and how to protect humans from environmental hazards.

Some courses include lab work using the NASA Exoplanet Database. Exoplanets are planets that exist outside the solar system. This database is a public record of all confirmed exoplanets to date. You may also be able to participate in APU’s Exoplanet Research program, which utilizes telescope images from the University Observatory, as well as other exoplanet databases, to confirm exoplanet candidates and their properties.

 

Program Distinctions and Research Opportunities 

You may be surprised to learn that our online space studies program features exceptional learning experiences like those found in traditional classrooms and universities. Online labs, research opportunities involving Supernova Search Research, Variable Star Research, and Exoplanet Transit Photometry, and access to our Planewave CDK24 telescope are just some of the distinctions to be found. The opportunity to participate in analog astronaut missions at nationally recognized habitats as part of the APUS Analog Research Group is another exciting option open to space studies students.

Students in our program can gain skills and engage in research with images gathered through our University Observatory, located in Charles Town, West Virginia. It houses a 650-pound Planewave CDK24 reflective telescope with a two-foot-wide mirror. 

Regardless of your location, you can participate in original astronomical research. Students can analyze collected telescopic data, including images of the moon, stars, and planets, and conduct autonomous supernova searches and variable star research.  

Why Attend the American Public University for Space Studies?

Academic Quality

Recognized as a leader in the online education community, American Public University is part of the American Public University System, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The University has been recognized for sustainability initiatives, academic quality, and operational best practices. Our leadership, faculty, staff, and students have also been recognized for individual achievements.

 

Affordability

We’re committed to making your degree attainable by minimizing education costs. In addition to affordable tuition rates, APU’s fully online program allows you to save on expenses associated with on-campus learning, such as room and board or commuting costs. Additionally, APU offers:

  • No-cost admission applications
  • No-cost ebooks
  • No-cost transfer credit evaluation fee
  • No entrance exams
  • Generous transfer credits
  • Tuition grants for veterans and public safety professionals

 

Flexibility of Online Learning

Convenient, flexible, and easily accessible, American Public University’s space studies program is available online, with new classes starting monthly. This degree program allows you to take classes from anywhere, any time, and complete subjects and assignments on your schedule to meet weekly due dates. As an online program, no matter where you live, you can attend remotely and connect with students worldwide.

Learn from Our Esteemed Space Industry Faculty

Our courses are led by distinguished and renowned master’s and doctoral-level faculty who bring their expertise in space sciences to you. From our beginnings with a curriculum initially created by a former NASA astronaut to today, APU students benefit from respected faculty and researchers in the field. 

Edward Albin

Dr. Edward Albin
Department Chair and Associate Professor, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

Dr. Albin shares his passion for planetary science and aviation with students. Dr. Albin has been involved in space studies since the late 1980s. Most of his studies have centered on the Moon, Mars, and asteroids, and he is a certified commercial helicopter pilot.
Dr. Kristen Miller

Dr. Kristen Miller
Professor, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

Dr. Miller heads the Supernova Search Research Group, the APUS Analog Research Group, and co-advises the Exoplanet Transit Group. She also co-advises the University’s student chapter of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and she is the co-editor-in-chief of the Space Education and Strategic Applications Journal. 
Dr. Katelyn Milliman

Dr. Katelyn Milliman
Assistant Professor, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

Dr. Millman is a co-advisor of the Exoplanet Transit Group. She has led a WIYN Open Cluster Study (WIYN is a consortium of investigators representing Wisconsin, Indiana, Yale, and NOAO), a space studies panel discussion, and has presented at various space industry conferences and meetings.
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Explore Space Science Organizations and Clubs

APU's space sciences learning opportunities extend beyond the classroom and laboratory. Students and graduates are encouraged to join a professional club or organization to promote innovation, knowledge, and collaboration.

Space sciences majors also have a wide range of clubs to choose from, including:

APUS Analog Astronaut Research Group: This group provides space studies students with hands-on exploration opportunities, where they can plan for and participate in analog missions at various analog habitats.

Women in STEM: Promotes female representation in STEM fields and provides networking opportunities and professional information, resources, and support to help develop and enhance their careers.

Association for Women in Science: Advocates and empowers women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to help them reach their full potential.

Students for the Exploration and Development of Space:  Empowers members to make an impact in space exploration and provides opportunities to interact, network, and learn from leaders in the space industry.

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA): Furthering the purposes and programs of the professional society AIAA and dedicated to shaping the future of aerospace.  

Frequently Asked Questions

A Bachelor of Space Science, referred to by some universities as a space studies degree, is an undergraduate academic program for students interested in studying space, including astronomy, astrophysics, aerospace engineering, planetary science, space exploration, space policy, and space systems. This interdisciplinary field helps students understand the space industry in depth and develop the computational, quantitative, and theoretical skills necessary to contribute to the profession.
The commercial industry is rapidly growing, including NASA's plans for solar system exploration and a return to crewed deep space flights. Public support for space endeavors has increased following the creation of the Space Force, highlighting the value of space assets and the need to protect U.S. interests in space. These and other factors make the space field a growing area with the potential for many exciting opportunities.
A space systems engineer is responsible for developing, designing, maintaining, testing, and operating spacecraft, aircraft, missiles, and satellite systems. They also support engineering during launch and orbit and develop and implement system architectures, operational procedures, risk management, data analysis, and plans. 

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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].

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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.

*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.

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