Why Pursue a Master’s Degree in Space Studies at American Public University?

Space studies, also known as “space science,” is a multidisciplinary academic field that cultivates knowledge of the universe. It places special emphasis on protecting, supporting, and investing in space operations. 

American Public University’s space studies program offers an immersive online learning experience. Coursework strengthens students’ understanding of our nation’s space program and how it contributes to scientific advancements. Learners who pursue this master’s degree discuss space engineering, space law, space operations, space policy, physics, and astronomy.

Our University also offers degree concentration options in specialty areas, such as planetary sciences. Students explore the depths of our solar system as they consider the various applications for space-related research.

Gain Advanced Knowledge of Space Science

This online master of science program is designed to provide an in-depth overview of the space environment. You will conduct your own research and examine data to collect insights into our universe.

As you learn about astronomy, you will also discuss a broad scope of topics:

• The movement of objects in the sky
  
• How astronomers decode the light from distant objects
  
• The properties and structures of the stars, moon, galaxies, planets, and solar system 

Courses provide an opportunity to take an eye-opening journey through the history of early rocketry, as well, from the development of satellite navigation to modern space operations. 

Explore American Public University’s Research Opportunities and Scholarly Distinctions

American Public University students have access to a plethora of school-sponsored publications, events, and research opportunities. These resources add real-life context to the theories and concepts students explore as part of their required coursework.

For example, students may work with faculty mentors to submit their own scientific manuscripts to be considered for publication in the Space Education and Strategic Applications (SESA) Journal. 

The SESA Journal is a peer-reviewed, open-access publication. It is run by the Policy Studies Organization (PSO) and the American Public University System (APUS), which includes APU. Each month, this publication features a Student Scholarship Submission. 

Every September, APUS and PSO also sponsor the SESA conference, which offers complimentary admission to students and faculty. This virtual event brings together researchers, practitioners, and industry authorities to discuss the latest findings within the space industry.

Additionally, students may participate in the University’s space studies research groups to further enrich their experience at APU. These groups provide learners with the opportunity to examine images captured by our University Observatory, which houses a 650-pound PlaneWave CDK24 reflective telescope with a two-foot-wide mirror.

Using telescopic images from the observatory and other databases, learners can study and observe celestial bodies, including exoplanets, the sun, asteroids, and stars.
Furthermore, our labs and courses incorporate the NASA Exoplanet Database, a public record of planets that exist beyond our solar system. 

Participate in Space Exploration Simulations With AARG

APU’s Analog Astronaut Research Group (AARG) challenges learners to apply their space sciences knowledge and skills to real-world research. As members of AARG, students have the unique opportunity to participate in hands-on activities called “analog missions.”

An analog mission simulates the experience of leaving Earth and working as an astronaut. In fact, AARG refers to members who participate in these analog missions as “analog astronaut crews.”

These crews travel to various locations (known as “habitats”) throughout the country. Habitats are nationally recognized facilities that recreate living conditions in space. Crews live and work in these habitats for a given timeframe. Each mission, therefore, allows AARG members to better understand how it feels to conduct research in space.

Discover Additional Space Science Clubs and Organizations

Association for Women in Science (AWIS): On a mission to help women reach their full potential, AWIS advocates for and empowers women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA): AIAA is dedicated to shaping the future of space science and advancing aerospace engineering. It provides members with access to networking opportunities and professional development through resources that include publications, conferences, and continuing education courses.

Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS): SEDS grants students the opportunity to make an impact in space exploration while networking with and learning from pioneers in space.

Women in STEM (wSTEM): wSTEM advocates for increased female representation in STEM fields. This community also offers networking opportunities, professional development resources, and career development support to its members.

What Makes American Public University’s Space Studies Program Stand Out?

Affordability

Our university strives to make higher education more accessible through affordable tuition rates and specialized grants. When you enroll in this fully online program, you can also save on expenses associated with traditional brick-and-mortar institutions, like commuting costs and room and board fees. In addition, American Public University offers:

• No-cost admission applications
• A $0 transfer credit evaluation
• No entrance exam requirements
• Generous transfer credit opportunities

Flexibility

American Public University’s fully online space studies program allows you to connect with other students from anywhere in the world. Graduate study classes start monthly and have no set login times. You will complete assignments each week and engage in thought-provoking discussions with faculty and classmates.

Accreditation

American Public University System (APUS) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The Commission accredits degree-granting institutions nationwide is also recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. American Public University is part of APUS.

Our Faculty Will Guide You Through the Space Environment

Highly accomplished researchers and practitioners lead our master's courses. They help students consider space from a new perspective, and their direct experience in space operations enlivens our space sciences curriculum. Students are granted direct access to celebrated educators who teach each course with passion and excitement. Our faculty have served in diverse roles, including a certified helicopter pilot, editors of leading science journals, and a leader of open cluster studies.

Dr. Edward Albin

Department Chair and Associate Professor, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

 

Dr. Albin’s love of planetary sciences and aviation is evident in every course he teaches. Involved in space science since the late 1980s, Dr. Albin has mainly focused his studies on the moon, Mars, and asteroids. He is also a certified commercial helicopter pilot.

Dr. Kristen Miller

Professor, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

 

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

Dr. Katelyn Milliman

Assistant Professor, School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

 

Dr. Milliman is a co-advisor of the Exoplanet Transit Group. She has led a WIYN Open Cluster Study (a consortium of investigators representing Wisconsin, Indiana, Yale, and the National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO)), an industry panel discussion, and has presented at several conferences and meetings.

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