Program Overview

---

Master's in Space Studies

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Space Studies is a broad-based approach that links engineering, science, and policy. This program is designed for those seeking to enter the space field or are aerospace professionals who wish to expand their knowledge.

Program Details

• Program type: Master's Degree
• Format: On Campus or Online
• Estimated time to complete: 2-4 years
• Credit hours: 33

Why Earn a Space Studies Degree?

The space industry is progressing toward a combination of government and privately funded space exploration and research efforts, resulting in the need for professionals with a broad background in space sciences and related fields. UND's space studies program offers diverse learning experiences to advance in space careers.

Space Studies Graduate Programs

Your specialized training can be achieved through thesis or non-thesis options with an opportunity to focus in an area of faculty research. Students have participated in vital NASA-funded research, such as design and construction of a Lunar/Mars habitat prototype and pressurized electric rovers.

Space Studies Degree Courses

• Introduction to Orbital Mechanics (SPST 500): This course introduces students to the problems faced by orbital analysts as they track the 7000 satellites that orbit the earth.
• Human Performance in Extreme Environments (SPST 512): This course identifies the impact that the stressors of extreme environments have on human performance.
• Human Spaceflight Systems (SPST 517): This course is designed to introduce students to human space systems, covering all manned spacecraft up to today, plus individual subsystems necessary for human occupation.
• Extraterrestrial Resources (SPST 527): This course focuses on the inventory, accessibility, acquisition, processing, and utilization of extraterrestrial resources from celestial bodies such as the Moon, Mars, asteroids, and comets.
• Space Law (SPST 565): This course serves as a graduate-level introduction to the field of Law as applied to Space Law.
• Asteroids, Meteorites, and Comets (SPST 520): The small bodies of the solar system provide clues to the origin and early history of the solar system.

Space Studies Degree Jobs

The space industry is progressing toward a combination of government and privately funded space exploration and research efforts, resulting in the need for professionals with a broad background in space sciences and related fields. UND's space studies program offers diverse learning experiences to advance in space careers, such as:

• Aerospace Business Creator
• Aerospace and Systems Engineer
• Aerospace Program Manager
• Mission Controller
• Space Scientists
• Space Systems Operator
• STEM Educator

Online Master's in Space Studies

UND is one of the most affordable online colleges in the nation for an online master's in Space Studies. For this program, we offer the same online tuition rates regardless of your legal residency.

Flexible Online Space Studies Master's Courses

With asynchronous classes, you do not attend class at a set time. If you need to balance work, family, and other commitments, this flexible format allows you to learn anywhere at any time.

Military Friendly School

UND is a top college for military-affiliated students. In fact, 1 in 7 students are veterans, active duty, spouses, or military dependents.

Support Services

• Dedicated Support Services: You'll have access to the Veteran & Military Services office, where you can get personalized help with VA benefits, advising, scholarships, and counseling resources.
• Military Affiliated Peer Support (MAPS): At UND, you'll find peer student support staff ready to guide you, offer encouragement, and connect you with the resources you need to achieve your academic and personal goals.

FAQs

How long does a master's in Space Studies program typically take to complete?

For campus students, it normally takes between 2 and 2.5 years. For online students who are working full-time and attending class part-time, it takes longer (normally about 3 years).

Is it necessary to have prior work experience in the space industry to apply for master's in Space Studies?

Prior experience in the space industry is encouraged in prospective master's in Space Studies applicants, but it is not mandatory.

What career opportunities are available after completing master's in Space Studies?

Graduates of UND's space studies program can pursue diverse careers in the space industry, including roles such as Aerospace Business Creator, Aerospace and Systems Engineer, Aerospace Program Manager, Mission Controller, Space Scientist, Space Systems Operator, and STEM Educator.

Can I pursue this degree online or through distance learning?

Yes, the majority of coursework for the master's in Space Studies program is available online, making it accessible for working professionals or individuals deployed for military duty. However, portions of the program may require on-campus attendance for hands-on activities.