Take your introductory journey into space studies with the online Associate of Science in Space Studies.

Using a curriculum designed by former NASA astronaut, the program offers insight into current and historical concepts in astronomy, earth science, space policy, and space flight, taught by expert practitioners. Faculty include scientists and current NASA engineers.

In addition, you’ll enjoy access to a state-of-the-art, remote-controlled observatory and a fully online 24-inch aperture telescope. You can also participate in ongoing telescope research projects, such as our supernova research project.

Up to 60 class credits from this online associate degree may be transferred to our bachelor’s program in space studies, saving you time and money.

Degree Program Objectives

In addition to the institutional and degree level learning objectives, graduates of this program are expected to achieve these learning outcomes:

  • Apply knowledge of mathematics, earth science, and space science to identify and solve space/earth studies problems.
  • Conduct experiments, analyze, and interpret data.
  • Communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
  • Assess ethical and professional responsibilities and the impact of technical and/or scientific solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
  • Function on multidisciplinary teams.

Degree at a Glance

General Education Requirements30
Major Required30
Total Semester Hours60

Degree Program Requirements

General Education Requirements (30 semester hours)

Arts and Humanities (6 semester hours)
PHIL202Philosophy of Science3
STEM270Thinking and Acting Ethically3
Civics, Political and Social Sciences (6 semester hours) 1
STEM280Exploring Society and Cultures via Science Fiction3
Select 1 course from the following:3
Introduction to Anthropology
Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
Human Sexuality
Social Media and Society
Intercultural Communication
Microeconomics
Macroeconomics
Humane Education: A Global Interdisciplinary Perspective
Introduction to Geography
Practical Food Safety and Awareness
International Relations I
Forgotten America--Under Represented Cultures in American Literature
Introduction to Political Science
American Government I
Introduction to Psychology
Death and Dying
Race & Religion
Hope and Resilience
Introduction to Sociology
Social Problems
American Popular Culture
Communication: Writing, Oral, and Multimedia (9 semester hours)
COMM120Information and Digital Literacy3
ENGL110Making Writing Relevant3
ENGL221Scientific Writing3
History (3 semester hours)
STEM185The History and Context of STEM3
Mathematics and Applied Reasoning (3 semester hours)
MATH110College Algebra3
Natural Sciences (3 semester hours)
CHEM180Introduction to Chemistry3
Total Semester Hours30

Major Required (30 semester hours)

MATH111College Trigonometry3
MATH225Calculus3
STEM100Introduction to STEM Disciplines3
SCIN134Introduction to Astronomy with Lab4
SCIN137Introduction to Meteorology with Lab4
SCIN138Introduction to Physical Geology with Lab4
SPST200Introduction to Space Studies3
SPST201Introduction to Space Flight3
SPST203History of Space Flight3
Total Semester Hours30