Ever wanted to join a space program? Take one small step toward a giant leap with one of these 5 online certificates in space studies!
Space exploration, systems, and operations are creating exciting opportunities for graduates in engineering and related fields to venture into the space systems industry. With an undergraduate degree in a technical engineering field, students interested in space exploration, space transportation, satellites, or spacecraft design can also earn a certificate in space studies and potentially begin work toward a master’s degree.
What Is an Online Certificate in Space Studies?
The increasing developments in space exploration and the expansion of existing global programs in space systems are opening exciting opportunities for aerospace professionals. An online, undergraduate certificate in space studies provides bachelor’s-degree holders an opportunity to capitalize on the rapid growth in space applications, systems, and operations in a condensed format. Students will get exposure to remote sensing and overall satellite operations, space missions, launch operations, applications in space, and space habitation and life support systems. The certificate programs provide a unique window into the aerospace industry without the full commitment or cost of a master’s degree program.
How Much Can You Earn With an Online Certificate in Space Studies?
Engineering-related bachelor’s-degree holders who earn an online certificate in space studies can consider employment in a variety of aerospace engineering fields. In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported earnings for aerospace engineers with only a bachelor’s degree at about $116,500 annually and indicated room for an increase with certificates and extended degrees. Aerospace research and development professionals earned approximately $123,600, and aerospace research and development managers were able to earn about $167,290 and higher annually.
What Is Required for an Online Certificate in Space Studies?
To earn an online certificate in space studies, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in an engineering-related field of study, typically with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Online space studies certificate programs allow existing professionals in engineering, and, more specifically, aerospace fields, to maintain full-time employment in their existing position while completing the certificate coursework at their own pace. Most programs have a maximum time for completion and allow a portion of the coursework to count toward a master’s degree program in space studies if the participant chooses.
What Are the Best Online Certificates in Space Studies?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
