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Online Bachelor's in Space Studies: 2026 Programs
A bachelor’s in space studies is the standard undergraduate credential in this field. Common titles include BS in Space Studies, MS in Space Studies, MS in Space Systems Operations. Typical length is about 120 semester hours. In IPEDS 2024, 115 institutions reported bachelor’s-or-higher completions in the CIP codes used for this guide, and 83 of those institutions reported offering distance-education programs (IPEDS 2024). Of those, 97 reported bachelor’s completions.
Astronomer is a tiny occupation (BLS: 1,800 employed in 2024). Most space-studies bachelor’s graduates work in operations, policy, education, or contractor analyst seats, not at a telescope. Aerospace engineer wages are listed so you can see the engineering alternative, not because this CIP produces that license.
Quick answers
Can I get this degree online?
Yes. In IPEDS 2024, 115 institutions reported bachelor’s-or-higher completions in the CIP codes used for this guide, and 83 of those institutions reported offering distance-education programs (IPEDS 2024).
What will I study?
Typical coursework includes orbital mechanics at a conceptual level, space policy and law, space history, remote sensing, and a research or operations capstone.
What do graduates earn?
Astronomers: The national median annual wage was $128,820, with the 10th percentile at $78,010 and the 90th at $195,190 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025 OEWS). Employment was 1,800 in 2024, projected to grow 2.2 percent through 2034, with 100 openings per year (BLS Employment Projections, 2024-2034). Individual outcomes vary.
Do I need a bachelor’s, or will a certificate do?
Certificates cover a tool. The bachelor’s is what most employers treat as the degree. If the job posting lists a bachelor’s as required, a certificate will not substitute.
How is accreditation handled?
There is no programmatic accreditor for space studies. ABET accredits aerospace engineering, which is a different CIP (14.02) and a different silo family. Institutional accreditation is the check. Astronomer and physicist jobs at the research end want a PhD.
At a Glance
- Common degree titles: BS in Space Studies, MS in Space Studies, MS in Space Systems Operations
- IPEDS 2024 institutions (bachelor’s or higher): 115 (83 with a distance-education flag)
- Related fields: physics, engineering, aviation management
Data verified: September 7, 2026. Salary, employment, and tuition figures on this page are sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS May 2025; Employment Projections 2024–2034) and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (2023 cohort). The source agency and data year are cited inline with every statistic.