Undergraduate Certificate in Space Studies

Overview

The certificate in Space Studies provides a firm foundation in knowledge areas essential to the study of space: astronomy, space flight/exploration (past, current and future), primary industry and government participants, and basic orbital mechanics.

• Discuss, describe, and distinguish between the characteristics of each planet in our solar system.
• Describe rocket fundamentals including propellants, combustion principles, and general components.
• Analyze the principles of manned and unmanned flight, both within and outside of Earth’s atmosphere.
• Recall the history and roles of both past and current key space organizations.
• Compare and contrast the origins and types of comets, asteroids and meteorites.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the basic laws of planetary motion and gravitation.
• Solve fundamental two-body orbital mechanics problems.

Accreditation

American Public University is part of the American Public University System (APUS), which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The HLC accredits degree-granting institutions located in a 19-state region, and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED), and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).