RICE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Space Studies (MSSpS)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
15 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 39 credit hours minimumTotal Credit Hours
- 3-6 month full-time internshipPractical Experience
- Professional Master's ProjectCapstone Requirement
- Focus areas in Engineering, Sciences, and ManagementSpecialization Options
- Minimum 2.67 GPA requiredAcademic Standing
The Master of Science in Space Studies (MSSpS) is a non-thesis master's degree designed to equip students with advanced scientific, engineering, and computational skills relevant to the space industry. This program bridges the gap between technical knowledge and business application, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the space sector. Students will gain practical experience through a required internship and a capstone project, developing both their technical problem-solving abilities and their communication skills.
Curriculum
The MSSpS program requires a minimum of 15 courses (39 credit hours), including core technical, science, statistics/computation, and cohort courses. Students must also complete a 3-6 month internship and a Professional Master's Project. Electives can be chosen from Engineering, Sciences (AstroScience/Earth Science/Life Sciences), or Management and Entrepreneurship to tailor the degree to individual interests.
- Core Requirements
- SOLAR SYSTEM PHYSICSASTR 570
- ORBITAL MECHANICS AND MISSION DESIGNMECH 578
- PROFESSIONAL MASTER'S SEMINARNSCI 501
- SPACE STUDIES SEMINARNSCI 502
- SCIENCE POLICY, AND ETHICSNSCI 511
- FOUNDATIONS OF PROJECT AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENTNSCI 515
- MANAGEMENT FOR SCIENCE AND ENGINEERINGNSCI 610 / ENGI 610
- Electives (Minimum 12 credit hours)
- Courses selected from Engineering, Sciences, or Management and Entrepreneurship focus areas
- Internship and Project
- PROFESSIONAL MASTER'S PROJECTNSCI 512
- Three to Six Month Full-Time Internship
Careers
Graduates of the MSSpS program are prepared for careers in the diverse and growing space industry. The program's blend of technical expertise and business acumen allows students to transition into roles that require both scientific understanding and practical application.
- Space industry professional
- Technical problem solver
- Science communicator
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic requirements to apply for the Master of Science in Space Studies (MSSpS) program?
- To apply, you need a minimum of 30 graduate-level credit hours and 24 graduate semester credit hours taken at Rice University. A minimum overall GPA of 2.67 in all Rice coursework is also required.
- What is the duration and structure of the MSSpS program?
- The MSSpS program requires a minimum of 39 credit hours, including core courses, electives, and a 3-6 month full-time internship. It also includes a Professional Master's Project as a capstone requirement.
- What kind of career opportunities are available for MSSpS graduates?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in the space industry, such as space industry professionals, technical problem solvers, and science communicators, utilizing both scientific understanding and practical application.
- Does the program provide information on tuition and living costs?
- The provided information does not include specific tuition or living cost details for the Master of Science in Space Studies program.
- How do I apply to the MSSpS program and what documents are needed?
- You need to submit an online application along with academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. English proficiency test scores may also be required. Specific deadlines should be confirmed with the university's graduate admissions office.
Entry requirements
Graduate StudyA minimum of 30 credit hours of graduate-level study (500-level or above).
Rice CourseworkA minimum of 24 graduate semester credit hours must be taken at Rice University.
Traditional CoursesA minimum of 24 graduate semester credit hours must be taken in standard or traditional courses (lecture, seminar, laboratory).
ResidencyA minimum residency enrollment of one fall or spring semester of part-time graduate study at Rice University.
Transfer CreditA maximum of 2 courses (6 graduate semester credit hours) from transfer credit.
GPAA minimum overall GPA of 2.67 or higher in all Rice coursework. A minimum program GPA of 2.67 or higher in all Rice coursework that satisfies degree requirements.
Some listed courses may not be offered every year, may have prerequisites, or require instructor permission. Course substitutions require approval from the program's academic advisor or Director of Graduate Studies, and the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. Students should consult with their academic advisors.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees not specified.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees not specified.
LivingLiving costs not specified.
The provided information does not include specific tuition or living cost details.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and credit hour requirements for the MSSpS degree, including minimum GPA and residency.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, which typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and potentially GRE scores (check program specifics).
3. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit your application through Rice University's graduate admissions portal.
4. Submit Transcripts and ScoresArrange for official transcripts and any required test scores (e.g., English proficiency) to be sent to the university.
5. Complete Internship RequirementThe program includes a mandatory 3-6 month full-time internship, which is a key part of the degree completion.
6. Finalize Professional Master's ProjectPresent your internship project in both oral and written form as part of the NSCI 512 course.
Scholarships
Templeton Foundation Academic Cross Training Fellowship$220,000 for up to 3 years
Accreditation
Not specified.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic requirements to apply for the Master of Science in Space Studies (MSSpS) program?
+
To apply, you need a minimum of 30 graduate-level credit hours and 24 graduate semester credit hours taken at Rice University. A minimum overall GPA of 2.67 in all Rice coursework is also required.
What is the duration and structure of the MSSpS program?
+
The MSSpS program requires a minimum of 39 credit hours, including core courses, electives, and a 3-6 month full-time internship. It also includes a Professional Master's Project as a capstone requirement.
What kind of career opportunities are available for MSSpS graduates?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in the space industry, such as space industry professionals, technical problem solvers, and science communicators, utilizing both scientific understanding and practical application.
Does the program provide information on tuition and living costs?
+
The provided information does not include specific tuition or living cost details for the Master of Science in Space Studies program.
How do I apply to the MSSpS program and what documents are needed?
+
You need to submit an online application along with academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. English proficiency test scores may also be required. Specific deadlines should be confirmed with the university's graduate admissions office.