Master of Science in
Space Operations

The Master of Science in Space Operations program is tailored to prepare students for a growing demand for space professionals with master’s-level education. Students will complete advanced coursework on various aspects of spaceflight, human factors, research and analysis. Graduates from this program have a strong competitive advantage while continuing along their career path.

Streamlined Degree Path

  • The MSSO is a ten course, 30 credit hour program which requires a capstone or thesis for degree completion, which builds a strong research-based foundation in current topics in space operations. Taking two classes per semester, a committed student can complete the MSSO program in 18 months.

Hands-on Learning

  • Opportunities to partake in co-ops, internships and faculty-led research are plentiful at Embry-Riddle and allow students to get industry relevant experience while completing their degree.

Growing Industry

  • According to market analysis performed for Embry-Riddle in 2020, demand for master's-level relevant professionals with space-related skills grew 3.25 percent per month on average across the last three years, significantly faster than the 0.60 percent average monthly growth for all master's-level professionals.

Learn from the Best

  • Our full-time faculty are widely recognized as distinguished experts in their fields. In addition to full-time faculty, ERAU Daytona Beach employs more than 400 faculty members, who bring professional knowledge and expertise from across all disciplines and career fields. Professors and instructors represent a wide range of professional experience.

Notable Careers

  • Principal Systems Engineer
  • Quality Engineering Manager
  • Director of Operations
  • Software Test Engineer

Growing Demand

  • The space economy is expected to triple in size and become a $1.4 trillion market by 2030.
  • Average salary for professionals with a comparable degree: $104,000

30 credits

Transfer Credit

  • Varies by campus, program and more.
  • Admissions will work one-on-one with you to maximize your transfer credit. For more info, complete a request for information form or contact admissions.

Estimated Costs

  • Varies by campus, program and more.
  • Scholarships and financial aid are available. For more info, complete a request for information form or contact admissions.

Campuses Offering Degree

  • Daytona Beach, Florida

You can find state-of-the-art labs and facilities at both residential campuses, and our leading virtual labs bring hands-on opportunities to you anywhere in the world.

Mission Control Lab

  • As a part of the senior capstone course, learn to design and operate simulated space missions from a ground control station mock-up and in virtual reality onboard the International Space Station.
  • Payload Applied Technology and Operations (PATO) Lab – Offers design, development, integration and testing for a junior-level course involving payloads and instrumentation.
  • Virtual Reality Laboratory – Study and confirm the effectiveness of all training systems and explore a simulated version of the International Space Station.
  • Spacesuit Utilization of Innovative Technology Laboratory (S.U.I.T. Lab) – Conduct innovative and collaborative spacesuit research and develop hand tools and accessories for use in space.

Read more about the university’s Student Experience, Value, & Affordability, Outcomes, and Rankings & Accolades.

Why Choose Embry-Riddle?