The International Space University (ISU) has launched the world’s first fully online interdisciplinary master’s degree dedicated exclusively to space research.
The programme is distinguished by a unique research mentorship model that allows students to work with former astronauts, alongside academic supervisors, in shaping research questions grounded in real mission and operational experience.
It will enable participants to complete a rigorous research degree in as little as one-year full time or up to two years part time, without any requirement to be physically present on campus.
Rather than following traditional, lecture-based coursework, students will work closely with academic supervisors and former astronauts to formulate relevant and impactful research questions, design and conduct original research, and defend a thesis.
Upon successful completion, graduates are awarded the Master of Philosophy (MPhil), a research-intensive master’s degree.
The programme responds to growing demand from space professionals seeking to deepen their expertise and contribute original research while remaining active in the workforce.
Its fully asynchronous structure allows students to engage with their studies according to their own schedules, making advanced research training accessible to professionals across time zones and career stages.
ISU President Dr John Wensveen said: “For nearly four decades, ISU has been committed to developing the next generation of space leaders. This programme represents a significant evolution in how advanced space research education can be delivered.”
True to ISU’s founding philosophy, the degree embraces the full breadth of the space sector. Students may pursue research across five broad areas: space science; space engineering and applications; space economics, policy and management; space life and human sciences; and space humanities.
Unlike space-related degrees housed within larger disciplinary departments at traditional universities, ISU is dedicated exclusively to space and operates through an interdisciplinary ‘space framework’ that integrates technical and non-technical perspectives.
Eytan Stibbe, Chancellor of ISU and former astronaut who flew to the International Space Station (ISS) on an Axiom mission 1 (Ax-1), added:
“Space research thrives on diverse perspectives and rigorous thinking. By offering a fully online research degree, ISU is extending its academic excellence to professionals and researchers everywhere, regardless of location or discipline.
The ISU accepts applications on a rolling basis throughout the year, allowing admitted students to begin their degree immediately rather than waiting for a fixed academic intake.
The degree will also serve as a pathway to doctoral study while standing on its own as a credential for research-driven roles in academia, industry, government and international organisations.
