The International Space University (ISU) today announced the launch of the world’s first fully online interdisciplinary master’s degree dedicated exclusively to space research. The program 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.
The new program enables 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 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 program 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 program reflects that legacy while introducing a new model for research mentorship—one that connects academic rigor with direct insight from those who have flown missions and operated in space. It 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. Additional specializations will be introduced as the program evolves.
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. The MPhil program builds on this framework by pairing each student with academic supervision supported, where appropriate, by former astronauts who contribute to the formulation and refinement of research questions based on operational, mission, and human spaceflight experience.
Eytan Stibbe, Chancellor of ISU and former astronaut who flew to the International Space Station on 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. This program reflects our commitment to making advanced space education more accessible, more inclusive, and better aligned with the realities of today’s global space community, inviting talented people from across fields to contribute to the future of space.”
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 also serves as a pathway to doctoral study while standing on its own as a credential for research-driven roles in academia, industry, government, and international organizations. ISU actively supports the publication and dissemination of student research to maximize its impact.
As ISU enters this new chapter, the university looks forward to welcoming a new generation of space researchers from around the world.
About ISU MPhil:
For more information or to apply, visit www.isunet.edu/masters-online.
About ISU:
The International Space University, based in Strasbourg, France, is the world’s premier institution for space education. With a global network of students, alumni, faculty, and partners, ISU offers interdisciplinary graduate programmes and executive education that promote international collaboration and innovation in space.
To donate to ISU please visit isunet.edu/donate
