For students who are looking up to the skies and pondering potential career pathways, there are an array of space study programs at community colleges across the country!
Students who choose to pursue studies in space can find jobs with NASA or companies that focus on satellites and technologies that tie into this expansive field. In fact, even cellular and other satellite-based companies are seeking new employees to assist with planning and developing space-based products and services.
To train students for these and many other related careers, community colleges offer space-related courses of study, including pathways that incorporate engineering, physics, and math. Also, to improve current programs, many community colleges are collaborating with NASA to create curricula and courses to prepare students for futures in space studies. Today, community colleges are establishing both new and revised programs to address the interests of science and exploratory students.
In recent years, the field of space exploration has captured the imagination of many, and the demand for professionals in the space industry continues to grow. Local community colleges have recognized this trend and are now offering a range of educational opportunities for individuals aspiring to work in this exciting field. In this article, we will explore the various ways you can prepare for a career in space at your local community college.
1. Space Science and Astronomy Courses
Community colleges often offer introductory courses in space science and astronomy. These courses can provide you with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of space exploration. You'll learn about celestial bodies, the history of space exploration, and the latest developments in the field. These courses are an excellent starting point for anyone interested in pursuing a career in space.
2. Aerospace Technology Programs
Some community colleges offer specialized programs in aerospace technology. These programs cover many topics, including spacecraft design, propulsion systems, and mission planning. Students in these programs often have the opportunity to work on hands-on projects, which can be invaluable for gaining practical experience.
3. Robotics and Automation
Space missions often rely on advanced robotics and automation systems. Community colleges may offer courses and programs focused on robotics and automation technology. These can be particularly useful if you're interested in developing robotic systems for space exploration.
4. Computer Science and Engineering
Computers are crucial in modern space exploration, from data analysis to spacecraft control. Community colleges typically offer computer science and engineering programs that can help you develop the technical skills needed for a career in the space industry. These programs cover areas such as programming, data analysis, and software development.
In this video, a student recounts her experience studying computer science at a community college.
5. Internship Opportunities
Many community colleges partner with local space-related organizations and agencies to provide internship opportunities for their students. These internships can give you hands-on experience in a real-world space environment and allow you to network with professionals in the field.
6. Transfer Programs
If you aspire to pursue a bachelor's degree in a space-related field, community colleges often have transfer agreements with four-year universities. This means you can complete your general education requirements and foundational coursework at the community college before transferring to a university to complete your degree in fields like aerospace engineering, astrophysics, or planetary science.
7. Continuing Education
Even if you're not seeking a degree, many community colleges offer continuing education courses related to space and astronomy. These can be a great way to expand your knowledge and stay updated on the latest developments in the field.
In conclusion, community colleges are increasingly becoming hubs for individuals interested in preparing for careers in space. Whether you want to start your educational journey, gain practical experience, or expand your knowledge, numerous options are available at your local community college. The sky is not the limit; it's just the beginning of your journey to explore the vast universe of space-related careers.
Maui Community College (MCC), located in Hawaii, is among the many popular community colleges collaborating with NASA to provide innovative training and education.
At MCC, leaders have created a Space Grant Program funded by a grant from NASA to promote the study of space exploration, including areas of study such as astronomy, engineering, computer science, physics, and additional related courses. Previous space grant projects at MCC have allowed students to engage in astronomical observations using powerful instruments and telescopes. Adding to this, students have also engaged in evaluations of satellite design, robotics, and computer programming concentrations that correlate with astronomical observations.
Like Maui, Houston Community College (HCC), located in Texas, also provides students with an extensive space and astronomy program. According to HCC, astronomy involves the exploration of the universe, the Earth, and other distant galaxies. With this focus, “The mission of the astronomy courses at Houston Community College is to provide quality education and to assist a diverse student body to prepare for careers in various fields involving astronomy, space exploration, and related sciences.”
By participating in space and astronomy studies at HCC, students will engage in courses that evaluate the Solar System, the study of the Sun, the history of Earth, and additional topics. Amidst these studies, students will even be able to more thoroughly understand the evolution of Earth in the universe, helping students, as HCC asserts, better understand their place in the world.
This video offers a look at the space program at the Keck Institute for Space Studies.
Additional Space Studies and Opportunities
In addition to specific programs and courses of study at various community colleges, students can also take advantage of space-related opportunities. Specifically, the Washington Space Grant is a scholarship prospect offered solely to community college students in the state of Washington. This program, supported by NASA, is awarded to promising community college students who are planning on transferring and continuing their education at the University of Washington. To be eligible for the scholarship, students who transfer to the University must continue their intended course of study in a related space area, such as science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. These scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,500, and they are awarded to students for their personal essays, academic performance, and other criteria.
Adding to the many space-based opportunities, community colleges also provide public programs for young kids who are interested in learning more about space and scientific studies. Specifically, many community colleges provide local kids and families access to planetarium shows and lectures. For example, Bellevue Community College, located in Bellevue, Washington, provides the community with many planetarium lessons and events. With 40-minute shows that display a live explanation of the sky’s stars and information and overviews of constellations and planets, students and kids above the age of 5 can be immersed in the darkness to gaze at the beautiful stars projected on the “dome sky.”
Questions? Contact us on Facebook. @communitycollegereview
