Master of Science in Strategy (Space Operations)
Academic Associate
James (Clay) Moltz, Ph.D.
Code 38, Glasgow Hall Room 394
(831) 656-1039, DSN 756-1039
jcmoltz@nps.edu
Overview
This inter-disciplinary degree of curriculum 688 provides officers with social science expertise in policy and strategy combined with technical knowledge in space science and military space applications. The MS in Strategy (Space Operations) is pedagogically innovative, focusing on the Navy’s S&T objectives and on Great Power Competition. The degree is available for U.S. military students as well as for international students and U.S. civilians.
APC
The minimum APC requirement for entry to this degree program is 244.
Convenes
Fall
Program Length
12 months
Degree
Master of Science in Strategy (Space Operations)
Subspecialty
Navy P-Codes: 2301
Curriculum Requirements
U.S. Military students (with secret-level or higher clearance only) must complete the following:
| NS3005 | Great Power Conflict in Modern History | | 4 | 0 |
| NS3011 | Research and Writing for National Security Affairs | | 4 | 0 |
| NS3024 | Introduction to International Relations | | 4 | 0 |
| NS4000 | Great Power Competition: Current Policy and Strategy | | 0 | 2 |
| NS4253 | Seminar on Technology and Strategic Planning | | 4 | 0 |
| NS4677 | Space and International Security | | 4 | 0 |
| NS4990 | Seminar in Strategic Studies | | 4 | 0 |
| SS3011 | Space Technology and Applications | | 3 | 0 |
| SS3051 | Military Applications of DoD and Commercial Space Systems | | 3 | 2 |
| SS3613 | Military Satellite Communications | | 3 | 0 |
| PH3052 | Physics of Space and Airborne Sensor Systems | | 4 | 0 |
Three electives from courses approved by the sponsor.
Three courses associated with the degree must be at the 4000 level.
Thesis-Related Courses - Required
NS0810 must be taken twice.
Four JPME courses taught by the Naval War College satellite program may be added with a 5th quarter
| NW3230 | Strategy & War | | 4 | 2 |
| NW3275 | Joint Maritime Operations - part 1 | | 4 | 0 |
| NW3276 | Joint Maritime Operations - part 2 | | 2 | 2 |
| NW3285 | Theater Security Decision Making | | 4 | 0 |
International and US civilian students must complete the following:
| NS3005 | Great Power Conflict in Modern History | | 4 | 0 |
| NS3011 | Research and Writing for National Security Affairs | | 4 | 0 |
| NS3024 | Introduction to International Relations | | 4 | 0 |
| NS4253 | Seminar on Technology and Strategic Planning | | 4 | 0 |
| NS4677 | Space and International Security | | 4 | 0 |
| NS4990 | Seminar in Strategic Studies | | 4 | 0 |
| SS3011 | Space Technology and Applications | | 3 | 0 |
| SS3610 | Space Communications Systems: Fundamentals and Analysis | | 4 | 2 |
| PH2514 | Introduction to the Space Environment | | 4 | 0 |
| PH3052 | Physics of Space and Airborne Sensor Systems | | 4 | 0 |
Three electives from courses approved by the sponsor.
Three courses associated with the degree must be at the 4000 level.
Thesis-Related Courses - Required
NS0810 must be taken twice.
Educational Skill Requirements (ESR)
- Understand the basic physics of orbital mechanics and the space environment.
- Demonstrate an ability to examine the design of orbits and constellations and explain how spacecraft maneuver and transfer to other orbits.
- Understand critical space technologies and the military uses of space, as well as the role of commercial space systems.
- Demonstrate a knowledge of military satellite communications, systems design, and applications, including terminal design, telemetry control, and IO/IW implications.
- Understand joint space doctrine and the role of space in force enhancement, including for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, missile tracking, launch detection, environmental monitoring, and position, navigation, and timing.
- Demonstrate a knowledge of the fundamental principles and theories of international relations.
- Understand the history and current dynamics of Great Power Competition and its linkages to U.S. national strategy.
- Demonstrate an ability to analyze national security space challenges as affected by international space politics, law, and treaties.
- Understand the interaction between technology and strategic planning, as well as adaptation in military organizations.