University of Colorado Colorado Springs: College of Business

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Space Systems Management (Online)

15 hours (5 classes)

A major challenge facing the military and civil space industries is the ability to develop and manage space-based systems to meet ever increasing demands of greater capabilities and greater integration with ground-based systems. Graduates with a strong business background combined with knowledge of space systems and their development and management are in demand by both public and private sector organizations.

Students pursuing the Space Systems Management emphasis complete 15 semester hours in their area of emphasis beyond Core Courses.

Course Number (Online)

Course Title

SPMG 6190

Systems Engineering Management

SPMG 6290

Information & Communication Systems

SPMG 6390

Space & Space Systems

SPMG 6490

Systems Lifecycle Management

SPMG 6590

Space Policy

Course Descriptions

SPMG 6190 Systems Engineering Management
Introduction to the systems engineering process, project management, and engineering management to include systems engineering methods, lifecycle models, risk management, and trade-off analysis. Course focuses on the role of the systems engineer throughout a project with emphasis on both technical and project management roles. Exercises and/or project used to increase understanding of concepts introduced in course.

SPMG 6290 Information and Communication Systems
This course provides students who will be involved in acquisition and operation of information and communication systems with an introduction to these systems. Topics may include: analog and digital systems, circuits, communication methods with emphasis on satellite communications, communication system components, computer system components, software engineering, embedded systems, networks, and cybersecurity. Emphasis will be on systems used in the space industry. Prerequisite: College-level Physics; or instructor approval.

SPMG 6390 Space and Space Systems
This course is a basic introduction to Astrodynamics and Astronautical Engineering. Topics will include orbital elements, Kepler's Laws, launch, orbit transfer/injection, spacecraft maneuvers, and spacecraft subsystems.  Prerequisites: College-level Algebra, Trigonometry, and Physics; or instructor approval.

SPMG 6490 System Lifecycle Management
This course provides a background in system acquisition, program management, and test and evaluation. Students will study acquisition processes and standards, cost estimating, analysis of alternatives, program planning, program management, risk management, schedule/cost management, quality assurance, pricing and procurement, test and evaluation approaches, measures of effectiveness; and measures of uncertainty and confidence.  Prerequisite: College-level statistics, or instructor approval.

SPMG 6590 Space Policy
This course provides students an overview of space policies and strategies, both domestic and international. The course provides students with a perspective of how these policies and strategies have evolved over time. Emphasis will be on understanding the current national security strategy, the military space-related doctrines, domestic laws and policies, and international laws, treaties, and agreements.

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