UCF announced Wednesday that applications for its new online space MBA will open March 1, with the first cohort scheduled to begin in spring 2027.
University leaders shared details about the professional MBA in space commercialization during a webinar that outlined admissions requirements, curriculum structure and the program’s goals.
The 24-month, part-time program will be delivered fully online and is housed in the College of Business.
Greg Autry, associate provost for space commercialization and strategy, said the program was developed in response to growing demand for specialized MBA degrees and the university’s position in the space sector.
“Demand for specialty MBAs has increased recently, and it was clear that UCF has a sustainable competitive advantage in the space world,” Autry said.
Autry also pointed to Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Management, where a similar program drew requests for an online option from prospective students.
Autry said the timing reflects broader trends in the industry.
“The space economy, particularly here in Florida, is booming,” he said. “Government space expenditures are increasing globally. Private investment is booming. Employment is booming. Business finance, accounting and project management skills are clearly needed.”
The program combines the College of Business’ professional MBA curriculum with space-specific electives and industry integration.
“This is the full professional MBA curriculum,” Autry said. “In addition to that, we add a unique set of space-specific electives and embed the space context into all the classes — case studies , data sets and guest speakers from the industry.”
Autry said graduates are expected to move into management and leadership roles within traditional aerospace firms, new space companies and civil space programs. He added that the degree could also support advancement for military officers, including Space Force guardians transitioning to the private sector.
The program is primarily aimed at engineers and scientists moving into management roles, as well as professionals seeking to enter the space industry from other sectors.
“The only prerequisites are intelligence, determination, passion and a bachelor’s degree with decent grades,” Autry said.
University officials said the fully online program, which allows students to complete coursework on their own schedule rather than attend live classes, was developed in part at the request of Space Force partners and reflects modern workforce demands.
“It makes sense given the way people travel and work in today’s global economy,” Autry said.
Argelis Isabel Vasquez, a prospective applicant who attended the webinar, said the program’s focus on commercialization aligns with her long-standing interest in space.
“I have always been interested in space and space operations,” Vasquez said. “When I saw this MBA concentrating in space, I had to find out more about it.”
Vasquez said she hopes to work on projects involving human spaceflight or space resource development and believes commercialization requires responsible leadership.
“If we are going to have a huge environmental footprint, and anything launch-related has it, the least we can do is ensure it is worth it scientifically or financially,” she said.
Applications are set to launch March 1, and the first group of students will begin classes in spring 2027.