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Executive MBA in SpaceTech

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Institute of Space and Applied Technologies

Welcome Message

Welcome to the Executive MBA in SpaceTech.

Space technology is becoming one of the most important interdisciplinary fields of the modern global economy. It connects satellites, artificial intelligence, space law, space economy, media communication, architecture, health technologies, life-support systems, tele-operation, and advanced manufacturing.

This Master study program is designed for learners and professionals who wish to connect applied SpaceTech training with research-based academic development. It provides a structured pathway for students who have completed the seven approved space-related diplomas, as well as for students who wish to apply directly to the full program.

The program combines seven space-related modules, two research-related modules, thesis work, and research activities. Students develop applied knowledge across SpaceTech fields while also strengthening their ability to conduct graduate-level research, prepare academic publications, and complete a thesis on an approved SpaceTech-related topic.

The program is practical, interdisciplinary, and research-oriented. It is suitable for learners who want to build a stronger profile in the fast-growing fields of space technology, space business, space governance, space media, and applied space innovation.

Thomas Meier
Head of the Program

About the Institution

The Autonomous Academy of Higher and Professional Education in Zurich, Switzerland officially established the Institute of Space and Applied Technologies on 01.05.2026. The Institute was created as a forward-looking educational and professional platform dedicated to space studies, applied sciences, emerging technologies, and their practical use in the modern world.

The Autonomous Academy has a strong background in digital and flexible education. It is recognized as one of the pioneering virtual education institutions in Europe, offering virtual learning opportunities since 2013. This long experience in online and distance education gives the Academy a solid foundation to develop modern institutes that respond to the needs of today’s learners, professionals, and international communities.

The Academy is part of VBNN Smart Education Group and the Swiss International University network, which strengthens its international academic environment and connects it with a wider educational ecosystem. Swiss International University has been recognized in international rankings, including being ranked No. 3 worldwide by QRNW among international institutions and No. 22 by QS for Executive Education, reflecting the growing global profile of the network and its commitment to quality, innovation, and international education.

As part of VBNN Smart Education Group, the Academy benefits from an international education environment that supports innovation, digital learning, and career-relevant study pathways. Its programs are designed to combine structured learning with practical application, helping participants develop knowledge, confidence, and skills that can be used in professional, technical, administrative, and service-oriented contexts.

The Institute of Space and Applied Technologies was established to address the increasing importance of space-related knowledge in today’s economy and society. Space technologies are now connected to many fields, including satellite communication, navigation systems, climate monitoring, environmental protection, artificial intelligence, remote sensing, data science, smart cities, logistics, security, and sustainable development. This means that space is no longer only a scientific field for astronauts or large space agencies; it has become an applied sector that influences daily life, business, research, and global innovation.

Through this Institute, the Autonomous Academy aims to provide learners, professionals, and institutions with access to knowledge that links scientific understanding with real-world applications. The Institute supports interdisciplinary learning by connecting space science with applied technology, digital transformation, engineering concepts, data analysis, sustainability, and innovation management.

The Institute also reflects the Academy’s mission to make high-quality virtual education accessible to learners across borders. By combining Swiss educational values, international cooperation, and modern online learning methods, the Institute of Space and Applied Technologies seeks to prepare individuals for future-oriented sectors where technology, science, and practical problem-solving meet.

As part of the Autonomous Academy’s wider vision, the Institute will contribute to professional development, lifelong learning, research awareness, and global knowledge exchange. Its establishment on 01.05.2026 represents a new step in building educational pathways that help learners understand the technologies shaping the future of Earth, space, and society.

The Academy places strong emphasis on quality, learner support, and international accessibility. Through online lectures, guided learning, workshops, seminars, and specialized training opportunities, it seeks to create an educational experience that is flexible, focused, and relevant to today’s changing world.

About the Diploma Program

The Executive MBA in SpaceTech is a Master study program for learners who wish to combine applied SpaceTech knowledge with research-based academic development. The program is designed around two possible pathways.

The first pathway is for students who have already completed the seven approved space-related diplomas. These diplomas form the applied module component of the program. Such students continue with two research-related modules, thesis work, and research activities.

The second pathway is for students who apply directly to the full program. These students complete the full structure, including the seven space-related modules, two research-related modules, thesis work, and research activities.

The program supports learners in developing interdisciplinary knowledge across space technology, satellite manufacturing, space architecture, space life-support, space law, space economy, space media, and AI-related SpaceTech applications, while also strengthening graduate-level research and academic writing skills.

The program is not designed as a professional engineering license, legal practice license, medical authorization, financial advisory license, or regulated professional qualification. It is a Master study program focused on applied knowledge, management understanding, and research-based academic development in SpaceTech.

Duration of Study

12+1 weeks.

The program includes 12 main study weeks plus Week 13 for final review and evaluation.

Language of Instruction

English

Why Choose This Diploma?

The Training Diploma in Space Economy is designed for learners who want a focused introduction to one of the most dynamic areas of future business and technology. The space economy connects satellites, data services, launch markets, AI, investment, exploration, lunar development, digital platforms, and international cooperation.

This diploma offers a practical starting point for participants who wish to understand how space-related products, services, infrastructure, and investments are shaped in a fast-growing global sector.

Participants may choose this diploma because it offers:

  • A focused introduction to the space economy and commercial space development

  • A compact study structure over 13 weeks

  • A combination of online lectures and interactive metaverse workshops

  • Exposure to satellite communications, Earth observation, launch services, AI, deep-space resources, lunar business models, and metaverse platforms

  • Introductory understanding of upstream and downstream space sectors, investment opportunities, public-private partnerships, and commercial strategy

  • Awareness of sustainability, space debris, regulation, cybersecurity, data privacy, and responsible commercialization

  • A suitable foundation for entrepreneurs, investors, business developers, policymakers, students, and professionals interested in space markets

  • Practical discussion of future trends in lunar economy, space tourism, virtual space platforms, digital twins, and venture investment

This program is especially valuable for learners who want to explore the space economy sector before continuing to more advanced technical, academic, business, policy, or professional pathways.

Who Is This Diploma For?

This Master study program is suitable for learners and professionals who wish to combine applied SpaceTech knowledge with management, research, and interdisciplinary development.

  • Graduates of the seven approved space-related diplomas who wish to continue into a Master study program.

  • Professionals interested in SpaceTech management, business, law, media, technology, innovation, or policy.

  • Learners interested in satellite manufacturing, SpaceTech operations, lunar development, AI in space, space economy, space communication, and applied space systems.

  • Entrepreneurs, managers, educators, researchers, policy professionals, and technical professionals interested in the space sector.

  • Career changers who want a structured academic pathway into SpaceTech-related fields.

  • Students who wish to develop thesis writing, research methods, statistical analysis, and publication-oriented academic skills.

Admission Requirements

Applicants are generally expected to meet one of the following:

  • Completion of the seven approved space-related diplomas, or

  • A recognized Bachelor-level qualification or equivalent professional background, or

  • Relevant professional, technical, business, policy, legal, media, scientific, or administrative experience, or

  • Demonstrated interest in SpaceTech, applied space technology, innovation, research, management, or related fields.

Applicants from different educational or professional backgrounds may also be considered on the basis of motivation, relevant experience, and academic suitability. Specific admission decisions remain subject to institutional review.

Required Documents

Applicants may be required to submit the following documents:

•            Completed application form

•            Copy of passport or national ID

•            Recent personal photograph

•            Copy of highest educational certificate, if available

•            CV or short professional profile

•            Short motivation statement

•            Proof of payment of the application fee

•            Any additional documents requested by the admissions office

Applicants should ensure that all submitted documents are clear, accurate, and valid.

Program Structure

This Master study program includes modules, thesis work, and research activities.

The structure includes:

  • 7 space-related modules, represented by the seven completed training diplomas

  • 2 research-related modules

  • Thesis and research activities

Students complete research-based academic work, including thesis preparation, academic writing, research development, and publication-oriented activities.

As part of the research activities, students are expected to prepare and complete two journal publications according to the institution’s academic and publication criteria. These publications should be connected to the student’s research area, SpaceTech specialization, thesis topic, or an approved applied research theme.

The program is designed for learners who wish to connect applied SpaceTech training with research-based academic development at Master level.

Research-Related Modules

The program includes two research-related modules that support the thesis and publication-oriented research activities.

Module 1: Advanced Scientific Research Methodologies for Graduate Studies

This module develops the ability to design, conduct, analyze, and communicate graduate-level research. It introduces traditional and contemporary research methodologies, qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods design, data collection, data analysis, citation systems, literature review, research gaps, and academic reporting.

Indicative module areas include:

  • Advanced Introduction to Scientific Research

  • Advanced Research Design

  • Advanced Data Collection

  • Advanced Data Analysis

  • Documentation and Reference Management

  • Research Literature Review

  • Scientific Research Using Modern Technology

  • Applied and Methodological Research

Module 2: Advanced Statistical Analysis: From Classical Models to Computational Methods

This module supports students in understanding and applying advanced statistical analysis for graduate-level research. It introduces classical and computational methods, statistical modeling, factor analysis, PCA, logistic regression, generalized linear models, data preparation, interpretation of outputs, and academic reporting of statistical results.

Indicative module areas include:

  • Factor Analysis and Principal Component Analysis (PCA)

  • Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis

  • Model Fit, Assumptions, and Interpretation

  • Logistic Regression and Generalized Linear Models

  • Statistical Software Awareness, including R, Python, SPSS, or similar tools

  • Data Visualization and Academic Presentation of Results

  • Applied Statistical Analysis for Business, Social, Medical, and SpaceTech-Related Research

  • Writing and Reporting Statistical Results for Research Papers and Theses

Thesis and Research Activities

Students are required to complete thesis work and research activities as part of the Executive MBA in SpaceTech.

The thesis allows students to investigate an approved SpaceTech-related topic using appropriate research methods, academic writing, data analysis, literature review, and structured argumentation.

Research activities include:

  • Research topic development

  • Literature review and research gap identification

  • Research proposal preparation

  • Data collection or applied analysis, where relevant

  • Academic writing and revision

  • Research supervision or academic guidance

  • Thesis preparation and final submission

  • Publications of two journal articles according to the institution’s academic and publication criteria

 

Research topics may be related to:

  • SpaceTech management

  • Satellite manufacturing and CubeSat systems

  • Space economy and commercial space development

  • Space law and policy

  • Space media and communication

  • Space architecture and habitat design

  • Space life-support and tele-operation systems

  • AI applications in space-related fields

  • AI and healthcare services in future digital and space-related environments

  • Other approved SpaceTech-related research themes

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, students are expected to be able to:

  • Integrate applied knowledge from the seven space-related modules into a broader SpaceTech management and research perspective.

  • Explain key concepts in satellite manufacturing, space architecture, space life-support, space law, space economy, space media, and AI-related applications.

  • Analyze SpaceTech challenges from interdisciplinary business, technical, legal, communication, and policy perspectives.

  • Design a graduate-level research proposal connected to an approved SpaceTech-related topic.

  • Apply appropriate research methodologies, literature review techniques, citation systems, and academic writing standards.

  • Use introductory advanced statistical analysis concepts to support research interpretation and evidence-based conclusions.

  • Prepare thesis work that demonstrates structured analysis, research reasoning, and academic communication.

  • Prepare and complete two journal publications according to the institution’s academic and publication criteria.

  • Reflect on ethical, legal, sustainability, technological, and management issues connected to modern space activities.

  • Develop a foundation for further academic, professional, or research-oriented exploration in SpaceTech and applied space innovation.

Program Objectives

  • Provide a structured Master-level pathway connecting seven applied SpaceTech modules with research-based academic work.

  • Strengthen interdisciplinary understanding of space technology, space business, space law, space media, satellite systems, space architecture, and human-centered space technologies.

  • Develop student capacity in scientific research methodologies, literature review, research design, data collection, and academic reporting.

  • Introduce advanced statistical analysis concepts that support thesis work and publication-oriented research.

  • Support students in preparing a thesis and two journal publications according to institutional academic and publication criteria.

  • Encourage responsible thinking about ethics, sustainability, governance, innovation, commercialization, and human impact in the space sector.

  • Prepare students for further study or professional development in SpaceTech, innovation management, research, policy, entrepreneurship, education, and applied space fields.

Skills You Will Develop

  • Interdisciplinary SpaceTech analysis

  • Applied research planning and proposal development

  • Literature review and research gap identification

  • Academic writing and publication-oriented communication

  • Basic advanced statistical reasoning and interpretation

  • Thesis development and structured argumentation

  • SpaceTech management and innovation awareness

  • Policy, legal, business, media, and technical awareness in the space sector

  • Critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making

  • Research presentation and academic defense skills

  • Responsible use of digital tools and artificial intelligence in research

The program helps students build a foundation for future learning and professional development rather than independent regulated practice in law, medicine, engineering, finance, aerospace operations, or other licensed professions.

Teaching and Learning Method

The program uses a combination of online learning, guided research activities, research-related modules, independent study, academic writing tasks, thesis development, and publication-oriented work.

  • Online lectures or guided module learning

  • Research methodology activities

  • Statistical analysis awareness and applied interpretation

  • Literature review development

  • Research proposal preparation

  • Academic writing and revision

  • Thesis guidance and feedback

  • Publication-oriented research activities

  • Final thesis submission and evaluation

Student Support

  • Orientation before the start of the program

  • Academic and administrative guidance

  • Access to relevant online learning materials, where available

  • Guidance on research topic selection

  • Research proposal guidance

  • Feedback on research writing and thesis development

  • General guidance regarding journal publication activities according to institutional criteria

  • Technical and administrative support where available

Students are encouraged to communicate with the program team if they need clarification, guidance, or support during their studies.

Code of Conduct

All students are expected to behave professionally and respectfully.

  • Respect trainers, supervisors, staff, and other learners

  • Communicate politely during online sessions and academic discussions

  • Avoid disruptive behavior

  • Respect different educational, professional, and cultural backgrounds

  • Follow academic honesty rules

  • Use online platforms responsibly

  • Keep shared materials confidential where required

  • Respect academic, research, publication, and ethical standards

Professional behavior is especially important in research, management, technology, policy, and academic environments, where responsibility, accuracy, fairness, documentation, and communication are essential.

Academic Integrity

Students must submit their own work and must not copy from other learners, websites, books, artificial intelligence tools, articles, or other sources without proper acknowledgement.

  • Plagiarism

  • Submitting copied work

  • Using another person’s work as your own

  • Fabricating data or references

  • Misusing artificial intelligence tools

  • Providing false documents

  • Cheating in assessments

  • Misrepresenting academic, professional, research, or publication experience

Academic integrity applies to all modules, thesis work, research activities, and journal publications.

Assessment

Assessment may include module participation, assignments, research tasks, academic writing outputs, research proposal development, statistical interpretation activities, thesis submission, publication-oriented work, and final evaluation.

The final stage of the program may include review, discussion, reflection, thesis evaluation, and confirmation that the research activity requirements have been completed according to institutional criteria.

Certificate / Diploma Awarded

Participants who successfully complete the program requirements may receive a:

Executive MBA in SpaceTech

Tuition Fees

Students may enter the Executive MBA in SpaceTech through one of the following pathways:

Advanced Standing Pathway

For students who have already successfully completed the seven approved space-related diplomas. These students proceed to the two research-related modules, thesis work, and research activities. 6 months: EUR 19,900

Full Program Pathway

For students who apply directly to the full Master study program and pay in advance. These students complete the seven space-related modules, the two research-related modules, thesis work, and research activities. 9 months: EUR 49,900

 

The following mandatory fees apply to all students:

Application Fee: EUR 300

Exam administration fee: EUR 110

E-Certificate Fee: EUR 100

Thesis defense: EUR 990

Online payment: Additional 4%

Optional Services and Training

Optional services and training may be available for an additional fee, including:

•            Printed certificate, available upon request for additional fee

•            Legalization services, available upon request for additional fee

•            Courier delivery, where available

•            Additional document services

•            Specialized simulation or practical training opportunities, subject to availability

•            Extra academic or administrative services

•            Individual evaluation or sessions

•            Program extension (extra period)

Optional services are not included in the standard mandatory fee package unless specifically stated in writing.

Career Opportunities

This Master study program may support students who wish to explore future opportunities in SpaceTech management, applied space technology, space business, research, innovation, policy, governance, education, media, entrepreneurship, or related fields.

Because the program connects applied SpaceTech modules with research activities, thesis work, and publication-oriented academic development, it may help students strengthen their profile and increase their chances of being considered for related professional, research-support, management, academic, policy, business-development, innovation, or space-sector opportunities when compared with applicants who do not have relevant SpaceTech and research-based preparation.

Possible areas of interest after completion may include:

  • SpaceTech management and innovation support

  • Satellite and CubeSat project support awareness

  • Space economy and commercial space development

  • Space law and policy support awareness

  • Space media and communication strategy

  • Space architecture and habitat design awareness

  • Space life-support and tele-operation support awareness

  • AI and digital systems in space-related contexts

  • Research, academic writing, and publication-oriented work

  • Further study in SpaceTech, innovation management, policy, business, or applied space technology

This Executive program does not guarantee employment, professional licensing, legal authorization, medical authorization, engineering authorization, financial advisory authorization, aerospace licensing, or independent regulated professional practice.

Attendance Requirements

Students are expected to participate in the scheduled learning, research, and academic activities.

A minimum attendance or participation requirement may apply according to the delivery model. Students who miss required sessions or fail to complete required academic tasks may be asked to complete additional work for an additional fee or may not be eligible for final completion.

Participation is important because the program includes structured research, thesis, and publication-related components.

Important Notes About Optional Services

Optional services are not included in the standard mandatory fee package unless specifically stated in writing.

Optional services may include:

  • Printed certificate

  • Courier delivery

  • Legalization services

  • Additional document services

  • Specialized simulation or practical training opportunities

  • Extra academic or administrative services

  • Program extension (extra period)

Fees for optional services may vary depending on the request, country, timeline, and external service requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this program suitable for students who already completed the seven diplomas?

Yes. Students who have already completed the seven approved space-related diplomas may continue through the advanced standing pathway. Their remaining study duration is 6 months and focuses on the two research-related modules, thesis work, and research activities.

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Can a student apply directly to the full program?

Yes. Students may apply directly to the full program. The full program pathway includes the seven space-related modules, two research-related modules, thesis work, and research activities. The standard duration is 9 months.

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What is the fee for students who already completed the seven diplomas?

The fee for students who have already completed the seven approved space-related diplomas is EUR 19,900.

​

What is the fee for students applying directly to the full program?

The full program fee for students applying directly and paying in advance is EUR 49,900.

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What are the seven space-related modules?

The seven modules are the approved training diplomas in Skills for Satellite Manufacturing, Space Architectural Design, Space Life-Support Systems & Tele-Operation Techniques, Space Law, Space Economy, Space Media, and AI and Healthcare Services.

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What are the two research-related modules?

The two research-related modules are Advanced Scientific Research Methodologies for Graduate Studies and Advanced Statistical Analysis: From Classical Models to Computational Methods.

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Are journal publications required?

Yes. As part of the research activities, students are expected to prepare and complete two journal publications according to the institution’s academic and publication criteria. The publications should be related to the student’s research area, SpaceTech specialization, thesis topic, or an approved applied research theme.

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Is there a thesis?

Yes. Students complete thesis work on an approved SpaceTech-related topic. The thesis is part of the research-based academic work of the program.

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Does the program guarantee employment?

No. The program does not guarantee employment. However, it may help students strengthen their profile and demonstrate applied SpaceTech knowledge, research ability, and academic writing experience.

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Does this program provide professional licensing?

No. The program does not provide legal practice authorization, medical authorization, engineering authorization, financial advisory authorization, aerospace licensing, or any regulated professional license. It is a Master study program focused on SpaceTech knowledge, management understanding, and research-based academic development.

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Can international students apply?

Yes. International applicants may apply if they meet the admission requirements and can participate in the online and research-based format.

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