In its pursuit to meet the needs of employers and students, Wichita State University has added two certificate programs to its academic lineup. 

Beginning fall semester, graduate students may pursue an 18 credit hour certificate in space sciences. Also beginning in August, undergraduate students may weave a 13 credit hour certificate in environment and sustainability into their plans for a bachelor’s degree, without adding additional hours.

The certificates are meant to help meet market demands in two of the fastest growing job sectors.

The interdisciplinary space sciences certificate is designed for employees in any field of engineering or natural science. The program is the only one of its kind in Kansas.

“This educational opportunity is a leap forward for WSU and the state of Kansas, helping to create a workforce that can respond to the demands of a burgeoning space industry,” Andrew Hippisley, dean of Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, said. “Led by Dr. Nicholas Solomey, a NASA-funded world expert on space sciences, students will take courses that range from plasma physics and space dynamics to the ethics surrounding space exploration.”

The space industry is one of the fastest growing employment sectors. Wichita, given its location and number of aerospace businesses, is uniquely positioned to support this growth. Through a 10-year period from 2014-2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects 8,600 new jobs will have been added for space scientists, astronomers and physicists. Many of these positions will be in the aerospace companies of Wichita.

Students who want to work on the ground and address environmental and sustainability issues can enhance their bachelor’s degree with the environmental and sustainability certificate. By selecting one of four tracks, students will have a better understanding of the social, cultural, political and economic factors that make humanity a more sustainable society. 

“Because of the expertise within Fairmount College and the College of Engineering, students are able to focus on policy considerations, societal implications, the relevant scientific questions, and issues surrounding remediation,” Hippisley said. “The certificate demonstrates that sustainability is a challenge all backgrounds are invited to meet: humanities, social sciences, science and engineering. “

The environmental sector is growing rapidly, especially concerning innovation and research. For a 10 year period from 2016-2026, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 9,900 environmental scientists and specialists positions will have been added to the labor market.

Registration at Wichita State is taking place now. Fall classes begin Aug. 17.

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