Program Aims to Educate Next Generation of the Space Economy

The first of its kind on Earth, the online Master of Science program in air and space law will help students understand how to contribute to the aviation and space industries that are a backbone of the global economy.

"Dependence on the air and space infrastructure is only going to grow as we build drone delivery programs and continue to rely on satellites for communications, earth observation and other critical services," said Michelle Hanlon, director of the university's Center for Air and Space Law.

Focused on the commercial and practical aspects of space law, the program will equip participants to understand how best to employ the capabilities that aviation and space platforms provide.

"Nearly every commercial activity on Earth is already – or soon will be – shaped by drones, satellites and other aviation and space infrastructure," said Fred Slabach, dean of the law school. "This new degree is designed for non-lawyers who want to understand how these laws affect their businesses and careers.

"With this program, Ole Miss law is setting the standard for air and space law education beyond the traditional J.D. and becoming the indispensable partner for professionals driving these rapidly evolving industries."

The online program is supported by a $1.5 million grant from NASA and is open to anyone with a bachelor's degree. A law degree is not required.

"This program isn't designed for one type of student," Hanlon said. "We're intentionally seeking to build a diverse cohort to help shape the next generation of our economy and broaden understanding of how aviation and space platforms support nearly every industry."

Instructors for the courses are world-renowned.

Besides faculty from the law school, students will have opportunities to learn from experts such as Roy Balleste, of Stetson University College of Law, whose rare combination of a doctorate in space cybersecurity and a master's degree in space law places him among the most highly specialized scholars in space governance and security.

This program comes at a time when space is no longer limited to exploration alone; new activities are emerging at a rapid pace. From space burial services offered by private companies to proposals for orbital mirrors and plans by some nations to place nuclear reactors on the moon, the range of activity is expanding quickly.

"As space activity accelerates, there's a growing need for more people to understand – and engage with – the legal and policy questions shaping what comes next," Hanlon said.

To learn more or to apply for the program, click here.

Top: Most countries rely on satellites for communications, earth observation and other critical services, and near-Earth space is getting crowded. The increasing use of space makes it critical that industries and government bodies have attorneys trained in space law. The School of Law is launching an online master's program in air and space law to help meet that demand. Adobe Stock photo