Additional Information
Though the minimum educational requirement to become an astronaut is an
undergraduate degree, experts say it's best to get a PhD in science and technology.
You'll need a security clearance, a squeaky clean history and a proven
track record of hard work and excellence. The supply far outweighs the demand.
Experts recommend you be the best you can be in all your endeavors.
Mission specialist Dr. Ellen Ochoa holds the distinction of being the first
Hispanic woman in space. "There isn't one particular type of work experience
that NASA is looking for. NASA -- like any other employer -- wants to know
how well a person has done. If you come from a research background, they'd
look at published work in technical journals, lecturing or TA [teaching assistant]
experience, and also any awards you may have won. Everyone should have summer
jobs. You need some sort of experience," she says.
The NASA website says astronaut candidates must have a minimum of a bachelor's
degree in engineering, biological science, physical science or mathematics.
Early on, it wasn't known what effect space flight would have on the human
body. Though medical standards have relaxed since then, astronauts must still
be in top physical condition. They must also be U.S. citizens.
Public relations are a big part of an astronaut's duties, so hone those
public speaking skills.
Once applicants are chosen to be astronaut candidates, they must go through
a training and evaluation period that lasts two years. Becoming an astronaut
candidate, however, does not guarantee that they'll become astronauts.