MSc

Space Engineering

Key Facts

Course Code FH57

  • Qualification

    MSc

  • Course duration

    1 year

Available for September start 2025

Apply Now

The MSc in Space Engineering at Aberystwyth University is the perfect choice for graduates with a first degree in a STEM subject who wish to develop knowledge and skills relevant to Space Exploration. You will be taught by experts in Space Science and Technology and will be given the opportunity to undertake project work alongside active researchers who are members of international teams and space missions studying the Sun, the Moon, planets and exoplanets. 

In the UK the space sector aims to achieve a 10% share of the estimated £400 billion per annum global space market by 2030, and here in Wales, the target is a 5% market share (Wales: A Sustainable Space Nation, 2022). As such there is an ongoing need for suitably qualified and technically competent engineering graduates within the space and allied sectors. Designed to meet the needs of students pursuing a career in research as well as those seeking to expand their professional skills for a career in industry, this course will prepare you for a successful career in the UK and international space agencies, defence sectors and allied fields.  

Typical Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2:2 Bachelors (Honours) degree in a relevant subject area or equivalent. Non-graduates will be considered individually based on relevant work experience.

Back to the top

Course Overview

An MSc in Space Engineering will give you the opportunity to tackle the challenges of Space Exploration. You will undertake project work alongside active researchers whose global reach makes this a truly international course that crosses continents. Staff expertise in modelling, visualisation, ground-based experimentation and space instrumentation (with specialisms in photonics and robotics) are also core features of this exciting new course that brings together a wealth of knowledge and experience that cuts across science, technology, engineering, mathematics and business at the University. 

The range of modules available provides you with a fundamental knowledge of the Solar System and beyond and an appreciation of the technology and skills required to explore extra-terrestrial space, including design, observation, measurement, analysis, communication and project management.  

Aberystwyth researchers are at the forefront of space exploration, with involvement in missions from the Sun to Saturn, and now even beyond with our exoplanet research. With strategic relationships with the UK Space Agency and international space agencies, such as the European Space Agency, we are well placed in the sector for involvement in future space exploration missions and to provide industry contacts for our students.  

About this course

Degree type: MSc 

Course code: FH57

Contact time: Approximately 10-14 hours a week in the first two semesters, then mutually agreed contact time with assigned supervisor. 

Modules September start - 2025

Please note: The modules listed below are those currently intended for delivery during the next academic year and may be subject to change. They are included here to give an indication of how the course is structured.

* Also available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh

Careers

On completion of this course you will have gained advanced knowledge and understanding of space engineering and space exploration with additional skills in research, critical analysis and the interpretation of data, problem solving, report writing and delivering presentations. 

Graduates of this degree will be well placed for employment as engineers, consultants, mangers or researchers in the space sector and space industries.  

Teaching & Learning

Core modules that you may study on this course include: 

  • Advanced Planetary Exploration  
  • Advanced Research Skills  
  • Professional and Research Skills 
  • MSc Project. 

You will also study optional modules from a selection available, which currently include: 

  • EM Theory & Microwave Devices  
  • Fundamentals of Intelligent Systems  
  • Quality & Engineering Management 
  • Project Management Tools and Techniques 
  • Programming for Scientists 
  • International Strategy and Operations 
  • Leading and Managing Projects 
  • Machine Learning for Intelligent Systems  
  • Computational Intelligence. 

 Modes of teaching  

The MSc Space Engineering degree is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, projects and practical workshops.  

During the first two semesters (September to May), you will normally have one two-hour seminar per module per week. There will also be additional sessions working towards developing your project. During semester three you will receive support from your assigned project supervisor; contact time will be by mutual agreement.  

 Methods of assessment  

The course is assessed by workshop exercises, examples, technical reports, formal reports, presentations and examinations.