Space Systems Engineering (MSc)

    Space Systems Engineering (MSc)

    Duration1 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    GBP 47,254 / Year
    Next IntakeSeptember 1, 2026
    Space Systems Engineering (MSc)

    About

    Develop your expertise in spacecraft engineering on this MSc Space Systems Engineering course, unique to the University of Southampton. Developed by world-class experts from our Astronautics Research Group and endorsed by the UK Space Agency, it will give you the skills and knowledge to pursue further specialism, whether you’re a recent engineering, science or maths graduate or already working in the aerospace industry.

    On this master's degree you'll gain a detailed overview of how to design a total space system. You’ll learn how the various component subsystems function and integrate with one another, and gain advanced knowledge of space systems engineering.

    Drawing on content from the professional courses we run for the European Space Agency and spacecraft industry, this master's course is ideal for both graduates and those who already have some professional experience of astronautics or aerospace engineering.

    The degree has a strong practical focus. You’ll take part in individual and group design projects as well as conducting your own critical research project, allowing you to develop your expertise in spacecraft engineering.

    You’ll be able to put theory into practice with the help of world-class facilities such as our spacecraft propulsion laboratory, autonomous systems test bed and shaker table.

    We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.

    Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

    Course lead

    Your course leader is Dr Zhiwei Hu, Reginald Platt Lecturer in Civil Aviation within Engineering and Physical Sciences. His research interests include turbulence simulations, computational fluid dynamics and high-speed train aerodynamics. Visit Dr Hu's staff profile to read more about his work.

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    English Program Requirements

    If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:

    IELTS score requirements

    overall score
    6.5
    reading
    6.0
    writing
    6.0
    speaking
    6.0
    listening
    6.0
    We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.

    Career

    Careers

    Endorsed by the UK Space Agency, this course has a strong industry reputation and will equip astronautics and aerospace engineering professionals for further specialisation in spacecraft engineering.

    Roles you'll be qualified for include spacecraft systems engineer and aerospace software engineer. Our graduates have gone on to work at organisations including:

    • Airbus
    • Canadian Space Agency
    • GMV
    • Rutherford Appleton Laboratory

    You’ll also be in the perfect position to continue your studies at PhD level.

    Careers services at Southampton

    We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

    • work experience schemes
    • CV/resume and interview skills workshops
    • networking events
    • careers fairs attended by top employers
    • a wealth of volunteering opportunities
    • study abroad and summer school opportunities

    We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee
    47,254 / year
    Space Systems Engineering (MSc)
    University of Southampton
    University of Southampton
    United Kingdom

    United Kingdom, Southampton