Want to help design a spacecraft or take part in a space mission? Push the boundaries of space exploration with our Space Engineering MSc. You could play a role in helping us explore further than ever before. On our course you’ll learn advanced concepts of spacecraft engineering ready for a career in this hugely exciting sector.
Our MSc programme prioritises high-quality teaching and learning, emphasising inquiry-based and independent study methods. This approach ensures that our graduates are equipped to become high-calibre professionals, with the skills needed to thrive in technical roles within the space industry.
Accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer.
Watch the video Transcript Title: Why Study MSc Space Engineering? | University of Birmingham Duration: 1:14
Catherine: I'm Catherine and I'm studying Space Engineering at the University of Birmingham.
I chose to study at Birmingham because the academic staff here have extensive industry experience at places like NASA and ESA.
In my undergraduate course, which was Aerospace Engineering, I had a couple of modules on space which I found really, really interesting.
So, when I moved into my Master's degree, I wanted to focus on that, which is why I wanted to do a dedicated Space Engineering degree.
I've really enjoyed the wide array of topics that are covered in the modules, from the physics of space to design aspects, to even the ethics of the space industry.
The CubeSat design module in which you get practical experience in an actual CubeSat lab, either disassembling or reassembling it.
You will benefit from the research project, which is about a three-month project, as that will provide research experience to go into doing things like a PhD or academia eventually.
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly postgraduate students to get their thoughts on our courses, stunning campus and life in a vibrant and cultural city.
Course structure Autumn term During this term you'll master fundamental engineering and physical principles for space missions and spacecraft design and cover core modules that meet Royal Aeronautical Society MSc accreditation standards. Towards the end of the term, you'll choose optional modules and rank your project choices
In this term you'll choose from specialised optional modules, including CubeSat design and satellite communications. Some modules are required in order to undertake your specific research projects in term 3, and you'll begin meeting with your supervisor for your summer research project. Exams typically take place from the first week of May to the first week of June.
The summer is dedicated to your research project. you'll work closely with an academic supervisor on a live research project.
This could be experimental and lab based, theoretical and literature based, involve modelling, or be a mixture of all three elements.
You should expect to finish your project by the end of August with marks and feedback delivered in September.
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To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
If you are unsure if you meet our entry requirements, you can also contact the admissions department to discuss whether your application would be considered.
English language requirements If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.