Space Science

Designed for those with an academic or professional interest in space science, this qualification provides students with a wide-ranging overview of scientific measurement in the space environment, and will equip students with the skills required to carry out scientific investigations using space-based instrumentation, both individually and as a team.

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 60 credits as follows:



Module/Credits

• Space science (S818) 60



You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 20 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.

You should typically have:

• a UK honours degree (or equivalent) in physics, astronomy, geosciences, chemistry, engineering or mathematics.



We’ll ask you to prove you have this when you register for Space science (S818). We will, however, consider applications from non-graduates with other relevant qualifications or experience.



We don’t require you to have previously studied space science or astronomy.



You can check if you’re ready for S818 with our self-assessed diagnostic – Are you ready for S818?



We recommend you have minimum IELTS (International English Language Testing System) scores of:

• Reading: 5.5

• Writing: 5.5

• Speaking: 5.5

• Listening: 5.5

• Overall: 6.0.



Our free course, Succeeding in postgraduate study, helps you develop the skills and confidence to manage the requirements and demands of postgraduate study.

1 year part-time study.



How long it takes

Most students study the Postgraduate Certificate in Space Science part-time, completing 60 credits over one year. Typically, this means 18 study hours each week.



You must complete the Postgraduate Certificate in Space Science within two years.

See Course Web Page link for next start date.

Career relevance

This qualification is directly relevant to scientific and technical careers in the space sector. It is particularly relevant to roles that are concerned with acquisition, handing and interpretation of data obtained by space-based instrumentation.