Space Science & Technology

Postgraduate Diploma in Space Science and Technology
This postgraduate qualification is designed for those with an academic or professional interest in space science and the technology that underpins this discipline. It equips students with the skills to carry out scientific investigations using space-based instrumentation, both individually and as a team. Students learn how to use a programming language in support of space science applications and develop other skills that are highly relevant to employment in the space sector.

Key features of the course
• Develops skills in conducting science in the space environment through the use of robotic experiments
• Explores current debates in space and planetary sciences using data from space missions
• Develops technical and professional skills according to individual needs and interests.

Modules
To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits as follows:
60 credits from:
Module
• Space science (S818) 60
Next start: 28 Jan 2023

30 credits from:
Module
• Project management (M815) 30
Next start: 01 May 2022
• Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849) 30
Next start: 01 May 2022
• Technology innovation management (TB801) 30
Next start: 01 May 2022

Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued module T848

30 credits from:
Module
• Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804) 30
Next start: 01 Nov 2022 FINAL
• Manufacture materials design (T805) 30
Next start: 01 May 2022
• Software development (M813) 30
Next start: 01 May 2022
• Software engineering (M814) 30
Next start: 01 Nov 2022

You should note that the University's unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 40 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.

Entry to this qualification will typically require a minimum of an honours degree (or equivalent qualification) in one of: physics, astronomy, geosciences, chemistry, engineering or mathematics. Space science (S818) should be studied as the first module in the qualification. Any prior entry requirements (pre-requisites) on constituent optional modules will need to be met separately, where these may apply. For further advice, contact us.

2 - 4 years.

How long it takes
This qualification can be completed within two years, and up to a maximum of four years of the start of the first module.

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, handling and interpretation of data obtained by space-based instrumentation.

Careers and Employability Services have more information on how OU study can improve your employability.