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Open University in Ireland

Space Science & 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.

Entry requirements

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, email the Science Postgraduate Team.

Duration

2 - 4 years. This qualification can be completed within two years, and up to a maximum of four years of the start of the first module.

Number of credits

120 credits

Careers or further progression

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.

There is more information about how OU study can improve your employability in the OUs Employability Statement from our OU Careers Advisory Service. You can also look at our OU study and your career pages to find out about potential career opportunities related to OU subject areas

Further enquiries

Tel: (01) 678 5399
Fax: (01) 678 5442
Email: ireland@open.ac.uk

Subjects taught

Modules
To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits as follows:

60 credits from the compulsory module:

Compulsory module

Credits Next start
Space science (S818) 60 27 Jan 2018

plus

30 credits from List A:

List A: Optional modules

Credits Next start
Managing technological innovation (T848) 30 01 May 2017
Project management (M815) 30 01 May 2017
Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849) 30 01 May 2017

plus

30 credits from List B:

List B: Optional modules

Credits Next start
Finite element analysis: basic principles and applications (T804) 30 01 Nov 2017
Manufacture materials design (T805) 30 01 May 2017
Software development (M813) 30 01 May 2017
Software engineering (M814) 30 01 Nov 2017

You should note that the Universitys 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.

Comment

On completion
On successful completion of the required modules you will be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Space Science and Technology entitling you to use the letters PG Dip SpST (Open) after your name.

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