Space Science and Technology (F77) | Open University

Course summary

This qualification explores space science and the underpinning technology. Developed with the UK Space Agency and leading space industry partners, it prepares you for a career or further research in the space sector. You will conduct scientific investigations independently and collaboratively using space-based instrumentation and programming tools, gaining insight into scientific measurement in the space environment and the design of spacecraft systems and instrumentation. Option modules let you tailor your studies across applied mathematics, computing and IT, engineering, environmental management, project management, physical sciences and systems thinking. You will also complete a major research project in space science or technology.

Key features of the course

Develop practical skills in conducting science experiments related to the space environment using remote and space-based data
Explore current debates in space and planetary sciences through the analysis of archived mission data
Develop technical and professional skills aligned to your individual interests and career goals
Undertake an in-depth individual research project in space science or space technology

Entry requirements

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 your first module, 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.

Some option modules have additional entry requirements. We’ll ask you to prove you meet them when you register for any of these modules:

Calculus of variations and advanced calculus (M820)
Nonlinear ordinary differential equations (M821)
Advanced mathematical methods (M833)
Coding theory (M836)
Quantum and statistical mechanics of matter (SM880)

It’s important that you read the entry requirements (found in the individual module descriptions) for any option modules you’re considering before registering.

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.

Additional entry requirements

ATAS Certificate

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

As fees for individual modules can vary, the total cost you pay for your qualification depends on the modules you choose to study. For further information about fees, please refer to the course description on The Open University website.