BSc Space Science and Robotics

From the very start, you’ll be building real-world skills through hands‑on labs, cutting‑edge programming modules, and active research in space robotics. You’ll tackle real instrumentation challenges, write embedded code, and collaborate on interdisciplinary projects that mirror what space agencies and industries demand.

Here’s how your practical learning is structured:

Specialist facilities & digital tools:

• Work with state‑of‑the‑art laboratories in the Department of Computer Science and Physics, equipped for embedded systems, optics, and space robotics.

• Learn programming from scratch with Introduction to Programming, Object‑Oriented, C & C++, and Scientific Python modules, progressing to robotics‑embedded systems.

Research-led projects & instrumentation-focused modules:

• In your final year, you’ll complete a 40‑credit major project, often working with Aberystwyth’s Intelligent Robotics Group on topics like space exploration robotics or planetary instrument systems.

• Core modules include Robotics and Embedded Systems, Space Robotics, Planetary Atmospheres, Sensors, Electronics & Instrumentation, and Semiconductor Technology.

Group projects & collaborative learning:

• Teaching blends lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, practicals, and group-based project work, so you'll regularly collaborate with peers on robotics and space science tasks.

Internships & placements:

• The course encourages participation in the Year in Employment (YES) and GO Wales schemes, which place you in paid work placements with local businesses or research groups to enhance your CV.

Research groups & real-world instrumentation:

• You’ll gain exposure to the Intelligent Robotics Research Group (IRG), which contributes to ESA’s ExoMars project with systems like the Mars Terrain Simulator and PanCam Emulator.

• IRG also develops multi-terrain exploration robots and optics/computer vision tools used in field trials—giving you real-world case studies and potential involvement.

Student society & outreach opportunities:

• Join the Aberystwyth Robotics Club, where you can work on Arduino/Raspberry Pi systems, public outreach, mentoring, and collaborative robotics builds—even if you’re new to robotics.

Libraries & academic support:

• You’ll be assigned a personal tutor for academic and personal support throughout your degree.

• Department and university libraries, along with digital journals, support your learning and project work.

Graduates of Aberystwyth University’s BSc (Hons) Space Science and Robotics are well-equipped for roles in the space industry, with many specializing in space robotics or branching into astrophysics, robotics engineering, or systems development. Others move into computer programming, systems development, software engineering, teaching, and related technical fields. Several alumni also progress to postgraduate study in space physics, robotics, intelligent systems, or solar system physics.

Here’s how Aberystwyth specifically supports your future:

Career Services & Experiential Learning:
The degree embeds employability through teaching and assessment, developing research and data analysis, mathematical and computational skills, problem-solving and creative thinking, independent working, time‑management and organization, communication, and teamwork skills.

Students can pursue paid work placements via the Year in Employment Scheme (YES) or GO Wales, managed by the Careers Service, though placement responsibility lies largely with the student.

Teaching & Learning:
You’ll build a foundation in computer infrastructure, astronomy, modern physics, classical dynamics, programming, and optics. In Year 2, you move into C/C++ environments, robotics and embedded systems, scientific Python, experimental physics, planetary science, and more. Final year modules include space robotics, condensed matter physics, semiconductor technology, and planetary atmospheres, capped by a major project worth 40 credits. Assessment includes coursework, presentations, lab diaries, reports, and exams, supported by personal tutor guidance.

Industry Partnerships & Research:
Aberystwyth’s Computer Science and Physics departments conduct research in intelligent robotics, planetary and space robotics, and computer vision. Students may have access to robotics labs and research projects, including those tied to ESA’s ExoMars rover mission. Faculty include researchers like Dr Myra Wilson, who leads the Intelligent Robotics Group.

Accreditation:
Unlike some CS-integrated robotics schemes at Aberystwyth, the Space Science and Robotics degree is not accredited by the BCS or IoP. Other robotics-related pathways (e.g., AI & Robotics or Robotics & Embedded Systems Engineering) may offer accreditation.

Graduate Outcomes:
Upon graduation, students will have a multidisciplinary skill set combining physics, robotics, astronomy, and software engineering, including proficiency in C/C++, Python, and embedded systems; hands-on experience with robotics hardware and space simulations; strong analytical, mathematical modeling, and data interpretation skills; and well-developed communication, teamwork, research, and project management abilities gained through a final-year project. 

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates frequently pursue MSc/MPhils in Intelligent Systems, Intelligent Autonomous Systems, Solar System Physics, or astrophysics. The departments offer suitable advanced degrees and research environments for progression.