BS Space Science and Engineering

If you’re fascinated by the universe and want to build a career designing, engineering, or exploring space missions, the Bachelor's in Space Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University offers an immersive, hands-on education. You’ll master the scientific, engineering, and mathematical principles behind space science, and you’ll learn to solve real-world problems alongside leading researchers and engineers.

 Here’s how you’ll gain practical skills and use JHU’s top resources:

• Bloomberg Centre for Physics & Astronomy: A 238,000-square-foot, seven-level hub complete with a rooftop observatory dome, advanced classrooms, and direct proximity to NASA’s Space Telescope Science Institute (home of the Hubble Space Telescope).

• Maryland Space Grant Observatory: Home to the Morris W. Offit Telescope, a 20-inch parabolic mirror instrument under the Greenblatt Dome, used for student observations and public open houses every Friday night (weather permitting).

• Johns Hopkins Instrument Development Group (IDG): An engineering group specialising in the design and development of scientific instruments for space and physics research, offering hands-on experience in electronics, mechanical engineering, optomechanics, and software development.

• Physical Sciences Machine Shop: A state-of-the-art facility for custom machining and fabrication, where students can learn to build and test components for space instruments and experiments.

• Physics Undergraduate Computer (PUC) Lab: Dedicated computing space with specialised software for simulation, data analysis, and modelling in physics and space science.

• Research Instrumentation: Access to a wide array of advanced research instruments for experimental and observational projects.

• Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL): Opportunities for hands-on training and internships through programs like Education with Industry, where students collaborate on real-world space engineering and national security projects.

• On-campus and paid internships: University Experiential Learning (UEL) facilitates part-time work experiences and paid internships, helping you build leadership and technical skills in real research and engineering environments.

Johns Hopkins University’s BS in Space Science and Engineering prepares students to thrive in one of the world’s most dynamic and innovative industries. Graduates are ready to launch their careers in one of the world’s most exciting fields. You’ll find alumni working as space systems engineers, mission analysts, spacecraft designers, and research scientists in industry, government labs, and top research organisations. Many also go on to advanced study in space science, engineering, or physics.

Here’s how Johns Hopkins sets you up for future success:

• Personalised Career Support: You’ll benefit from a strong community, access to state-of-the-art resources, and hands-on learning that prepares you to work in multidisciplinary teams—skills highly valued by employers in the space sector. The university’s 450+ student organisations and engineering-focused career services help you build your network and résumé.

• Impressive Graduate Outcomes: The program is designed to prepare you for immediate entry into professional roles in industry, government laboratories, and other organisations, or graduate study. You’ll master the scientific, engineering, and mathematical principles that drive space science and engineering, and learn to apply them to real-world problems.

• Industry and Research Partnerships: Johns Hopkins is home to the Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a leader in space missions and spacecraft design. APL partners with NASA, the Department of Defence, and other major organisations, and recently expanded its research collaborations with the University of Maryland, giving you access to cutting-edge projects and mentoring from experts working on missions like New Horizons and Dragonfly.

• Accreditation & Lasting Value: The degree is fully recognised in the US and internationally, providing a strong foundation for both employment and further study. You’ll graduate with skills in systems engineering, mission formulation, spacecraft design, and data analysis, making you a standout candidate for roles across the aerospace sector.

• Versatile, In-Demand Skills: The curriculum covers everything from space astronomy and planetary exploration to propulsion, spacecraft control, and communication. You’ll learn to think quantitatively, solve complex problems, and communicate your ideas effectively—skills that open doors in science, engineering, and beyond.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your degree in Space Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a master’s in space systems engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, or related fields. The university’s strong research culture, global reputation, and industry connections ensure you’re set up for success in graduate school and throughout your career.