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2 Years On Campus Masters Program
Zurich Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETHThe Master of Science in Space Systems, Specialisation in Aerospace Engineering at ETH Zurich is a 2-year interdisciplinary master's programme focused on space systems and aerospace technologies. It combines systems engineering, aerospace fundamentals, space-data analysis and mission design to prepare students for complex engineering challenges in the space sector.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Students study space systems engineering, mission design, scientific introductory subjects and space-data analysis. They develop foundational knowledge of spacecraft systems, mission requirements, orbital dynamics and the integration of technologies used in space missions.
Year 2: Students advance their knowledge through the Aerospace Engineering specialisation, with subjects covering structural mechanics, lightweight and composite materials, fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, propulsion, control theory and orbital mechanics. They also complete a team-based space mission project and a Master’s thesis.
Focus Areas: Aerospace Engineering, Space Systems Engineering, Structural Mechanics, Composite Materials, Fluid Dynamics, Aerodynamics, Propulsion, Control Theory, Orbital Mechanics and Space Mission Design.
Learning Outcomes: Graduates develop the ability to analyse and design complex space systems, apply systems-engineering methods, understand aerospace subsystems and use analytical and modelling tools to address engineering problems.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The programme awards the Master of Science ETH in Space Systems, with Aerospace Engineering as a specialised study track. It provides advanced interdisciplinary preparation in space systems and aerospace engineering.
Reputation (Employability): The programme combines engineering and scientific knowledge with practical mission-based projects, preparing graduates for technical, systems-focused and research-oriented roles in the space sector.
The programme emphasises project-based learning and the practical application of engineering principles to space missions. Students collaborate across academic backgrounds to develop systems-level understanding and work on realistic space-related challenges.
Key aspects of experiential learning include:
Space Systems Engineering: Students learn to define mission requirements, develop mission concepts and apply systems-engineering methods throughout the design process.
Space Mission Design: Project work involves designing and analysing space missions using engineering tools and modelling methods.
Space-Data Analysis: Students gain experience processing and interpreting data relevant to space science and engineering.
Aerospace Specialisation: Students develop technical knowledge in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, orbital mechanics, structural mechanics and control.
Case Studies and Team Projects: Students work collaboratively on a space mission, spacecraft or space instrument, with opportunities for projects involving ETH research groups or external partners.
Master’s Thesis: Students complete an advanced research or engineering project at ETH Zurich or in collaboration with an industry partner or space agency.
These activities develop technical, analytical and teamwork skills for multidisciplinary aerospace and space-engineering projects.
The programme prepares graduates for technical and systems-focused careers in the space sector, as well as research and development in aerospace and related technologies. The Aerospace Engineering specialisation supports pathways involving spacecraft, propulsion, aerodynamics, control and mission engineering.
Key opportunities include:
Aerospace & Space Industry: Opportunities in organisations developing spacecraft, satellite systems, propulsion technologies and aerospace components.
Space Agencies: Graduates can pursue technical roles involving mission planning, systems engineering and space technology.
Space Systems Engineering: The programme supports roles focused on integrating spacecraft subsystems and managing complex engineering requirements.
Aerospace Research & Development: Graduates can contribute to research involving aerodynamics, propulsion, structural mechanics, control systems and orbital mechanics.
Advanced Technology: The analytical and modelling skills developed are applicable to high-technology industries beyond the space sector.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue doctoral research in aerospace engineering, space systems or related scientific and engineering disciplines.
The programme offers a pathway into the international space sector by combining aerospace expertise with systems-level thinking and interdisciplinary engineering.
Campus Location Zurich, Switzerland
IELTS Academic overall 7.0, with no band below 6.0 in any section.
TOEFL iBT score 5.0 for tests taken on or after 01-21-2026, or 100 for earlier tests; no section minimums are published.
International Bachelor’s applicants need two recommendation letters, a motivation letter of about one A4 page, course-content information and three preferred tutors. India: Minimum overall average for MSc Space Systems: 8.8/10; a percentage threshold is not publishedChina: Minimum overall average for MSc Space Systems: 88/100 or 3.6/4.USA: Minimum overall average for MSc Space Systems: 3.5/4.UK: Minimum overall average for MSc Space Systems: 68/100; UK honours-class equivalency is not published. Aerospace EngineerSpace Systems EngineerSpacecraft Systems EngineerSpace Mission EngineerSatellite Systems EngineerAerospace Structures EngineerAerodynamics EngineerFluid Dynamics EngineerPropulsion EngineerOrbital Mechanics EngineerFlight Dynamics EngineerControl Systems Engineer
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