Space Science and Engineering: Space Science MSc

From day one, you’ll be developing practical skills in a lively, supportive learning environment. You won’t just sit in lectures—you’ll learn directly from experts, work with peers in projects, and gain hands-on experience through workshops and your own dissertation research. The programme is designed to give you the right balance of theory and practice so that you’re fully prepared for a career in the space science industry.

One of the biggest highlights is UCL’s world-renowned Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL)—the university’s hub for space research. Here, you’ll get the rare chance to contribute to real space missions. From designing and testing instruments to analysing mission data, this experience gives you the kind of mission-focused skills that employers are looking for.

How your learning is structured:

• Lectures, tutorials, and workshops: Learn the core theories, then immediately test your understanding through problem-solving, interactive activities, and team-based presentations.

• Group projects and dissertation: Work closely with peers on collaborative projects, and then dive deep into a research area of your choice with one-to-one guidance from academic supervisors—especially during your final term.

Facilities, tools, and opportunities you’ll benefit from:

Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL)

• A global leader in space instrumentation research, with hardware that’s flown on more than 300 missions since 1957.

• Gain first-hand experience working alongside leading scientists and engineers, contributing to real instruments and analysing mission data.

Industry & Professional Skills Development

• Take part in industry panels, alumni talks, and visits to key organisations across the year.

• Build a strong professional network and gain valuable insights into the career paths open to you in the space sector.

Teaching & Digital Learning Tools

• A blended approach of online learning, research-based assignments, and lecture support materials.

• Develop confidence using the digital and analytical tools that drive innovation in space science.

Graduates from UCL’s Space Science MSc go on to do some truly exciting things. Many step straight into roles that shape the future of space exploration—whether in world-leading research institutes or cutting-edge space companies. Here are just a few of the paths you could take:

• Space Research Scientist – making new discoveries that expand our knowledge of the universe

• Satellite Instrumentation Engineer – building the technology that powers missions and keeps them running

• Space Mission Analyst – helping plan and evaluate mission strategies that can change how we explore space

• Planetary Data Scientist – turning streams of mission data into insights that drive real breakthroughs

Support every step of the way

At UCL, you’re not left to figure things out alone. UCL Careers is there to make sure you’re ready for whatever comes next. You’ll benefit from:

• One-to-one career consultations tailored to your goals

• CV and interview workshops designed specifically for competitive industries

• Access to exclusive job and internship opportunities in the space sector

• Alumni insights and mentoring through the Graduate Outcomes platform

Graduate success and salary outlook

UCL graduates are known for making an impact quickly. Within just 15 months of finishing their degree:

• 67% move directly into highly skilled roles

• 13.7% choose to continue their studies

For postgraduates, the results are even stronger:

• Around 90% secure excellent positions in their chosen field

• Salaries typically fall in the £28,000–£35,000 range

• Across UCL graduates, the average salary is £37,369 (median £32,000)

Industry connections that matter

This MSc is delivered at UCL’s Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL)—the UK’s largest university space research group. MSSL has been part of 71 satellite missions, with 10 currently orbiting Earth and 7 more on the way.

As a student, you’ll benefit from direct collaborations with:

• ESA (European Space Agency)

• NASA

• Industry leaders such as DSTL, SSTL, and Leonardo

Plus, with the ESA_Lab@UCL, you’ll get the chance to contribute to projects shaped by world-class agencies.

A degree that stands out

UCL’s research in space science is internationally recognised for its quality—earning the highest possible REF grade 5 rating. That means your degree carries real weight, opening doors not just now but throughout your career.

What graduates go on to do

Alumni from this programme have gone on to make a real mark in:

• Academic research and teaching

• Space instrumentation and mission design

• Mission planning and analysis

• Space policy, strategy, and economy

In short: this MSc doesn’t just get you ready for your first role—it sets you up for a career at the very forefront of space science and technology.