Program Overview

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Master of Engineering Science (Space Systems Engineering)

The Master of Engineering Science (Space Systems Engineering) is a two-year postgraduate degree offered by the School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications at UNSW. This program is designed for students who already have an accredited engineering degree and want to move into the space industry or pursue research in the sector.

Overview

Through the Space Systems Engineering stream, students will explore systems engineering in spacecraft and space systems, before delving into the ways these systems are being applied in current and future industries. The program includes a combination of core and elective courses, as well as a year-long practical project. Subject areas covered include:

• Systems engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Aerospace engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Satellite systems
• Space mission development
• Space systems engineering

Why Study at UNSW?

UNSW is ranked #1 in Australia for Electrical Engineering (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025) and #1 in Australia and #25 globally for Engineering and Technology. The university's Engineering schools are ranked in the global top 50, with two schools ranked in the global top 10 for Engineering subjects. Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with world-leading research centers at UNSW, including the Australian Centre for Space Engineering Research (ACSER).

Program Structure

The Master of Engineering Science includes:

• Enquiry-based courses
• Disciplinary courses
• Engineering and Technical Management Courses Students can tailor their degree to their interests by combining courses in their chosen specialization with elective courses. They will also have the chance to work on a complex, open-ended enquiry-based research project.

Entry Requirements

There are two entry points into this Master of Engineering Science specialization, depending on the student's cognate background. Students with a cognate background can enter the program directly, while those with a non-cognate background can enter via the Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science/Master of Engineering Science pathway.

Students with a Cognate Background

Entry into the Master's program requires completion of a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree (or equivalent) or 3-year Engineering Science degree in a cognate discipline. A minimum 65% average, or its equivalent, throughout the qualifying bachelor's degree is mandatory.

Students with a Non-Cognate Background

Students with a non-cognate background can enter the Master of Engineering Science via the Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science/Master of Engineering Science pathway. Entry into the pathway requires completion of a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree (or equivalent) or 3-year Engineering Science degree in any engineering discipline. A minimum 65% average, or its equivalent, throughout the qualifying bachelor's degree is mandatory.

Cognate Disciplines

Cognate disciplines for this program include:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Communications Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Electronic Information
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronic Engineering
• Power Systems Engineering
• Space Systems Engineering
• Telecommunications

Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Transfer)

Recognition of Prior Learning is the transfer of credit towards the program from previous study. If students have relevant previous study experience, they may be eligible for credit points that would enable them to complete their Master of Engineering Science in as little as one year, or another accelerated option listed below, dependent on their previous study.

English Language Requirements

Students may be asked to provide evidence of their English proficiency to study at UNSW, depending on their educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments, and examinations.

Fees and Scholarships

The program offers a range of fees and scholarships, including:

• Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)
• Full-fee places
• Scholarships, such as the UNSW Women in Engineering Research Scholarship

Future Careers

Graduates of the Space Systems Engineering Science stream will have a deep understanding of space engineering, as well as a breadth of knowledge and experience in related disciplines. They will be prepared to work in roles where they will plan, develop, deploy, test, and optimize systems related to space exploration and research. The demand for systems engineers is high, and the skills and experience gained at UNSW Engineering will set graduates up to work in diverse roles and sectors, including:

• Space systems engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Computer networks
• Aerospace engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Project management
• Mechatronics
• Software engineering
• Structural engineering
• Professional, technical, and scientific services
• Information media and telecommunications

UNSW Engineering graduates are some of the most sought-after professional engineers in Australia and abroad, thanks to the reputation of the university's research and teaching.