Program Overview

Master of Space Operations (Canberra)

The Master of Space Operations at UNSW Canberra is a one-year full-time program that advances students' knowledge and expands their career opportunities in the space industry. The program is designed to provide students with the technical expertise and strategic insight to lead and innovate in the fast-evolving space sector.

Overview

The Master of Space Operations is a 48-unit program that consists of four core courses and four elective courses. The program is delivered by the School of Engineering and Information Technology and is available online. Students will study core topics like space mission design, satellite communications, and space systems engineering, as well as explore the economic and strategic drivers of the global space industry.

Key Features

• Unrivalled space facilities: Students will gain hands-on experience with Australia's first space mission concurrent engineering design facility, alongside state-of-the-art resources like the Falcon Telescope, cleanroom, and satellite ground stations.
• Accelerated career path: The program focuses on both managerial and technical skills, preparing students for leadership roles in space operations.
• Research and innovation opportunities: Students can engage in original research and innovation, with an optional research project that allows them to explore cutting-edge topics or prepare for a higher research degree.

Why Study at UNSW Canberra?

• Australia's largest space capability: UNSW Canberra is home to the largest space capability in the country, providing students with access to the latest technology and real-world projects.
• Learn from industry leaders: Students will be mentored by top experts in space systems, Defence, and space operations, ensuring they gain relevant and up-to-date insights to propel their careers.
• Global career prospects: The program's strong industry connections and global reputation provide a springboard for careers worldwide, whether in government, Defence, or the commercial space industry.

Program Structure

The program contains a total of 48 units of credit and can be completed in one year of full-time study. Students must complete:

• Core courses: 24 units of credit, including Space Operations, Space Systems Technology, Space Systems Engineering Management, and Space Cooperation, Conflict, and Competition.
• Prescribed electives: Up to 24 units of credit, with options like Global Navigation Satellite Systems, Cyber Resilience, and Satellite Communications.
• Optional research project: Up to 12 units of credit, allowing students to dive into an area of interest with an independent research project.

Entry Requirements

Please refer to the UNSW Handbook for the entry requirements. English language requirements may apply, and students may need to provide evidence of their English proficiency.

What Will I Study?

The program structure includes core courses, prescribed electives, and an optional research project. Students will study topics like space mission design, satellite communications, and space systems engineering, as well as explore the economic and strategic drivers of the global space industry.

Future Careers

Graduates of the Master of Space Operations are entering a rapidly expanding global space industry, with career opportunities spanning government, Defence, and private sectors. Potential roles include:

• Aerospace Engineer
• Astronautical Engineer
• Defence Consultant
• Launch Operations Specialist
• Mission Analyst
• Mission Controller
• Orbital Analyst
• Payload Systems Engineer
• Project Manager
• Satellite Operations Engineer
• Space Operations Coordinator
• Space Policy Analyst
• Space Systems Engineer
• Spacecraft Operations Engineer
• Systems Integration Engineer
• Test Engineer

Fees and Scholarships

The 2026 indicative first-year full fee is $39,500, and the indicative full fee to complete the degree is $39,500. Scholarships are available, and students can explore options through the UNSW scholarships website.