Planetary Sciences, MSc

Program Overview

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Planetary Sciences, MSc

Introduction

This programme is designed to provide students from any academic background an informed understanding of planetary atmospheres and landforms, space environment, remote sensing, data analysis, astrobiology and space systems engineering and instrumentation, giving you a springboard for a career in the rapidly expanding space sector.

Study Information

Study Options

• Learning Mode: On Campus Learning
• Degree Qualification: MSc
• Duration: 12 months or 24 months
• Study Mode: Full Time or Part Time
• Start Month: September or January
• Location of Study: Aberdeen

Programme Fees

Fee Category	Cost
EU / International students	£22,000
UK	£10,000

Stage 1

Compulsory Courses

• Comparative Planetology and the Atmosphere of Earth (GL5062)
• Basics of Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis (GL5063)
• Spectroscopy, Radiative Transfer and Retrieval (GL5064)
• Instrumentation for Planetary Exploration (GL5065)
• Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD5006)

Stage 2

Compulsory Courses

• Earth and Planetary Surface and Internal Processes (GL5561)
• Astrobiology, Biogeochemistry and Geobiology for Explorers (GL5563)
• Sustainable Deep Space Exploration and Planetary Protection (GL5564)
• Space Weather and Radiation for Planetary Exploration (GL5562)

Stage 3

Compulsory Courses

• Planetary Sciences Dissertation (GL5966)

Available Programmes of Study

• MSc
  • Planetary Sciences
    • Qualification: MSc
    • Duration: 12 months or 24 months
    • Learning Mode: On Campus Learning
    • Study Mode: Full Time or Part Time
    • Start Month: September or January
    • Location: Aberdeen

Scholarships

• All eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students starting in September 2025 will receive an £8,000 scholarship.

How You'll Study

Learning Methods

• Group Projects
• Individual Projects
• Lab Work
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops

Why Study Planetary Sciences?

• Prepare for a career in a rapidly growing sector.
• The Department of Planetary Sciences is part of current and future missions to Mars.
• Study in a Department which is funded by the UK Space Agency.
• Develop new STEM skills through an interdisciplinary programme.

Careers

• The UK space industry is booming.
• Employers need graduates with technical skills, supported by qualifications at the post-graduate level.
• Career Opportunities:
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Environmental Data Coordinator
  • Exploration Geologist
  • Graduate Scientist
  • Junior Lecturer
  • Planetary Geologist
  • Policy Advisor
  • Researcher

Entry Requirements

• 2:2 UK Honours degree, or an Honours degree from a non-UK institution which is judged by the University to be of equivalent worth, in any discipline.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS Academic: 6.5 with Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
• TOEFL iBT: 90 with Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
• PTE Academic: 62 with Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
• Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency: 176 with Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169

Document Requirements

• Degree Transcript
• Personal Statement

Our Experts

• Programme Coordinator: Professor Javier Martin-Torres
• Other Experts:
  • Dr Shaktiman Singh
  • Dr Miracle Israel Nazarious
  • Dr Juan Antonio Ramirez Luque
  • Dr Malcolm Hole
  • Dr Alex Brasier
  • Dr Thasshwin Mathanlal

Features

• Planetary Sciences students visit Boulby Underground Laboratory

What Our Alumni Say

• Adam Corbett
• Rachel Brown
• David Ross Clark
• Louis Steele

Funding awarded to develop Martian chamber

• The Planetary Sciences team was awarded £320,000 by the UK Space Agency to create a unique chamber simulating Mars’ environment.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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MSc Planetary Sciences

This program, designed for students from any academic background, provides a comprehensive understanding of planetary atmospheres, landscapes, space environments, remote sensing, data analysis, astrobiology, and space systems engineering and instrumentation. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue careers in the rapidly expanding space sector.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with a deep understanding of the pioneering research and technological advancements shaping the future of space exploration.
• Provide students with the technical research skills needed for deep space exploration, including remote sensing, spectroscopy, and instrument design.
• Educate and train a new generation of geologists, physicists, chemists, biologists, and engineers of all disciplines.
• Offer interdisciplinary training that equips students to tackle problems outside of space exploration, such as instrument design, geology, microbiology, environmental sciences, planetary sciences, and data analysis in remote sensing.

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Description:

This program offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for diverse career paths within the space industry and beyond. Through a focus on fundamental physical and chemical processes, students gain a deeper understanding of planetary atmospheres, magnetic fields, surface geology, isotopic differentiation, and the formation of habitable environments. As students progress, they acquire expertise in advanced research techniques, including remote sensing, spectroscopy, and instrument design, preparing them for the challenges of deep space exploration. Students gain an understanding of modeling, observation methods, and missions dedicated to studying planetary atmospheres.

• Basics of Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis: This course delves into the principles and methods of planetary remote sensing, providing students with the ability to perform geospatial integration and analysis of spatial datasets.
Students learn about the theoretical aspects and practical applications of data capture, handling, and analysis methods.
• Spectroscopy, Radiative Transfer and Retrieval: This course focuses on the rapidly growing fields of spectroscopy, radiative transfer, and retrieval methods.
Students gain a fundamental understanding of these techniques and their applications in studying weather, climate, air quality, greenhouse gases, and biogeochemical cycles on Earth, as well as the atmospheres of planets and exoplanets. Students gain insights into the stages of designing space exploration missions and their instrumentation, as well as the constraints involved and the data production and release procedures. The course utilizes practical case studies and online tools to enhance learning. Students develop essential geological reasoning skills through diverse data sets, furthering their understanding of planetary science.
• Astrobiology, Biogeochemistry and Geobiology for Explorers: This course explores the origins and potential extent of life on Earth and within the Solar System.
Students delve into the elements and building blocks of life, the fossilization process of microbial life, and the identification of ancient and extraterrestrial signs of life. The course utilizes advanced analytical facilities to demonstrate the distinction between biotic and abiotic signals, exploring biomarkers and fossilization examples.
• Sustainable Deep Space Exploration and Planetary Protection: This course equips students with practical knowledge on the challenges associated with deep space exploration, including in-situ resource utilization, sample return missions, and planetary protection.
• Space Weather and Radiation for Planetary Exploration: This course examines the varying conditions within the space environment between the Sun and Earth, known as space weather.
The course then applies this knowledge to understand the impact of the space environment on planetary exploration.

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Stage 3:

• Planetary Sciences Dissertation: This capstone project allows students to select, undertake, and complete a research-based dissertation project.
The project topic is chosen in consultation with faculty, considering the student's background, career interests, data availability, and potential for external placement.

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Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the course, but may include:

• Examinations: Written examinations testing students' understanding of key concepts and theories.
• Coursework: Assignments, essays, and projects designed to assess students' analytical and research skills.
• Presentations: Opportunities for students to present their research findings and engage in discussions with peers and faculty.
• Dissertation: A comprehensive research project requiring students to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research, analyze data, and present their findings in a clear and concise manner.

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Teaching:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and provide a comprehensive learning experience. These methods include:

• Lectures: Delivered by experienced faculty members, lectures provide students with a foundation in key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: Interactive sessions where students engage in discussions, ask questions, and explore specific topics in greater depth.
• Laboratory work: Hands-on experience with equipment and techniques relevant to planetary science.
• Group projects: Collaborative projects that allow students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios.
• Individual projects: Independent research projects that enable students to develop their research skills and explore their interests in greater detail.
• Field trips: Opportunities to visit relevant research facilities and gain firsthand experience in the field.
The program is taught by a team of internationally recognized researchers and educators who are actively involved in cutting-edge research projects. This ensures that students receive the most up-to-date knowledge and insights into the field of planetary science.

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Careers:

Graduates of the MSc Planetary Sciences program are well-equipped to pursue careers in a variety of fields within the space industry and beyond. Potential career paths include:

• Planetary scientist: conducting research on the formation, evolution, and composition of planets and other celestial bodies.
• Spacecraft engineer: designing and developing spacecraft and instruments for space exploration missions.
• Remote sensing analyst: analyzing data from satellites and other remote sensing instruments to study Earth and other planets.
• Data scientist: developing and applying data analysis techniques to solve complex problems in planetary science.
• Science communicator: communicating scientific research findings to the public and policymakers.
• Academic researcher: conducting research and teaching at universities and other research institutions.
The program also provides students with the transferable skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers outside of planetary science research, such as instrument design, geology, microbiology, environmental sciences, planetary sciences, and data analysis in remote sensing.

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Other:

• The program is offered both on-campus and online, providing flexibility for students with different needs and circumstances.
• The program is designed to be accessible to students from any academic background, with no prior knowledge of planetary science required.
• The program offers a strong emphasis on employability skills, preparing students for a successful career in the space industry or beyond.
• The University of Aberdeen is a leading research institution with a strong track record in planetary science research.
This provides students with access to world-class facilities and research opportunities.
• The program is affordable compared to similar programs offered by other universities, making it an attractive option for students seeking a high-quality education without breaking the bank.

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EU / International students: £22,000 UK: £10,000