Study Programmes Master in Space Technologies and Business

Programme

This collaborative programme aims to generate a talented pool of professionals able to answer the diverse needs of the booming commercial space industry. Growing innovations in space exploration and exploitation require professional figures able to manage the technical side as well as the business side of complex space missions and operations. This double focus sets it apart from other graduate programmes. To provide students with the best of the two worlds, the curriculum features technical and business lectures from highly experienced academic staff and external experts from the space sector.
 
Both these aspects are taught through a practical, project-based learning approach. From day one, the students begin designing their own CubeSat mission. They build upon it as they learn to apply state-of-the-art methodologies in design and technology, such as concurrent engineering and informatics for space systems. The all-round programme adds a range of disciplines to provide graduates with a solid foundation for a successful career.

Academic contents

Preparing a thesis in collaboration with industry

The master’s thesis project may be carried out in collaboration with industry, other universities, public research institutions or space agencies such as ESA, NASA. The thesis should cover a scientific topic within the scope of the Master (such as space engineering, space informatics, space business and finance, or space entrepreneurship). The thesis work is typically carried out at the company/institution under the supervision of two thesis advisors, one from the company/institution and one academic advisor from the University.

Benefits for companies

The company benefits by defining a master’s thesis project that is of high interest to the company and attracting talent.  Potential positive results of the project for companies include:

  • Assistance in advancing or initiating innovative projects in the space domain: students can contribute to projects;
  • Access to specialist knowledge: students can bring their advanced skills and knowledge in space engineering and business and put them to practical use;
  • Establish a link to specialists at the University: students will have a domain expert as advisor at the University;
  • Focus in-depth on specific problems that the company would like to investigate and explore solutions;
  • Potential hire once the student has graduated.

Benefits for students

Completing the final thesis in cooperation with a company is a great way to kick-start the student’s career:

  • This will open up exciting opportunities directly in the industry;
  • Upgrade the CV with practical experience via opportunities to apply the skills gained in the courses and benefit from interacting with experienced and knowledgeable practitioners in a focused project, which is highly attractive to potential employers;
  • Students will learn to undertake independent work and act as a lead researcher;
  • Build a professional network at the start of a career and create new contacts.

30 ECTS credits are granted to the master’s thesis in and shall be completed within six months from the starting date.