Aeronautics and Astronautics Spacecraft Engineering

Key Facts

• Program Title: Aeronautics and Astronautics Spacecraft Engineering
• Degree Type: Master of Engineering (Integrated Undergraduate Degree)
• Duration: 4 years
• Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
• Application Deadline: 14 January 2026
• Location: University of Southampton, United Kingdom
• Field of Study: Aerospace Engineering
• Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Year 1 – Foundations in Aeronautics, Astronautics, and Engineering Principles

• Introduction to Aerospace Engineering and Spacecraft Design
• Mechanics of Materials and Solid Mechanics
• Fluid Mechanics and Aerodynamics
• Engineering Mathematics for Aerospace Systems
• Electrical Engineering for Spacecraft
• Computing and Programming for Engineering

Year 2 – Intermediate Aerospace and Spacecraft Engineering

• Aircraft and Spacecraft Structures
• Orbital Mechanics and Space Mission Design
• Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer in Aerospace Systems
• Aerospace Systems and Control
• Dynamics and Vibrations in Aerospace Structures
• Elective Module in Advanced Engineering or Applied Physics

Year 3 – Advanced Spacecraft Engineering and Specialization

• Propulsion Systems for Spacecraft and Aircraft
• Spacecraft Systems Engineering and Integration
• Spacecraft Navigation and Guidance Systems
• Computational Fluid Dynamics and Aeroacoustics
• Space Mission Planning and Management
• Elective Modules in Specializations (e.g. Space Robotics, Space Environment Science)

Year 4 – Master’s Level Engineering and Independent Research

• Advanced Spacecraft Design and Propulsion
• Spacecraft Systems Integration and Testing
• Independent Research Project / Dissertation in Spacecraft Engineering
• Professional Development and Engineering Ethics
• Advanced Aerospace Control Systems
• Elective Modules in Aerospace Engineering or Space Technology

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this Master of Engineering (MEng) programme will be well-equipped to pursue careers in aerospace engineering, spacecraft design, satellite technology, and space exploration. Career paths include aerospace engineer, spacecraft systems engineer, propulsion engineer, mission planner, and satellite operations specialist. Graduates can also pursue roles in defence, commercial space companies, and government space agencies such as NASA, ESA, or SpaceX. The programme also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study or research in aerospace, astronautics, or space systems engineering. Employers highly value graduates with hands-on engineering experience, expertise in spacecraft systems, and strong problem-solving abilities, making them highly competitive in the rapidly evolving aerospace industry.

Why Choose This Program

This programme offers a unique combination of aeronautics and astronautics, focusing on the design and development of spacecraft and the technologies required for space exploration. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of aerospace systems, spacecraft dynamics, and orbital mechanics, while developing practical skills in systems integration, propulsion, and spacecraft mission planning. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with real-world engineering projects, including the opportunity for independent research in space technology. The fourth year of the programme provides a master’s level integration, allowing students to engage in advanced engineering projects and specialize in areas such as space systems engineering or aerospace propulsion. This programme is ideal for students passionate about aerospace exploration, spacecraft engineering, and pursuing a career in the exciting field of space technology.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)23 8059 5000
Email: admissions@soton.ac.uk
Address: University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom