MSc in Space Science and Technology at The Open University

Programme overview

Developed with the UK Space Agency and leading space industry partners, the MSc covers space science and the underpinning technology and prepares students for a career or further research in the space sector, including independent and collaborative scientific investigations.

Duration: 3 years part-time (60 credits per year, 16-20 hours a week). Must be completed within 7 years. | Intake: October 2027 (next start shown on page) | Study mode: part-time distance learning | Location: Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

180 credits: a compulsory 60-credit Space science module (S818), 60 credits from option modules (including Information security M811, Digital forensics M812, Software development M813, Data management M816, Network security T828, Communications technology TM355, Applied statistical modelling M348, Quantum physics SM380 and others) and a project. The first two-thirds match the Postgraduate Diploma (E90).

Career pathways

Prepares students for a career or further research in the space sector.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a UK honours degree (or equivalent) in physics, astronomy, geosciences, chemistry, engineering or mathematics; evidence is requested when registering for the first module, Space science (S818). Applications from non-graduates with other relevant qualifications or experience are considered. A minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0 is recommended where English is not the first language. Recommended per-skill minimum of 5.5 in each component.

GBP 9,620 for the whole programme (2026/27). Total for the qualification at 2026/27 prices with England selected as location; paid one module at a time. Module materials, tuition, assessment and exams included; fee valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Published as a range (GBP 9,620 to 10 Source

Intake: October 2027 (next start shown on page)

Duration: 3 years part-time (60 credits per year, 16-20 hours a week). Must be completed within 7 years.

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