Mankind has always been curious. After all, that’s the basis of discovery – our world’s innovations and technology were built by scientists and engineers who yearned to unravel the mysteries of the universe, solve complex problems, and push the boundaries of what was thought possible.
This relentless pursuit of knowledge has led to breakthroughs that have shaped civilisation as we know it, even bringing mankind to space. We’ve seen studies of the sun, the planets and their moons, and even pondered what lies beyond. Even so, the call for those who possess the capabilities to navigate the cosmos remains unwavering – the world needs more of those ready to work at the forefront of space science research, working to facilitate mankind’s foray into space.
Such outcomes can be found at universities offering fulfilling and enriching education and research in these fields, like these three institutions listed below:
MSSL offers state-of-the-art test facilities for ground and space-based technology and is based in the Surrey Hills near Dorking. Source: University College London
University College London
At the ninth-best university in the world, classrooms evolve into command centres for space missions, and educators focus less on textbooks and more on mapping the dark universe, finding habitable planets, and exploring the sun up close. Indeed, University College London’s (UCL) Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL) has been at the forefront of space exploration for over 50 years, contributing to over 70 orbital missions and 200 rocket launches. Its instruments have travelled to Mars, Venus, and beyond, while missions like Euclid, Gaia, and Solar Orbiter continue to push the boundaries of what we know about the universe.
Through MSSL’s comprehensive Master of Science (MSc) programmes, aspirants learn everything there is to know about shaping the future in space.
At the ninth-best university in the world, classrooms evolve into command centres for space missions, and educators focus less on textbooks and more on mapping the dark universe, finding habitable planets, and exploring the sun up close. Indeed, University College London’s (UCL) Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL) has been at the forefront of space exploration for over 50 years, contributing to over 70 orbital missions and 200 rocket launches. Its instruments have travelled to Mars, Venus, and beyond, while missions like Euclid, Gaia, and Solar Orbiter continue to push the boundaries of what we know about the universe.
For example, the MSc in Space Science & Engineering: Space Science provides a strong foundation for understanding the space environment, working with the latest instrumentation and space data, as well as developing the skills to tackle cutting edge research questions. Students on this route also gain exposure to spacecraft operations and space project management essentials.
Meanwhile, the MSc in Space Science & Engineering: Space Technology covers the principles of space technology and satellite communications. Delivered by experts from UCL Space & Climate Physics, students can also choose to include options from UCL Electronic and Electrical Engineering that explore the details of antenna design and communication systems modelling. The Department also offers an MSc in Systems Engineering Management, an MSc in Technology Management, and an MSc in Management of Complex Projects.
All programmes bridge technical expertise and industrial applications. Whether competing for the Innovation and Enterprise Student Prize, like Giacomo Rossetti, whose project showcased innovative potential and societal impact or attending workshops co-hosted with the European Space Agency (ESA), students gain a decent amount of exposure to industry leaders and cutting-edge practices. For students like Brahma Gopalchetty, it was using NASA software in UCL’s labs, events like the UCL Technology Showcase, research presentations at national conferences, and involvement in societies like the UCL Space Society that truly sharpened his skills and gave him a competitive edge.
Take the next steps towards your future in space at UCL’s MSSL.

The Master’s in Space Systems programme at ETH Zurich provides an overview of modern space systems, focusing on system design, data analysis, and sustainability. Source: ETH Zurich/Facebook
ETH Zurich
Tucked away in the stunning Swiss Alps, ETH Zurich is a world leader in technical and scientific education, holding the impressive rank of sixth globally. It’s a big name in the space sector, working alongside leading players in the global space ecosystem, covering fields like astrophysics, earth observation, navigation systems, and robotics.
At the heart of this effort is Professor Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen, ETH’s Professor of Space Science and Technology, who is driven by a bold vision. “I want to launch one of the world’s best interdisciplinary master’s degree programmes in space science and technology in order to train the next generation of space leaders,” he says.
This vision is brought to life through one of ETH’s standout programmes, the Master’s in Space Systems. It gives students a solid grasp of modern space systems through core courses and electives in areas like earth and planetary science, physics, and engineering.
Students apply their skills in a practical case study of a space mission, spacecraft, or instrument evaluated by experts from ETH, space agencies, and industry. This hands-on approach familiarises them with the formal review process of space projects. The master’s thesis can be undertaken in any of the four participating departments (D-EAPS, D-ITET, D-MAVT, D-PHYS) or within the industry.
The result? Graduates are well-prepared for the dynamic space industry, ready to join startups, space agencies, and research organisations. Whether they’re developing innovative space technologies or analysing space data, students leave equipped to excel in agile, interdisciplinary teams. With their expertise, they are poised to contribute significantly to the future of space exploration and innovation.

The Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals Space Systems Engineering degree covers technical disciplines across the entire space systems development life cycle. Source: Johns Hopkins University/Facebook
Johns Hopkins University
“What are we aiming at?”This was the question posed by Daniel Coit Gilman, Johns Hopkins University’s first president, in 1876. His answer laid the foundation for what the university stands for: “the encouragement of research and the advancement of individual scholars, who by their excellence will advance the sciences they pursue and the society where they dwell.”
Nearly 150 years later, this vision remains at the core of Johns Hopkins University. It’s a place where ambitious scholars gather, and it is a global leader in teaching and research.
For those passionate about space, the Whiting School of Engineering offers the online Space Systems Engineering master’s programme. It connects students with top experts and practitioners from the space community, including those from the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL).
APL, a not-for-profit university-affiliated research centre, has been a pioneer since the dawn of the Space Age. From taking the first picture of Earth from space to sending spacecraft across the solar system, APL has been at the forefront of space science and technology. Its experts continue to advise the government, ensuring the reliability of technologies that protect national security and push the boundaries of space exploration.
In this programme, students dive into the formal systems engineering method, exploring its applications in space missions and delving deeper into the technical aspects of flight and ground systems. They analyse case studies of current topics, such as AI in space systems operations, and even get hands-on experience designing spacecraft, tackling elements like thermal control, power, and communication systems.
At Hopkins, students are encouraged to pursue their passions beyond academics. With over 450 student-led organisations, opportunities abound in groups like AstroJays, Design, Build, Fly, and oSTEM, creating a vibrant community of innovation and exploration.
*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International.