Description
This postgraduate qualification is designed for those with an academic or professional interest in space science and the technology that underpins this discipline. It equips students with the skills to carry out scientific investigations using space-based instrumentation, both individually and as a team. Students learn how to use a programming language in support of space science applications and develop other skills that are highly relevant to employment in the space sector.
Key features of the course
- Develops skills in conducting science in the space environment through the use of robotic experiments
- Explores current debates in space and planetary sciences using data from space missions
- Develops technical and professional skills according to individual needs and interests
This postgraduate diploma is the same as the first two-thirds of our MSc in Space Science and Technology (F77). The first half is the same as our Postgraduate Certificate in Space Science (K28).
Planning your studies
Entry to this qualification will typically require a minimum of an honours degree (or equivalent qualification) in one of: physics, astronomy, geosciences, chemistry, engineering or mathematics. Space science (S818) should be studied as the first module in the qualification. Any prior entry requirements (pre-requisites) on constituent optional modules will need to be met separately, where these may apply.
How long it takes
This qualification can be completed within two years, and up to a maximum of four years from the start of the first module.
Career relevance and employability
This qualification is directly relevant to scientific and technical careers in the space sector. It is particularly relevant to roles that are concerned with acquisition, handling and interpretation of data obtained by space-based instrumentation.
Careers and Employability Services have more information on how OU study can improve your employability.
Modules
To gain this qualification, you need 120 credits as follows:
60 credits from:
Module |
Credits |
Next start |
- Space science (S818)
This module provides an in-depth introduction to the methods of conducting scientific measurements in the space environment and the technologies needed for space missions.
See full description
|
60 |
Jan 2025 |
30 credits from:
30 credits from:
Module |
Credits |
Next start |
- Advanced mathematical methods (M833)
This module uses the Maple computing language to teach: perturbation expansions, accelerated convergence, Padé approximations, asymptotic expansions, eigenvalue problems, and Green’s functions.
See full description
|
30 |
|
- Calculus of variations and advanced calculus (M820)
M820 Calculus of Variations and Advanced Calculus covers functionals, Gâteaux differential, Euler–Lagrange equation, First-integral, Noether’s Theorem, Second variation/Jacobi equation and Sturm–Liouville systems.
See full description
|
30 |
Oct 2024 |
- Coding theory (M836)
This module examines error-detecting and error-correcting codes built on algebraic structures, with associated encoding/decoding procedures and applicability, concluding with elements of cryptography.
See full description
|
30 |
|
- Data management (M816)
Discover the data management principles, practices and technologies required to develop policies, procedures and systems that control, protect, deliver and enhance the value of an organisation’s data asset.
See full description
|
30 |
Nov 2024 |
- Digital forensics (M812)
M812 covers the history of forensics, both criminal and criminal digital law, digital investigation techniques for desktop and mobile devices as well as forensic readiness.
See full description
|
30 |
May 2024 |
- Environmental monitoring and protection (T868)
This engaging online module will equip you with information on monitoring, modelling, and preventive technologies for water, noise, air, and wastes pollution.
See full description
|
30 |
Nov 2024 |
- Finite element analysis: principles and applications (T808) NEW
Learn the basics of finite element modelling of components and materials under static and thermal stresses, and dynamic analysis using ANSYS software.
See full description
|
30 |
Nov 2024 |
- Information security (M811)
Explore the professional and technical skills necessary to understand, document, manage and implement strategic and operational aspects of your organisation’s information security.
See full description
|
30 |
Nov 2024 |
- Manufacture materials design (T805)
Introducing materials processing from the perspective of a design engineer, this module explores how components are made, focusing on the interactions between manufacturing, materials and design.
See full description
|
30 |
May 2024 |
- Network security (T828)
This module includes Cisco CCNA Security and Cyber Security Operations; explore information systems security management and secure internetworked systems.
See full description
|
30 |
Nov 2024 |
- Software development (M813)
Gain the fundamental knowledge and understanding, and analysis and synthesis skills that you will need to develop software artefacts fit for a real-world organisational context.
See full description
|
30 |
May 2024 |
- Software engineering (M814)
Explore the advanced concepts and techniques used throughout the software life cycle, for the effective production and management of large, complex, and long-lived software systems.
See full description
|
30 |
Nov 2024 |
Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued module T804. |
You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 40 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.
Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
Read more detailed information about the learning outcomes, and how they are acquired through teaching, learning and assessment methods.
Credit for previous study elsewhere
If you’ve successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. You should apply for credit transfer as soon as possible, before you register for your first module. For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.
On completion
On successfully completing this course, we’ll award you our Postgraduate Diploma in Space Science and Technology. You’ll be entitled to use the letters PG Dip SpST (Open) after your name.
Regulations
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
How to register
If you want to study for this qualification, read the description and check you meet any specific requirements (for example, some of
our qualifications, require you to be working in a particular environment, or be sponsored by your employer). Then select the
module you wish to study first and ensure it is suitable for you before following the registration procedure for that module.
During the registration procedure you will be asked to declare which qualification you are studying towards.
See a full list of modules available for this qualification