University of Surrey
Surrey, England, UK
12mths full-time; 60mths part-time
Surrey’s satellite and space technology programmes are renowned internationally and our graduates are highly regarded.
Our course in Satellite Communications Engineering is designed to give you the specialist multidisciplinary skills required for careers based on working in the satellite and space industries and their applications. Our programme will therefore make you very attractive to the relevant space-related industries that employ over 6,500 people in the UK alone.
Programme overview
Surrey is at the forefront of satellite communications research and training. This MSc is unique in Europe in equipping students with the necessary background to enter the satellite industry or to continue on to a research degree.
We have a unique concentration of academic staff experienced in the satellite area, as well as developed contacts with all the major satellite manufacturers, operators and service providers. Industry participates in the MSc programme in both lecturing and projects, and facilitates excellent engagement for our students.
Our own spin-out company, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, is situated close by on the Surrey Research Park and provides ready access to satellite production and industrial facilities. In addition, we have a strategic relationship with EADS Airbus Europe-wide and several other major communications companies. Graduates from this MSc are to be found in key positions in the satellite industry (Inmarsat, Airbus, SSTL, SES, Eutelsat etc) and continue to be much in demand.
Why not read about past and present student experiences of our electronic engineering programmes, including Christopher Lord, Christos Merkouris and Prashant Butani?
Programme structure
Our MSc programmes are made up of eight taught modules. Each module is worth 15 credits. A project, worth 60 credits, runs over the year. This brings the total to 180 credits for the programme.
Your project is chosen in Semester 1 and work on it begins in Semester 2 on a part-time basis. Over the summer (project) period you will be working on your project on a full-time basis, with final report and a viva voce assessment conducted at the end of the academic year.
Module overview
Compulsory modules:
- Satellite Communications Fundamentals
- Space Systems Design
- Advanced Satellite Communications Techniques
General optional modules:
- Antennas and Propagation
- Digital Communications
- Applied Mathematics for Communications Systems
- Principles of Telecom and Packet Networks
- RF Systems and Circuit Design
Specific optional modules
These specific optional modules allow the student to customise the MSc to their personal interests or orientate to a particular job market. Thus a communications route would take Data and Internet Networking and Network and Service Management and Control to incorporate satellite networks. Alternatively, if your interest is in satellite/spacecraft production and manufacturing, then modules on Advanced Guidance, Navigation and Control, Dynamics and Control of Spacecraft, Launch Vehicles and Propulsion, and Space Robotics would be preferred.
These modules are detailed and state of the art in each area.
The above gives you a wide range of possibilities for personalising an MSc that suits your individual needs.
Project
The project is a major part of the programme. It is designed to enable you to demonstrate your skills and ability to solve real-life problems, while gaining more detailed knowledge of a particular topic. It can be theoretical, simulation-based or experimental. In all cases, you are expected to show innovation and an ability to come up with your own solutions.
Projects can either be carried out within a research group or, when the project is based on a practical problem suggested by industry, at the partner organisation’s premises. Participants have worked with INMARSAT, Logica, BT, Astrium, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL) and a number of small local companies.
Entry requirements
An honours degree in electronic engineering, mathematics, computing or physical sciences. Our minimum entry level is a 2.2 from a good UK university, or overseas equivalent. Relevant industrial experience will also be considered.
How to apply
For more information on the course and how to apply please visit the course website.
General enquiries:
+44 (0)1483 681 681
Admissions enquiries:
+44 (0)1483 682 222
admissions@surrey.ac.uk