The space sector is constantly looking for highly-skilled experts with an interdisciplinary perspective. However, it is this interdisciplinary background which is currently lacking for most new graduates, who have typically specialised in only one of the fields related to space science. Our students develop critical knowledge skills regarding relevant technological sectors, exact and biomedical sciences, space-related law and policy, and economics encompassing space industry, business and management.

The Master of Space Studies aims to cater to these new opportunities by equipping students with the interdisciplinary expertise the space sector is currently looking for. The Master of Space studies trains students in innovative space projects through the symbiosis between technological, quantitative and biomedical sciences, while at the same time supplying them with the economic and policy skills needed to navigate the current legal and political regulations.

Programme strenghts:

• Thanks to the interuniversity effort of the programme, students get embedded in the academic research expertise of two highly-ranked Belgian universities, KU Leuven and Ghent University.
• In addition to coursework in space sciences, the curriculum is enriched by a series of guest lecturers from international, national and regional institutions.
• Extracurricular initiatives, including visits to the European Astronaut Center in Cologne and the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) of ESA in The Netherlands, bring the students in contact with actors in the different fields of space studies, allowing students to interact with research experts, industry leaders, policymakers, and to  exchange ideas, grow their network and explore new career opportunities.

Admission criteria:

The interdisciplinary Master of Space Studies programme is open to students who have already obtained a Master's degree. Applicants should present their CV and a comprehensive motivation letter upon applying.

Student profile:

The ideal prospective student:

• has successfully completed an initial Master's programme in a domain relevant to space studies;
• has the potential to successfully broaden his/her formation towards other relevant disciplines;
• is able to present a convincing case for the importance of the programme with respect to their professional expectations.