Master of Space Operations (Canberra)
- Commencing Terms
- Semester 1 & 2
- Duration
- 1 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Online
- Campus
-
Canberra
- Codes
- Program code 8624
- CRICOS code -
-
2025 Indicative first year full fee
- $38,500*
-
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $38,500*
-
2025 Indicative first year full fee
- $48,000*
-
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $49,000*
Fees
Fees
-
Fully online
-
Optional research project
-
One year full-time
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
Help shape the future of the global space industry with UNSW Canberra’s Master of Space Operations. Gain the technical expertise and strategic insight to lead and innovate in the fast-evolving space sector. From satellite systems to space missions, you'll build the skills to excel in space operations across government, Defence and private industry.
Being home to Australia’s leading space capability, UNSW Canberra offers unparalleled access to cutting-edge space technology and world-class facilities. You’ll work alongside experts in space systems, learning how to design, plan and operate spacecraft that push the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you aspire to manage satellite networks or launch new space ventures, this program prepares you for high-impact roles in the space sector.
Graduating with a Master of Space Operations opens doors to exciting career paths, from mission planning and space systems engineering to policy development and entrepreneurship. Join a new generation of space professionals driving progress and shaping the future of space exploration.
Key features
Unrivalled space facilities
Gain hands-on experience with Australia’s first space mission concurrent engineering design facility, alongside state-of-the-art resources like the Falcon Telescope, cleanroom and satellite ground stations.
Accelerated career path
With a strong focus on both managerial and technical skills, you’ll be ready to take on leadership roles in space operations. Whether you’re looking to work as a satellite controller, space policy analyst, or space entrepreneur, this degree will fast-track your leadership journey.
Research and innovation opportunities
UNSW Canberra offers unique opportunities for students to engage in original research and innovation. With an optional research project, you can explore cutting-edge topics, contribute to ground-breaking discoveries, or prepare for a higher research degree.
Why study at UNSW Canberra?
Australia’s largest space capability
Study at the forefront of space research and innovation with UNSW Canberra’s unmatched space facilities and expertise. As the nation’s leader in space education, UNSW Canberra gives you access to the latest technology, with real-world projects that will set you apart in the competitive space industry.
Learn from industry leaders
Be mentored by top experts in space systems, Defence and space operations. UNSW Canberra’s academic staff are not only leading researchers but also deeply connected with industry and government, ensuring you gain relevant, up-to-date insights to propel your career.
Global career prospects
Our strong industry connections and global reputation as leaders in the space sector provide a springboard for your career. Graduates of this degree are in demand worldwide, whether you aim to work in government, Defence, or the burgeoning commercial space industry.
Want to see more from UNSW Canberra at ADFA?
Entry requirements
Please refer to the UNSW Handbook for the Entry Requirements.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
Please refer to the UNSW Handbook for the Entry Requirements.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
Program structure
The Master of Space Operations at UNSW Canberra is delivered by the School of Engineering and Information Technology. Students will complete 48 Units of Credit (UOC), made up of four core courses and four elective courses.
You’ll study core topics like space mission design, satellite communications and space systems engineering. You’ll also explore the economic and strategic drivers of the global space industry. With a mix of technical and managerial courses, this program equips you to lead and innovate in space operations.
There’s also an option for students to dive into an area of interest with an independent research project.
Full program structure
This program contains a total of 48 units of credit (UOC) and can be completed in one year of full-time study. Students must complete:
-
This program contains a total of 48 units of credit (UOC) and can be completed in one year of full-time study.
Core courses - 24 UOC
- Space Operations
- Space Systems Technology
- Space Systems Engineering Management
- Space Cooperation, Conflict and Competition
Prescribed Electives - Up to 24 UOC
- Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)
- Cyber Resilience: Management Governance and Acquisition
- Information Assurance Principles
- Satellite Communications
- Spaceborne Imaging Technology
- Requirements Practice
- Test and Evaluation
- Project Management Body of Knowledge
- Capability Option Analysis
- Applied Machine Learning
- Global Security
- Australian Defence Policy: Concepts and Challenges
- Contemporary Strategy
- International Law in Global Politics
- Military Game Changers in 21st Century Warfare
- Human Factors and the Technological Interface
- Understanding Social-Technical Systems: Ideas, Spaces and Cultures
Research Project - Up to 12 UOC
- Project Report – Engineering Science Part-Time
- Project Report – Engineering Science Full-Time
- Research Thesis A
- Space Operations
- Space Systems Technology
- Space Systems Engineering Management
- Space Cooperation, Conflict and Competition
-
- Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)
- Cyber Resilience: Management Governance and Acquisition
- Information Assurance Principles
- Satellite Communications
- Spaceborne Imaging Technology
- Requirements Practice
- Test and Evaluation
- Project Management Body of Knowledge
- Capability Option Analysis
- Applied Machine Learning
- Global Security
- Australian Defence Policy: Concepts and Challenges
- Contemporary Strategy
- International Law in Global Politics
- Military Game Changers in 21st Century Warfare
- Human Factors and the Technological Interface
- Understanding Social-Technical Systems: Ideas, Spaces and Cultures
-
- Project Report – Engineering Science Part-Time
- Project Report – Engineering Science Full-Time
- Research Thesis A
Future careers
Graduates of the Master of Space Operations are entering a rapidly expanding global space industry, where innovation and technological advancement are key. From satellite management to space policy analysis, career opportunities span government, defence and private sectors. As space systems become critical to communication, security and exploration, you’ll be equipped to drive progress and tackle the challenges of this dynamic industry.
Potential roles
- Aerospace Engineer
- Astronautical Engineer
- Defence Consultant
- Launch Operations Specialist
- Mission Analyst
- Mission Controller
- Orbital Analyst
- Payload Systems Engineer
- Project Manager
- Satellite Operations Engineer
- Satellite Systems Analyst
- Space Operations Coordinator
- Space Policy Analyst
- Space Systems Engineer
- Spacecraft Operations Engineer
- Systems Integration Engineer
- Test Engineer
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through our Apply Online portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. Some high-demand programs and Faculties with limited places may have an earlier application deadline or commencement date. Find out more.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.
Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the program. The indicative fees listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).
You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
