MSc Satellite Communications Engineering
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 onto 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 the 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 Astrium Europe-wide and several other major communications companies.
Graduates from this MSc are to be found in key positions in the satellite industry and continue to be much in demand.
Entry standards
A good honours degree in electronic engineering, mathematics, computing or physical sciences. Our normal entry level is a minimum of a good lower second from a good UK university, or overseas equivalent; however, with industrial experience, we can be flexible in our entry requirements.
English language requirements
Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS 6.5 or above, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (or equivalent).
Please note that the University of Surrey offers English language programmes and is also an IELTS Test Centre.
MSc Satellite Communications Engineering - structure and modules
Module Titles
Compulsory Modules
- Satellite Communications A
- Satellite Communications B
- Spacecraft Systems Design
- Research Project and Thesis
Optional Modules (General)
- Antennas and Propagation
- Digital Communications
- Mathematics of Signal Processing
- Packet and Telecoms Networks
- RF Systems and Circuits
Optional Modules (Communications Route)
- Data and Internet Networking
- Network Systems Management
Optional Modules (Spacecraft Engineering Route)
- Advanced Guidance, Navigation and Control
- Launch Vehicles and Propulsion
- Space Robotics
- Spacecraft Bus Systems
Module Overview
Compulsory Modules
Satellite Communications A
This module covers the basics of satellite communication systems and provides the student with the knowledge to design a complete system. It covers earth stations, satellite types, regulation of the spectrum and interference, the propagation channel, air interfaces and fixed and mobile applications. A feature of the module is coverage of the satellite business, major players, financial and business planning. A key element of the module is the assignment on a real system design which replicates what has to be done in the industry.
Spacecraft Systems Design
This module covers the basics of the space environment and spacecraft design. It includes orbit dynamics, power production and conditioning, thermal design, attitude and orbit control, launching and launchers. Detailed system design for communications and earth observation payloads and mission analysis are covered in the module.
Satellite Communications B
This is a more advanced communications module building on Satellite Communications A and giving state-of-the-art aspects of air interface (modulation/coding) and inclusion in DVB and ETSI standards; satellite broadcasting to fixed and mobile terminals; broadband access and vsats; non geostationary constellations and operations with mobile terminals; networking issues of IP over satellite and security; radio resource management and MAC; advanced payload design including multibeam antennas and on board processing as well as inter satellite links.
General Optional Modules
Students can select from a list of fundamental discipline-based options, either to fill in gaps in their undergraduate knowledge or to get a deeper understanding of a discipline. Areas covered are Antennas and Propagation, Digital Communications, Mathematics of Signal Processing, Packet and Telecom Networks and RF and Systems Circuits. These modules are aimed at a basic theoretical understanding rather than practice.
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 Systems Management to incorporate satellite networks. Alternatively if the interest is in satellite/spacecraft production and manufacturing modules on Advanced Guidance, Navigation and Control, 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.
Programme Structure
Our MSc programmes are made up of eight taught modules. Each module is worth 15 credits. A project, worth 60 credits, is introduced in Semester 1 and runs beyond Semester 2. This brings the total to 180 credits for the programme.
The MSc Space Technology and Planetary Exploration comprises eight taught modules, four in Semester 1 and four in Semester 2. Half of these modules are optional modules, enabling you to tailor your programme to match your interests. A Postgraduate Diploma in Space Technology and Planetary Exploration can be awarded if you acquire 120 credits, including at least 60 credits from taught modules.
The first semester of the MSc Satellite Communication Engineering programme covers two compulsory modules in Satellite Communications and Spacecraft Systems Design along with two optional modules. In the second semester the Satellite Communications B module is compulsory. For the remaining modules, you will select a further four optional modules. Students usually specialise in either the communications route or the spacecraft engineering route.
Your project is chosen in Semester 1 and work on it begins in Semester 2 on a part-time basis. In Semester 3 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 semester.
MSc Satellite Communications Engineering - entry standards
Entry standards
A good honours degree in electronic engineering, mathematics, computing or physical sciences. Our normal entry level is a minimum of a good lower second from a good UK university, or overseas equivalent; however, with industrial experience, we can be flexible in our entry requirements.
English language requirements
Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS 6.5 or above, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (or equivalent).
Please note that the University of Surrey offers English language programmes and is also an IELTS Test Centre.
Start date
September
Programme director
MSc Satellite Communications Engineering - fees and funding
Fees
Satellite Communication Engineering (full time):
UK/EU - £6,400
Overseas - £15,015
Satellite Communication Engineering (part time per 15 credits):
UK/EU - £535
Overseas - £1,250
Satellite Engineering (full time):
UK/EU - £6,400
Overseas - £15,015
Satellite Engineering (part time per 15 credits):
UK/EU - £605
Overseas - £1,250
Funding
A few scholarships are available from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and charitable trusts. There are also Commonwealth scholarships available within the University for overseas students, but these are very competitive and early application is vital.
MSc Satellite Communications Engineering - professional context
Links with Industry and International Organisations
We have very close links to satellite and communications companies who use our programmes as their main training ground. Our programmes are supported by the European Space Agency, the UK Industrial Space Committee, and major UK and European space companies including EADS Astrium, SSTL, Logica CMG, NPA Satellite Mapping and Analyticon.
Lectures, visits and projects are provided in association with a large number of key industrial partners. For example, as part of the Satellite Communications A module, there are five industrial lectures to complement the academic presentations.
We have collaborations with organisations in Europe, China, India, Pakistan, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia and the US.
Professional recognition
As an IET-accredited institution, our programmes are admissible under the continuing professional development (CPD) scheme.
Careers
Surrey’s satellite and space technology programmes are renowned internationally and our graduates are highly regarded.
The Satellite Communication Engineering programme provides you with the skills and knowledge to enter the satellite business or to continue on with research.
The Satellite Communications Engineering and Space Technology and Planetary Exploitation programmes are designed to give you the specialist multidisciplinary knowledge and skills required for careers based on working in the satellite and space industries and their applications.
These programmes will therefore make you very attractive to the relevant space-related industries that employ over 6500 people in the UK alone.
MSc Satellite Communications Engineering - teaching
Teaching
Taught Masters programmes in the Department of Electronic Engineering combine world-leading staff with state-of-the-art facilities. We provide a range of learning experiences – lectures, tutorials, directed study, practical laboratories and project work – that will prepare you for your professional life. The academic staff who teach on this programme are all research-active, and the specialist space modules are delivered by staff recognised as world leaders in small satellite technology.
We are particularly keen to develop in all our students a broad range of generic skills to complement the core technical or scientific competencies of their chosen subject area. Our modular programme format, coupled with the increasing use of innovative teaching and learning strategies such as e-learning and industrially focused short courses, provides a flexible study environment whilst maintaining academic rigour and quality.
All modules are assessed by a combination of formal written examinations, taken at the end of each semester, and coursework assignments. For example, in the Satellite Communication A module, satellite systems design work, incorporating link budgets, is assessed as 40 per cent of the overall module work.
You will be assigned a personal tutor who will help you to monitor your progress. Very often this tutor will also be your project supervisor, who will guide you through your project work.
Staff perspective
Professor Barry Evans
This combination has made Surrey a unique centre for satellite training in the UK and, as I have found from my travels, worldwide. Undoubtedly expertise in communications and in satellite/spacecraft production is not available elsewhere.
In developing our satellite programmes we have tried to combine research excellence at the forefront of the subject with practical engineering design as conducted by the industry. A special feature of our programmes is the inclusion of practising engineers, with up-to-the-minute design expertise, who give the students a feel for what industry and a real job is all about.
I have seen how effective this is in recruiting and building up contacts. Many students are captivated by the research going on in our academic groups and stay on to do a PhD using the MSc project as a stepping stone.
As I travel around to conferences and to companies involved with us in joint research projects, I meet many of our former MSc students. It is really satisfying to hear them say that they owe their positions to the satellite programme that they undertook at Surrey – this makes it all worthwhile. Surrey graduates are regarded in the satellite
industry as the top candidates for jobs.
MSc Satellite Communications Engineering - learning
Facilities, Equipment and Support
Through consistent investment, we have built up an impressive infrastructure to support our students and researchers.
The University of Surrey hosts the Surrey Space Centre – a unique facility comprising academics and engineers from our own spin-out company, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. Our Mission Control Centre was designed and developed by students to support international CubeSat operations as part of the GENSO network and it also supports the development of the University’s own educational satellites.
Our teaching laboratories provide ‘hands-on’ experience of satellite design and construction through the use of EyasSAT nano-satellite kits. They also house meteorological satellite receiving stations for the live reception of satellite weather images.
Elsewhere, our fully equipped RF lab has network analyser, signal and satellite link simulations. The Rohde and Schwartz Satellite Networking Laboratory includes DVBS2-RCS generation and measurement equipment, and roof-mounted antennas to pick up satellites. A security test-bed also exists for satellite security evaluation. We have a full range of software support for assignments and project work including Matlab, and you will be able to access system simulators already built in-house.
Satellite Communication Engineering students can also make use of SatNEX, a European Network of Excellence in satellite communications; a satellite platform exists to link the 22 partners around Europe. This is used for virtual meetings, and to participate in lectures and seminars delivered by partners.
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 on 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.
MSc Satellite Communications Engineering - graduate profile
Graduate Profile: Lloyd Wood
MSc Satellite Communication Engineering
During the MSc Satellite Communication Engineering course, I was chosen to spend five months as an exchange student in Toulouse, working on my project on satellite constellation systems such as Iridium. That was enjoyable, so I stayed at Surrey to do a PhD in the Centre for Communication Systems Research.
After five years of ups and downs, including winning two scholarships, I gained a Doctorate on the networking of satellite constellations. By then, I had become known as an expert on how the Internet works. This led to an invitation to join Cisco Systems, a large networking company as a software engineer.
In 2003 I became a founding member of Cisco’s Space Team and I have been back to Guildford regularly to work with Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. They flew a Cisco Internet router running code which I had written onboard the UK-DMC Disaster Monitoring Constellation satellite which I watched being built on campus. Coming to Surrey to do the Masters gave me a good grounding in satellite-specific topics, filled in gaps in my communications knowledge from my earlier studies and contributed directly to my career and the expertise I use daily working with satellites and networking.
MSc Satellite Communications Engineering - more
Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd
The Surrey Space Centre houses both space academic activity and part of the University’s space spin-out company, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL). This ensures close links between our degree programmes and the industrial activity of this cutting-edge space research company.
SSTL was originally formed in 1985 by a small group of academic researchers, whose pioneering spirit has helped it to become a leader in space technology. Since 2000, SSTL has grown by approximately 20 per cent each year and now employs over 300 people, generating sales of more than £24 million per year – two thirds of which are export contracts. It has been involved in 27 space missions, many of which are or have been operated from the Mission Control Centre.
SSTL has formed its own spin-out company, DMCii, to exploit the imaging data generated by its recent highly successful constellation of Earth-imaging micro-satellites. These satellites are playing a major role in providing timely and detailed satellite imagery for humanitarian purposes. For example, Surrey’s Beijing-1 satellite was the major source of humanitarian imagery during the 2008 China earthquake disaster, enabling the assessment of damage and the planning of rescue efforts over the vast area affected. SSTL also designed, built and launched Giove-A – the first of Europe’s Galileo navigation satellites.
Recently, SSTL was acquired by EADS Astrium, one of the world’s leaders in space transportation, spacecraft and satellite services including prime contractor for Ariane 5, the Columbus space laboratory, the Automated Transfer Vehicle for the International Space Station, its leading-edge large and complex geostationary telecommunications satellites, and the Skynet 5 secure communications system for the UK Ministry of Defence. SSTL will complement Astrium UK’s existing space capabilities that include space transportation, satellites and services. The University continues to work closely with SSTL and EADS Astrium in developing innovation in space technology.
MSc Satellite Communications Engineering - apply
You can apply for this programme online using the link(s) below. We recommend making an application as soon as you can, even if you do not have all the necessary supporting information ready at that time.
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Start date
September
Programme length
12 months full-time, up to 48 months part-time
Programme director
For general enquiries
T: 0800 980 3200 or
+44 (0)1483 681681
E: pg-enquiries@surrey.ac.uk
For admissions enquiries
T: +44 (0)1483 686069
E: feps-pg@surrey.ac.uk