Astronautical Engineering

The Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering at the University of Southern California offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in the fundamental principles and advanced technologies that underpin space systems and aerospace engineering. This program is designed for students who are passionate about exploring the frontiers of space, developing innovative spacecraft, and contributing to the future of human and robotic space exploration. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical hands-on experience, enabling graduates to develop problem-solving skills applicable to a wide range of aerospace challenges. Core topics include orbital mechanics, spacecraft design, control systems, propulsion, guidance and navigation, systems engineering, and space mission analysis. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as satellite technology, space mission planning, or aerospace data analysis through elective courses. The program emphasizes the importance of integrating multidisciplinary approaches, encouraging collaboration among students and faculty with backgrounds in engineering, physics, and computer science. State-of-the-art laboratories and facilities provide students with access to the latest tools and technologies used in the aerospace industry. Additionally, the program fosters strong connections with industry partners, government agencies, and research institutions, offering valuable internships, research projects, and networking opportunities. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in aerospace companies, governmental space agencies, research institutions, and academia, contributing to innovations in satellite technology, spacecraft systems, and space exploration missions. With a focus on both theoretical foundations and practical applications, the USC Astronautical Engineering master's program prepares students to become leaders in the dynamic and rapidly evolving aerospace sector.

Core Requirement (12 Units)

• ASTE 470 Spacecraft Propulsion Units: 3
• ASTE 520 Spacecraft System Design Units: 3
• ASTE 535 Space Environments and Spacecraft Interactions Units: 3
• ASTE 580 Orbital Mechanics I Units: 3

Core Elective Requirement (9 Units — Choose Three Courses)

• ASTE 501a Physical Gas Dynamics Units: 3
• ASTE 501b Physical Gas Dynamics Units: 3
• ASTE 523 Design of Low Cost Space Missions Units: 3
• ASTE 527 Space Studio Architecting Units: 3
• ASTE 529 Safety of Space Systems and Space Missions Units: 3
• ASTE 552 Spacecraft Thermal Control Units: 3
• ASTE 553 Systems for Remote Sensing from Space Units: 3
• ASTE 554 Spacecraft Sensors Units: 3
• ASTE 556 Spacecraft Structural Dynamics Units: 3
• ASTE 557 Spacecraft Structural Strength and Materials Units: 3
• ASTE 570 Liquid Rocket Propulsion Units: 3
• ASTE 572 Advanced Spacecraft Propulsion Units: 3
• ASTE 581 Orbital Mechanics II Units: 3
• ASTE 583 Space Navigation: Principles and Practice Units: 3
• ASTE 584 Spacecraft Power Systems Units: 3
• ASTE 585 Spacecraft Attitude Control Units: 3
• ASTE 586 Spacecraft Attitude Dynamics Units: 3

Technical Elective Requirement (6 Units)

Two 3-unit courses. Students are advised to select these two elective courses from the list of core electives or from other courses in astronautical engineering or from other science and engineering graduate courses, as approved by the faculty adviser. No more than 3 units of directed research (ASTE 590) can be applied to the 27-unit requirement. New courses on emerging space technologies are often offered; consult the current semester's course offerings, particularly for ASTE 599 Special Topics.

Note:

At least 21 units must be at the 500 or 600 level.

Areas of Concentration:

Students choose core elective and technical elective courses that best meet their educational objectives. Students can also concentrate their studies in the desired areas by selecting corresponding core elective courses. Presently, ASTE faculty suggest the following areas of concentration:

Spacecraft Propulsion

Choose two core electives from:

• ASTE 501a Physical Gas Dynamics Units: 3
• ASTE 501b Physical Gas Dynamics Units: 3
• ASTE 570 Liquid Rocket Propulsion Units: 3
• ASTE 572 Advanced Spacecraft Propulsion Units: 3
• ASTE 584 Spacecraft Power Systems Units: 3

Spacecraft Dynamics

Choose two core electives from:

• ASTE 556 Spacecraft Structural Dynamics Units: 3
• ASTE 557 Spacecraft Structural Strength and Materials Units: 3
• ASTE 581 Orbital Mechanics II Units: 3
• ASTE 583 Space Navigation: Principles and Practice Units: 3
• ASTE 585 Spacecraft Attitude Control Units: 3
• ASTE 586 Spacecraft Attitude Dynamics Units: 3

Space Systems Design

Choose two core electives from:

• ASTE 523 Design of Low Cost Space Missions Units: 3
• ASTE 527 Space Studio Architecting Units: 3
• ASTE 529 Safety of Space Systems and Space Missions Units: 3
• ASTE 557 Spacecraft Structural Strength and Materials Units: 3

Spacecraft Systems

Choose two core electives from:

• ASTE 552 Spacecraft Thermal Control Units: 3
• ASTE 553 Systems for Remote Sensing from Space Units: 3
• ASTE 554 Spacecraft Sensors Units: 3
• ASTE 584 Spacecraft Power Systems Units: 3

Space Applications

Choose two core electives from:

• ASTE 527 Space Studio Architecting Units: 3
• ASTE 553 Systems for Remote Sensing from Space Units: 3
• ASTE 554 Spacecraft Sensors Units: 3

• An undergraduate degree in engineering or science from a regionally-accredited university. (Mathematics, applied mathematics and computer science majors are welcome to apply if they have taken the equivalent of the three Physics courses usually required for engineering majors: 151Lg - Mechanics & Thermodynamics, 152L - Electricity & Magnetism, and 153L - Optics & Modern Physics.)
• Satisfactory cumulative undergraduate GPA (grade point average)
• Satisfactory GRE test scores. All scores must be officially reported to the university directly by ETS.
• Satisfactory performance in previous coursework related to the intended major.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
• Letters of Recommendation (2 Required): Letters of recommendation should be from faculty or others (supervisors, professional colleagues, etc.) qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate study.
• Statement of Purpose (Optional): The statement of purpose should describe succinctly your reasons for applying to the proposed program at the Viterbi School of Engineering, your preparation for this field of study, study interests, future career plans, and other aspects of your background and interests which may aid the admissions committee in evaluating your aptitude and motivation for graduate study.
• Resume/CV (Required)
• English Language Proficiency: In addition to the general admission criteria listed above, international students whose first language is not English are required to take the TOEFL or IELTS examination to be considered a candidate for admission.  There is no minimum TOEFL or IELTS score required for admission to the Viterbi School. For possible exemption from additional language requirements, you must achieve an Internet Based TOEFL (iBT) score of 90, with no less than 20 on each section or an IELTS score of 6.5, with no less than 6 on each band score. 

The Astronautical Engineering program at the University of Southern California offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the technical expertise and practical skills necessary for careers in the aerospace and space industries. Funding and financing options for students enrolled in this program include a range of scholarships, grants, fellowships, and financial aid opportunities provided by the university, government agencies, and private organizations. USC's Office of Financial Aid provides tailored assistance to prospective and current students, guiding them through application processes for federal and state financial aid programs such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Additionally, the university offers several merit-based scholarships specifically for engineering students, which can significantly offset tuition costs. Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including industry-sponsored scholarships, research assistantships, and fellowships aimed at students pursuing advanced degrees or specialized research areas in astronautical engineering. Graduate students may also have access to teaching and research assistant positions, which provide a stipend and tuition remission, further reducing the financial burden of their studies.

USC is committed to supporting students financially throughout their academic journey, recognizing the importance of accessible education in fostering innovation in space technology. Students interested in funding their studies should consult the university’s financial aid office early in their academic planning process to identify all available resources and to ensure timely application submissions. Overall, the combination of institutional, federal, state, and private sector funding options makes pursuing an Astronautical Engineering degree at USC a feasible and attractive opportunity for many qualified students.

The University of Southern California offers a comprehensive program in Astronautical Engineering through its renowned Viterbi School of Engineering. This program is designed to equip students with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills necessary for careers in space technology, satellite systems, spacecraft design, and aerospace research. The curriculum integrates core engineering principles with specialized courses focusing on orbital mechanics, spacecraft systems, propulsion, and space mission design. Students have opportunities to engage in hands-on projects, research initiatives, and collaborations with industry partners, preparing them for effective participation in the aerospace sector. The program also emphasizes innovation, system design, and the integration of cutting-edge technology into space missions. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, students pursuing Astronautical Engineering at USC can participate in pioneering projects, contributing to advancements in space exploration. The faculty comprises leading experts and researchers in the field of aerospace engineering, providing mentorship and guidance throughout the educational journey. Graduates of this program are well-positioned for careers in aerospace industries, government agencies like NASA, and academic research, advancing space exploration and satellite technology. The degree combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, fostering an environment that encourages innovation and creative problem-solving in the dynamic and challenging field of astronautical engineering.