Structure of the programme
The programme is designed to integrate the field of science and engineering, bringing together students from various backgrounds. This mix of perspectives enhances performance by bringing together diverse mindsets.
Curriculum
With their diverse backgrounds and perspectives, students enrich each other's learning experience. This interdisciplinary approach maximises the potential of each student, creating an environment that brings out innovative ideas.
At the start of the Master's studies, students develop a learning agreement in consultation with their tutor, outlining their planned coursework. This agreement must be reviewed and approved by the tutor. While the deep track typically aligns with the tutor’s area of expertise, this is not a strict requirement and may vary depending on the cohort size.
All students must complete the core courses to establish a common foundation across diverse academic backgrounds. Together with two out of three scientific introductory courses, these ensure a shared understanding of key principles in science and engineering.
Students begin engaging with their chosen deep track in the second semester building specialised expertise based on their learning agreement. Elective courses offer opportunities to explore interdisciplinary topics or deepen expertise within the chosen deep track.
The third core course "Case Studies Seminar and Semester Project" completes the training, focusing on space systems in economic and societal context, as well as interdisciplinary team project work. It consists of two parts: A semester-long case studies class and a project integrated into a group at ETH or another institute. Through this course, students prepare for their Master's thesis, which they can undertake individually or as a group work. The Master's thesis can be written either at ETH or in the industry.
Alongside the mandatory core courses, students continue to take deep track-specific and elective courses throughout the second year.
Case studies semester project
The mission project of the Core Course 3 provides students with the opportunity to engage directly with the development of a real-world space mission. It serves as a practical extension of the foundational concepts introduced in Core Course 1, enabling students to apply their knowledge in a realistic, mission-driven context.
Master's thesis
The Master’s thesis provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent, scientific research. The Master's thesis may be thematically linked to the semester project of the core course 3.
With the supervisor’s approval, the Master’s thesis may also be completed as a group project. In such cases, the division of tasks and the assessment criteria are jointly defined by the students and the supervisor.