If you enrolled before the 2025/2026 academic year, consult the list of Programmes and Regulations available on your School website.
The information provided about the programme refers to the academic year 2025/26 and may be subject to change in the academic year 2026/27.
MSc in Space Engineering
The Master’s Degree in Space Engineering educates engineers capable of designing, developing, and managing space systems and missions in one of the most technologically advanced and strategically important sectors worldwide. From defining the architecture of a satellite to ensuring its operational performance in orbit, from analyzing interplanetary trajectories to developing innovative propulsion systems, the space engineer plays a key role in advancing technologies for the exploration and utilization of space.
The space sector is currently undergoing a profound transformation: new satellite constellations, increasingly ambitious scientific missions, and applications in telecommunications, navigation, environmental monitoring, and security are reshaping the role of space in contemporary society. In this dynamic and international landscape, the space engineer is central to integrating scientific, technological, and systems-level expertise into reliable, safe, and innovative solutions.
The program provides advanced and multidisciplinary training, enabling students to acquire a comprehensive understanding of complex space systems and to develop the ability to tackle highly technological engineering challenges within a global and strongly innovation-driven context.
A Bachelor’s degree is a prerequisite for admission to the Master’s Degree program.
Admission to the Master’s Degree in Space Engineering requires a solid background in fundamental mathematical, physical, and engineering disciplines, consistent with the educational objectives of the program. The reference academic pathway is a first-level degree in Aerospace Engineering or in closely related fields, ensuring adequate knowledge in mechanics, system dynamics, materials science, and the fundamentals of energy and propulsion systems.
Admission is subject to an evaluation of the applicant’s academic record, aimed at verifying the adequacy of the candidate’s preparation. The Evaluation Committee, appointed by the Study Program Board, assesses the curriculum, grade point average, and final degree mark, taking into account the consistency of the applicant’s academic background with the learning objectives of the Master’s program.
In the case of academic backgrounds that are not fully aligned with the reference pathway, the Committee may conduct an overall assessment of the candidate’s preparation, also considering any documented elements of excellence.
With regard to the prerequisite of English language proficiency, applicants are referred to the University’s enrollment procedures.
For further details, please refer to the Programme Regulations, Section 6
Holding a Bachelor’s degree obtained abroad, equivalent to a first-level degree, constitutes a prerequisite for admission to the Master’s Degree program.
Admission is subject to verification of the comparability of the degree and to an assessment of the consistency of the applicant’s academic background with the objectives of the Master’s Degree in Space Engineering. Adequate preparation in mathematical and physical disciplines, as well as in the main areas of aerospace or mechanical engineering, is required.
The Evaluation Committee reviews the applicant’s academic curriculum, academic performance, and any additional elements that may demonstrate the strength of the candidate’s preparation.
Proficiency in English is a fundamental requirement, as the program is delivered primarily in English. For details regarding the verification process, applicants are referred to the University’s admission procedures.
For further information, please refer to the Programme Regulations, Section 6
The Master’s Degree in Space Engineering is a two-year program delivered primarily in English, designed to train specialists in the design and management of complex space systems.
During the first year, students strengthen their advanced foundations in space engineering through courses covering orbital flight dynamics, space system design, propulsion, structures and loads in the space environment, as well as onboard systems. The objective is to provide analytical and design tools to understand the behavior of spacecraft and their subsystems throughout the different phases of a mission. Particular emphasis is placed on a systems-level perspective: each satellite or spacecraft is the result of the integration of interdependent subsystems that must operate in a coordinated manner under extreme conditions. In the first year, students also select two elective courses from complementary subject areas related to space engineering.
In the second year, the program is enriched by elective courses that allow students to tailor their study plan according to their professional and scientific interests. Students may deepen their knowledge in areas such as satellite platform design and integration; attitude control systems and advanced orbital dynamics; chemical and electric propulsion; lightweight structures and advanced materials for space applications; mission analysis and space operations; satellite communication and navigation systems.
The program concludes with the Master’s Thesis, a high-level design or research experience, often carried out in collaboration with aerospace companies, research centers, or international institutions. The thesis represents a key moment for integrating the competencies acquired during the program and for engaging directly with real-world challenges in the space sector.
Graduates of the Master’s Degree in Space Engineering are professionals capable of operating with autonomy and technical responsibility in highly complex technological environments. The skills acquired enable them to design and develop space systems and subsystems; contribute to the definition and analysis of satellite and interplanetary missions; integrate and verify propulsion, structural, power, and control systems; and use advanced tools for modeling, simulation, and performance analysis. Particular attention is also devoted to developing the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and in highly innovative international contexts.
The educational background of Master’s graduates in Space Engineering prepares them for positions of responsibility in areas such as aerospace industries engaged in the design and production of satellites, launch vehicles, and space infrastructure; companies operating in satellite services, telecommunications, and Earth observation; public and private research and development centers; and national and international space agencies. Graduates may also pursue a professional engineering career, subject to passing the State Examination and registering in Section A of the Professional Register of Engineers.
It is also possible to continue the academic path through a PhD in Aerospace Engineering or in related fields.
School of Industrial and Information Engineering
Department of Aerospace Science and Technology
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Programme Coordinator/Chair: Prof. Pierluigi Di Lizia (pierluigi.dilizia@polimi.it)
Programme Secretary: Prof. Filippo Maggi (filippo.maggi@polimi.it)
Study Plan Coordinator: Prof. Paolo Lunghi (paolo.lunghi@polimi.it)
Admissions Coordinators: Prof. Giulio Gori (giulio.gori@polimi.it), Mauro Massari (mauro.massari@polimi.it)
Transfers and Internal Mobility Coordinator: Prof Stefano Cacciola (stefano.cacciola@polimi.it)
Academic Guidance Coordinator: Prof Paolo Bettini (paolo.bettini@polimi.it)
Student Representatives: rappresentantistudenti-ccsaerospaziale@polimi.it
Academic office - Aerospace Engineering: didattica-daer@polimi.it