The Master of Science Program in Astronautical Engineering with Thesis is a graduate program offered by the ITU Graduate School with the academic contribution of the Department of Astronautical Engineering at the ITU Faculty of Aeronautics and Astronautics. The program aims to provide advanced theoretical and applied knowledge to students who wish to specialize in space systems, spacecraft, and related engineering technologies.

The medium of instruction of the program is 100% English, and the program is also open to international students. Within the scope of the program, students gain advanced knowledge in fields such as spacecraft design, launch vehicles, space propulsion systems, satellite technologies, spacecraft dynamics and control, the space environment, and space physics.

About the Program

The Master of Science Program in Astronautical Engineering at Istanbul Technical University is a graduate program focused on scientific and technological studies related to space and spacecraft. The program brings together Türkiye’s academic expertise in astronautical engineering with advanced research and applied studies.

The program aims to educate engineers and researchers who can take active roles in industry, academia, research centers, and public institutions in the field of space technologies. It is intended that students graduate as specialists who can follow current scientific and technological developments, conduct independent research, and develop solutions to interdisciplinary engineering problems.

Main Fields of Study

• Spacecraft design and system architectures
• Launch vehicle design
• Space propulsion systems
• Spacecraft dynamics and control
• Satellite technologies and communication systems
• Space environment and space physics
• Celestial mechanics and orbital mechanics
• Spacecraft thermal control
• Space structures and mechanisms
• Spacecraft navigation

Program Profile and Educational Objectives

The main objective of the program is to provide students with advanced knowledge and research skills in space technologies and to prepare them for active roles in academia, industry, and public institutions.

Graduates are expected to use their theoretical and applied knowledge in astronautical engineering effectively; analyze complex and multidisciplinary problems; and develop original solutions through theoretical, numerical, and experimental methods.

The program aims to contribute to the training of qualified human resources needed by Türkiye and the international space sector. In this regard, students are expected to graduate with the knowledge and skills required to work in research centers, universities, public institutions, and high-technology companies.

Learning Environments

The program offers students both theoretical and applied learning opportunities. Courses are conducted face to face and include activities aimed at developing problem-solving, discussion, research, and analytical thinking skills, in addition to the delivery of theoretical knowledge.

Computer laboratories are used in courses that require computational methods and engineering software. Research activities are carried out using the laboratories and research infrastructure within the Department of Astronautical Engineering. During their thesis studies, students are academically guided by their advisor faculty members.

Course Structure and Graduation Requirements

To receive the master’s degree, students must complete a total course load of 24 credits. The program consists of 8 courses in total, including 4 compulsory and 4 elective courses. For graduation, students must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 and successfully complete their thesis.

Students are required to orally defend their thesis before a jury. The thesis must be prepared in accordance with the writing rules determined by the ITU Senate and approved by the thesis advisor. Students whose undergraduate degree is from a field other than Astronautical Engineering must take the scientific preparation courses determined by the program and thesis advisor and complete these courses within the first two semesters.

For the course plan of the Astronautical Engineering Master of Science Program, please click here.

Program Outcomes

• Develop and deepen knowledge in the field of astronautical engineering at an expert level.
• Analyze astronautical engineering problems using theoretical and applied knowledge.
• Understand interdisciplinary interactions and integrate knowledge from different fields.
• Conduct a study requiring expertise independently.
• Communicate effectively in written and spoken form in a foreign language at least at the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
• Observe social, scientific, cultural, and ethical values.
• Use computer software, programming languages, and information technologies at an advanced level.
• Provide leadership and develop strategic approaches in solving problems related to astronautical engineering.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Science Program in Astronautical Engineering with Thesis have broad national and international career opportunities in the rapidly developing space sector. Graduates can work as engineers or researchers in areas such as spacecraft design, propulsion systems, satellite technologies, spacecraft dynamics and control, communication systems, orbital mechanics, and structural analysis.

Graduates may find employment opportunities in public and private sector organizations such as the Turkish Space Agency, TÜBİTAK UZAY, TÜRKSAT, Turkish Aerospace, ASELSAN, ROKETSAN, SAGE, STM, and similar institutions. International space agencies, research centers, global space and defense companies, and next-generation space ventures also offer career opportunities for graduates.

Program Coordinators

Prof. Dr. Melike Nikbay
Email: nikbay@itu.edu.tr
Web: research.itu.edu.tr/tr/persons/nikbay

Prof. Dr. Alim Rustem Aslan
Email: aslanr@itu.edu.tr
Web: research.itu.edu.tr/tr/persons/alim-rustem-aslan

For the program information package, please click here.