Open University

MSc in ruimtewetenschap en -technologie

The qualification provides opportunities for you to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, qualities, skills and other attributes in the following areas:

Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this master's degree, you will have knowledge and understanding of:

• The space environment within the Solar System
• The design and operation of space-based instrumentation
• The aspects of space mission design and operation relevant to scientific applications
• Scientific debates within planetary and space sciences, based on current research findings

Cognitive skills

On completion of this master's degree, you will be able to:

• Critically evaluate methodologies of scientific measurement in the space environment
• Select and apply appropriate mathematical methods for modelling and analysing science and engineering data obtained in the space environment
• Critically evaluate current research in space and planetary sciences and associated areas
• Analyse and address complex technical situations through the application of appropriate scientific, engineering or computing techniques

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this master's degree, you will be able to:

• Plan and carry out a scientific investigation using data from space-based instrumentation
• Plan, manage and conduct a research project in space science or space technology
• Demonstrate a professional approach to practice (proficiency in skills relevant to employment or research in the space sector, e.g. teamwork, showing evidence of the use of initiative and personal responsibility)

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

Stage 1 (60 credits)

60 credits from:

• Space science (S818)

Stage 2 (60 credits)

30 credits from:

List A

• Making Strategy with Systems Thinking in Practice (TB871)
• Managing Change with Systems Thinking in Practice (TB872)
• Project Management (M815)
• Strategic Capabilities for Technological Innovation (T849)
• Technology Innovation Management (TB801)

Or, subject to the rules about excluded combinations, the discontinued modules T848 and U810.

30 credits from:

List B

• Advanced Mathematical Methods (M833)
• Calculus of Variations and Advanced Calculus (M820)
• Coding Theory (M836)
• Data Management (M816)
• Digital Forensics (M812)
• Environmental Monitoring and Protection (T868)
• Finite Element Analysis: Principles and Applications (T808) NEW
• Information Security (M811)
• Manufacture Materials Design (T805)
• Network Security (T828)
• Software Development (M813)
• Software Engineering (M814)

Stage 3 (60 credits)

60 credits from:

• Masters level project in physical sciences (SXS841)

You should note that the University’s unique study rule applies to this qualification. This means that you must include at least 60 credits from OU modules that have not been counted in any other OU qualification that has previously been awarded to you.

Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

You will learn through two interrelated methods. Firstly, using a range of specially written study materials, case studies, original texts, study guides and assignments, and through a range of multi-media material. Secondly, you are allocated a tutor who is your first and main point of contact.

Your tutor answers queries on study materials, grades and comments on your work, and, depending on which module you are studying, may arrange online tutorials. You are also encouraged to participate in online discussion forums for the module(s) you are studying. This gives you a chance to share and resolve issues with fellow students, as well as with tutors and the module team.

Formative assessment in the form of informal activities and self-assessed questions (SAQs) allows you to assess your own progress and understanding. Formal assessment of the knowledge and understanding components of the programme is achieved by a series of tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) – usually three for each 30-credit module.

These assignments are marked and assessed by your tutor. They are central to the teaching of the module since they allow you an opportunity to display your knowledge and understanding. This will enable tutors to identify any issues concerning either and provide appropriate feedback.

Although assignments are usually undertaken on an individual basis, some modules have group-based assignments that use online discussion forums. Modules may also include computer-marked assignments or examination papers. Currently, most modules within the technology management programme include an end-of-module assessment, in place of an examination.

Cognitieve vaardigheden in het programma worden ontwikkeld door middel van een reeks activiteiten binnen de modules van het programma. Casestudies en andere verhalen over hoe technologie wordt beheerd, stellen u in staat om de problemen rond technologiebeheer aan te pakken en passende analyse-, evaluatie- en probleemoplossende vaardigheden te ontwikkelen. Modules beschrijven formeel een reeks methoden en technieken die worden gebruikt binnen technologiemanagement en u wordt aangemoedigd om er gebruik van te maken en na te denken over het gebruik ervan.

Bij het uitvoeren van de laatste module van de MSc (een masterproef gebaseerd op een onderzoeksproject naar keuze) is er uitgebreide ruimte voor het ontwikkelen van een kritische benadering van technologiemanagement.

Bewijs van vaardigheidsniveaus zal ook duidelijk zijn in alle opdrachten en docenten zullen commentaar geven op bewijs van vaardigheden, evenals op aangetoonde niveaus van kennis en begrip.

Bij instroom in de opleiding Technologiemanagement wordt van je verwacht dat je ervaring hebt in technologiemanagement, een technisch specialisme of algemeen management en/of administratie waarbij je bijzondere interesse hebt getoond in de technologische dimensies van organisatie en management. Als zodanig zou je al veel belangrijke vaardigheden moeten hebben verworven. Met het programma kun je deze vervolgens demonstreren en verder ontwikkelen.

Studiemateriaal en ondersteuning van uw docent zullen u helpen uw vaardigheden te ontwikkelen bij het beheren van uw eigen leerproces. Zo verwachten veel modules dat je grotendeels onder eigen regie en initiatief werkt. Er wordt van u verwacht dat u nadenkt over uw prestaties, uw leerbehoeften identificeert en vervolgens passende leerstrategieën ontwikkelt.

Deze kwalificatie is direct relevant voor wetenschappelijke en technische carrières in de ruimtevaartsector. Het is met name relevant voor functies die te maken hebben met het verkrijgen, verwerken en interpreteren van gegevens die zijn verkregen door ruimtegebaseerde instrumentatie.