University of Sharjah

What you'll study

This programme builds advanced theoretical and practical skills across astronomy and space sciences. Students follow a mix of compulsory and elective modules and complete a substantial research project or thesis under academic supervision.

• Core topics: stellar and galactic astrophysics, cosmology, radiative processes, celestial mechanics and planetary science.
• Observational and instrumentation skills: observational techniques, photometry and spectroscopy, telescope and detector technology, data reduction and analysis.
• Space science and engineering: satellite systems and mission design fundamentals, space environment and plasma physics, remote sensing principles and applications.
• Computational methods: scientific programming (e.g. Python/IDL), numerical modelling, statistical methods for large datasets and machine-learning approaches used in astronomical data analysis.
• Research project/thesis: an independent research project supervised by faculty, typically involving observational data analysis, instrument development, or theoretical/numerical modelling, culminating in a written thesis and oral viva.
• Optional modules and seminars: topics in exoplanets, high-energy astrophysics, astrochemistry, and seminars on current research and regional space initiatives.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in physics, astronomy, space engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related science or engineering discipline. Academic performance at the undergraduate level should demonstrate the ability to undertake postgraduate study.

• Official academic transcripts and a recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.
• Evidence of quantitative and laboratory skills; applicants with degrees in related subjects may be asked to show preparatory coursework in mathematics and physics.
• English language proficiency demonstrated by an accepted test or an equivalent qualification where required.
• Supporting documents such as a statement of purpose outlining research interests, and at least one academic reference. Candidates with relevant professional experience in the space sector may also be considered.
• Meeting any additional departmental requirements or interview assessments where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of roles in academia, industry and government space programmes. The degree provides both the theoretical grounding and practical experience that employers value.

• Research positions and PhD study in astronomy, astrophysics and space science.
• Employment with national and regional space agencies, satellite operators and mission teams in roles such as mission planning, payload science, and data analysis.
• Roles in the satellite and remote sensing industry, including earth observation applications, image processing and geospatial analysis.
• Technical posts in observatories and planetaria, instrumentation and detector development, and aerospace companies.
• Data-science and analytics roles where skills in large-data handling, modelling and scientific programming are required.
• Science communication, education and outreach positions within museums, centres for astronomy and public engagement.

Why study at University of Sharjah

The University of Sharjah offers a regional centre for space science education with faculty who are active in research and collaboration across the Gulf and international partners. The programme emphasises hands-on training, access to modern laboratory facilities and supervised research projects that connect students to real observational and satellite data.

• Interdisciplinary supervision linking physics, engineering and applied sciences to support diverse research topics.
• Opportunities to engage with regional space initiatives and industry partners for project work and internships.
• Small cohort sizes and personalised academic supervision to support development of specialised research skills.
• Preparation for both professional careers in the space sector and progression to doctoral study.