The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering is excited to introduce a new Graduate Certificate in Space Systems, beginning in Fall 2025, designed to equip working professionals with the essential knowledge needed for the growing space industry. This partnership with the College of Sciences and Mathematics offers a cutting-edge program that is perfect for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of space missions, satellite design and space system operations.
Auburn University’s commitment to space research and innovation extends beyond the classroom. With an expanding presence in Huntsville’s Cummings Research Park, Auburn is fostering partnerships with the Department of Defense, NASA and other industry leaders to advance space technologies. The university is also home to specialized initiatives, such as the Auburn University Space Manufacturing Initiative and a state-of-the-art radiation-hardening facility.
Certificate Overview
The Space Systems Graduate Certificate is a 9-credit-hour, three-course program that integrates both the technical and operational dimensions of the space industry. Designed to be accessible to professionals from diverse backgrounds — including engineering, business and beyond — it provides a strong foundation in core space systems concepts. Whether you're new to the field or looking to build on existing experience, the curriculum delivers essential knowledge to help you confidently navigate and contribute to this dynamic sector.
Courses
An introduction to the space environment, operating in space, satellite design and applying satellite technology to provide services and capabilities to a variety of user groups.
Intro to Space Systems: Math and Physics and Technology concepts
Gravity; free fall; microgravity; Lagrange points
Launch velocity; launch windows; launch azimuths; tangential velocity
Eccentricity; conic sections; hyperbolic and parabolic orbits
Classic orbital elements; Walker Constellations
Delta V; maneuver velocity; inclination change velocity; Hohman Transfer; co-planar rendezvous
Kepler’s Laws of Motion
Angular momentum; gravity gradient
Sidereal day; precision timing
Imaging resolution; synthetic aperture radar; position determination; infrared signatures; RF detection
Link budget; signal to noise ratio; atmospheric attenuation; frequency bands; antennae beam width; ground footprint (diameter and area)
Telemetry; radars; data processing; networking
Cybersecurity; cyber operations; space operations
An overview of space systems operations, operational orbits, orbital maneuvers, station keeping, different stakeholders’ mission operations, avoiding on-orbit crisis and satellite/constellation end of life.
Program Details and Admission Requirements
Auburn University’s Space Systems Graduate Certificate is designed for professionals in aerospace, defense, telecommunications and manufacturing who are seeking to deepen their understanding of space systems and operations. Whether you're looking to transition into the space sector or advance within it, this program offers a powerful opportunity to expand your expertise and elevate your career.
Open to both working professionals and traditional graduate students, the certificate welcomes individuals from both technical and non-technical backgrounds. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree and have some STEM experience, either through academic coursework or professional practice. While a technical degree is preferred, it is not required and there is no GRE requirement for admission.
To ensure success in this rigorous program, students are encouraged to have a solid foundation in college-level algebra, trigonometry, and introductory physics.
Key Benefits
- No Engineering Degree Required: You don’t need a background in engineering to benefit from this program. Professionals from fields such as business or management, who work in or aspire to enter the space sector, will find this program valuable.
- Interdisciplinary Learning: The program leverages expertise from both the College of Engineering and the College of Sciences and Mathematics, offering a well-rounded educational experience.
- Industry-Relevant Knowledge: Learn the fundamentals of space systems, spacecraft design, satellite architecture and the terminology associated with space missions, preparing you for the rapidly expanding global space sector.
- Flexibility for Professionals: Designed for working professionals, this certificate provides a convenient pathway to gain expertise while continuing your career.
Credits earned as part of the graduate certificate can also be applied to Master’s programs, including Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Management.
Prospective students will be required to submit transcripts, a statement of objectives or professional goals, a resume and at least one letter of recommendation (2 encouraged).
The application deadline for the course will be August 15.
For more information, such as program costs and application instructions, please visit
https://eng.auburn.edu/online/program/space-sys-grad-cert