QUALIFICATION
Master’s Degree (Level 9, 120 or 180 points)
Duration
1 year
Location
City Campus, Auckland
Fees
NZD 55,484
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 6.5
Next Intake
March & July
Programme Overview
The Master of Aerospace Engineering (MAerospaceEng) at the University of Auckland is a 120-point or 180-point postgraduate degree supported by Te Pūnaha Ātea (Auckland Space Institute). Designed in collaboration with national and international aerospace partners, the programme combines advanced theoretical coursework, space systems design, flight mechanics, and practical research projects. It equips graduates with specialized technical, problem-solving, and system-level engineering capabilities tailored for the expanding aerospace and space sectors.
Note: Endorsed by industry leaders including Rocket Lab and the New Zealand Space Agency, the programme offers access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and industry-led project opportunities.
Programme Pathways
The qualification is offered in both taught and research pathways across 120-point or 180-point structures:
- 120-Point Pathway (1 Year Full-Time): For applicants with a 4-year BE(Hons) degree. Focuses on advanced aerospace coursework alongside a specialized research project or thesis.
- 180-Point Pathway (1.5 Years Full-Time): For applicants with a relevant 3-year Bachelor's degree. Comprises 60 points of foundational taught courses followed by 120 points of research or advanced project work.
- Taught vs. Research Options: Allows students to balance specialized taught modules (such as orbital mechanics and propulsion) with an individual research thesis or industry project.
What You'll Study
The curriculum covers core aerospace concepts, advanced engineering mechanics, and satellite systems:
- Aerospace Systems & Flight Dynamics:
- Aerospace Systems Design
- Space Dynamics and Missions
- Structures, Materials & Aerodynamics:
- Aerospace Structures and Mechanisms
- Computational Fluid Dynamics & Propulsion
- Systems Engineering & Electronics:
- Avionics & CubeSat Subsystems
- Advanced Embedded Systems & Sensors
- Research Capstone / Thesis:
- Aerospace Research Project / Master's Thesis
Why Choose This Programme?
- Backed by Auckland Space Institute: Direct learning access to Te Pūnaha Ātea, state-of-the-art cleanrooms, satellite ground stations, and testing facilities.
- Industry Endorsed & Connected: Supported by leading aerospace entities including Rocket Lab, the Royal Aeronautical Society, and the NZ Space Agency.
- Flexible Taught & Research Tracks: Tailored entry points for students coming from 3-year science/engineering backgrounds or 4-year honors degrees.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Space Operations & Missions | Space Mission Design Engineer, Payload Systems Engineer, Satellite Operations Specialist |
| Aeronautical & Defence Industry | Aerospace Engineer, Flight Dynamics Engineer, Avionics Systems Specialist |
| R&D & Launch Technology | Launch Services Engineer, Propulsion Development Engineer, Aerospace Research Scientist |
Entry Requirements
- Academic Minimums: Minimum GPA/GPE of 5.0 (B average) in the final relevant stage of undergraduate study.
- Pathway Validation: 120-point pathway requires a 4-year BE(Hons); 180-point pathway accepts relevant 3-year science/engineering degrees.
- English Proficiency Check: Academic IELTS 6.5 overall (no band < 6.0), PTE 58 (no communicative score < 50), or TOEFL iBT 90.
