Opportunities for students
If you want to get more involved in space or are interested in working in the space sector, you can carry out further studies or join a space group.
The UK Space Education Office (ESERO-UK) lists the universities in the UK offering degrees in space-related subjects.
Post-graduate space science courses are offered at universities across the country .
The International Space University (ISU) provides graduate-level training to the future leaders of the global space community at its Central Campus in Strasbourg, France, and at locations around the world. ISU’s core curriculum covers all disciplines related to space programmes and enterprises: space science, space engineering, systems engineering, space policy and law, business and management, and space and society. The UK Space Agency offers funding assistance via the UK Space Agency's ISU Scholarship scheme.
Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS) is the world’s largest space enthusiast organisation for both school and university students. Anyone who is interested can become a member of UKSEDS, young or old, student or non-student.
The IAF, or International Astronautical Federation, is an international non-governmental and non-profit organisation that encourages the advancement of knowledge about space and its application for the benefit of humanity. It holds many different events including the annual International Astronautical Congress.
The Alpbach Summer School covers aspects of space science and space technology for European graduates, post-graduate students, young scientists and engineers.
The Scottish Space School at Strathclyde aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers by highlighting the career and educational opportunities available to young people with an interest in science, engineering and technology. Places at the annual week-long space school are open only to S 5 pupils in Scottish schools.
Space School UK runs six- and eight-day residential courses at the University of Leicester during the summer holidays, aimed primarily at students who are preparing for GCSEs and A-levels and who have a strong interest in astronomy, space science and technology. Further details and an application form for one of the 2011 Space Schools can be found on their website.
The disciplines covered range from physics and astronomy to engineering and planetary science. While the courses include both lectures and practical activities, there is ample opportunity for socialising too. At Space School UK you are likely to make life-long friends and become part of the growing Space School alumni.
Opportunities are provided for students to meet space scientists and academics, as well as potential employers. Activities include underwater spaceflight simulation and sky-diving in a wind chamber, and students will spend a day at the National Space Centre.
Space school is currently sponsored by Astrium Ltd, the Ogden Trust and the UK Space Agency. Attendance is maily from schools across the UK, although students from Denmark, Norway, Italy and Oman have also taken part in recent years.
For more ideas about getting involved, see our ‘Learn More, Get Involved’ page in the Careers section.
