MSc Space Data Science
- Entry year:
- 2026/27
- Start date:
- January
- Study mode:
- Part-time
- Course duration:
- 2 years
- Campus:
- City
Why study this course with LJMU?
About this course
This MSc in Space Data Science will equip you with the AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics skills to turn rapidly growing volumes of space data into solutions for Earth and beyond — preparing you for emerging careers across the expanding space, Earth observation and data science industries.
Study a ground-breaking curriculum shaped by space and industry needs.
Master industry-standard tools for data science, GIS and spatial analysis.
Explore AI and machine learning, from core theory to real-world applications.
Apply data science to space and environmental challenges, including climate change and sustainability.
Learn from world-leading researchers with extensive academic and industry experience.
Gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art GIS and environmental analysis facilities.
Complete an extended dissertation project tackling a real-world space data science problem.
Choose from a wide range of dissertation topics aligned with your interests and career goals.
Develop skills for careers in space, data science and environmental sectors, or prepare for PhD study.
Space is becoming a data-rich environment, with satellites, Earth observation systems and space missions generating vast amounts of information about our planet and beyond. Space Data Science brings together the power of data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning and geographic information systems (GIS) to transform this data into valuable knowledge and new opportunities.
From monitoring climate change and environmental change to supporting sustainable development and emerging space technologies, space data is helping us understand and respond to some of the world's most pressing challenges. By combining advanced data analysis and machine learning with spatial and geographical insight, Space Data Scientists can uncover patterns, make predictions and develop innovative solutions to complex real-world problems.
As the space sector continues to grow and AI rapidly transforms the way we work with data, the demand for people who can bridge these disciplines is increasing. Space Data Science sits at the forefront of this development, bringing together space, AI and data science to create new insights, technologies and applications that can benefit society both on Earth and beyond.
Course structure
The programme combines six core modules with a range of optional modules, alongside an extended research project. Core topics include space science, GIS, statistical and computational techniques, and machine learning. Together, the programme will develop the knowledge and practical skills you need to pursue a career in the space industry or progress to further research through a PhD or equivalent.
You will learn through a combination of lectures, tutorials and hands-on computer laboratory sessions, giving you opportunities to apply your knowledge to real-world problems and develop practical experience with relevant tools and techniques. Optional modules allow you to explore areas of particular interest and tailor your studies to your academic and career goals.
A major component of the MSc is the extended research project. Working with an experienced researcher and supervisor, you will investigate a high-level, original research topic, allowing you to develop your analytical and research skills while exploring an area of Space Data Science that interests you.
Prerequisite:
Students applying to the MSc in Space Data Science program should possess a degree in a discipline with a strong computational or quantitative component (such as computer science, mathematics, or a subject in the natural sciences).
Course modules
Discover the building blocks of your programme
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Core modules
Research Methods in Data Science
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to equip you with the research skills necessary to undertake your dissertation project. It covers the preparation of a research proposal or a business case (depending on the academic/industrial context), consideration of ethical and legal issues, literature review, oral and written presentation skills and project management.
Climate Change and GIS
20 credits
20 credits
Students will develop high level understanding of how to capture, store, analyse, and visualise spatial data. Students will acquire subject and employment skills linked to professional and career development. This practical based module uses industry standard software to develop highly sought-after skills in GIS.
Foundations of Machine Learning
20 credits
20 credits
This module provides fundamental skills required in machine learning to solve real-world problems. These skills will help to equip the student with the fundamental principles of machine learning to support advanced topics taught in the course. Furthermore, these skills will be practical core requirements for a successful career as a machine learning engineer in industry.
Optional modules
Introduction to Data Analytics
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to provide an introduction to the key concepts of data compilation, management, querying, cleaning and visualisation.
Statistical Methods in R
20 credits
20 credits
This module provides an introduction to key concepts in statistics and statistical computing using the R programming language, with an emphasis on the informed interpretation of the results of statistical testing.
Big Data Computing
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to develop skills in modern computing techniques for high performance analysis of large data sets. It also provides an understanding of how to translate an analysis problem to best exploit such techniques.
Your Learning Experience
An insight into teaching on your course
The methods used to enable outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated are as follows:
Acquisition of knowledge through lectures, seminars, practicals, directed reading, focused literature review exercises, coursework assignments, student discussion groups, and tutorials.
Testing of the knowledge base is through a combination of continuous assessment methods, short and extended computer based assignments, formal written examinations, project report or dissertation, and oral presentations.
Analytic, mathematical and problem-solving skills are developed through self-learning assessments, focussed literature review exercises, written assignments and tutorials.
The Research Project will involve both experimental and literature research, further developing skills of research methodology, critical analysis and discussion.
Analysis and problem-solving skills are assessed through computer based assignments and written examinations.
Experimental and analysis research skills are assessed in the presentation of the Project together with an oral defence.
Practical experimental skills, preparing a high-level technical report and giving a technical presentation are developed through the Research Project and Research Methods modules.
Computational and programming skills are embedded in every module and will be developed throughout the programme.
Project proposal and report, computer based coursework assignments and examinations, oral presentation.
Transferable skills are embedded on the programme. Skills are learned through completion of written assignments, participating in tutorials and collecting and transferring data via computer networks and from on-line databases, and through the Space Data Science Project.
As part of the research methods and project modules, the students will be encouraged and assisted to develop a professional on-line presence.
Skills are developed through self-assessment exercises, coursework and the oral and written "pitches" of research proposals and projection management plan. Tutorials and feedback assist and improve the level of skill achieved.
How learning is monitored on your programme
To cater for the wide-ranging content of our courses and the varied learning preferences of our students, we offer a range of assessment methods on each programme.
You will be assessed via a combination of exams, coursework and an extended report based on your dissertation project. Typically, your mark will come from a combination of coursework and an exam, although some modules may be assessed entirely by coursework done in the computer lab.
The Climate Change and GIS module will have two assessments. For the first assessment you will develop a climate change case study using GIS data and present the findings in a written report. For the second assessment you will explore a problem using GIS data and discuss your findings in an oral presentation.
Where you will study
Study in a world-leading research environment
Located in the heart of the Knowledge Quarter, the Astrophysics Research Institute brings together world-leading research in astrophysics with excellence in teaching and learning. The Department of Computer Science and Mathematics and the School of Biological and Environmental Sciences are based at City Campus, providing an inspiring environment where cutting-edge research and real-world applications shape the student experience.
As an MSc student, you will learn in modern, purpose-built facilities designed to support practical, data-driven learning. Teaching takes place at City Campus on Byrom Street, with access to a dedicated GIS suite and environmental analysis laboratory, as well as specialist computing infrastructure for advanced analysis and large-scale data processing.
You will have access to dedicated servers running virtual machines, cloud computing platforms, and LJMU's high-performance computing facility, “Prospero”. These resources provide opportunities to work with sophisticated tools and computational techniques used in contemporary research and professional practice.
With the City Campus Library just a short walk away, you will also have convenient access to extensive academic resources, study spaces and support throughout your studies.
Together, these facilities provide a dynamic learning environment where you can develop practical skills, work with real-world datasets and gain experience using the technologies and approaches shaping your field.
Course tutors
Andreea Font is Professor of Astronomy at Liverpool John Moores University, specialising in studying the formation and evolution of galaxies, such as the Milky Way. For her research, she uses a combination of computer simulations run on high-performance facilities and large observational datasets from telescopes.
“Space is no longer just about rockets and satellites - it is a data-driven industry creating opportunities across science, technology and a growing range of professional fields. The MSc in Space Data Science is designed to equip students with the skills and confidence to engage with this exciting sector, whether they are looking to build on an existing career or take a new direction. With strong links to the wider space ecosystem, including the growing opportunities in the North West, students can develop expertise that opens up new possibilities both within the space industry and beyond.”
Postgraduate research opportunities
At LJMU, you can take the next step in your academic journey with a PhD or MPhil, available on a full-time or part-time basis. International students also have the option to study remotely.
- PhD duration: Up to 4 years full-time, or up to 7 years part-time
- Funding options: Choose between funded projects (with supervisors already in place) or self-funded study
Our Doctoral Academy is here to support you every step of the way—from your first enquiry through to successful completion—working closely with Schools, Faculties, and Professional Services.
For more details on postgraduate research and full details on how to apply, visit the Doctoral Academy website.
Career paths
Further your career prospects
LJMU has an excellent employability record with 97% of our postgraduates in work or further study fifteen months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2025). Our applied learning techniques and strong industry connections ensure our students are fully prepared for the workplace on graduation and understand how to apply their knowledge in a real world context.
In 2023, the UK Space Agency carried out a comprehensive survey of 218 organizations working in the Space Sector, concluding that skills-related challenges are extremely common, with skills gaps in "AI & machine learning" and "data analysis & modelling" being particularly challenging. The two most cited reasons for recruitment difficulties were that applicants lacked the required specialist skills, knowledge, or qualifications (76%), or that there simply were not enough applicants in the first place (67%). Half of the organisations expect that their space skills needs will be different in three years’ time, with the majority of these indicating that they will need software & data skills, highlighting AI & machine learning in particular.
This programme is designed to prepare you for a career in the rapidly growing space industry, equipping you with the specialist data science and technical skills needed to work with the increasingly large and complex datasets generated by space missions, satellites and Earth observation systems. As demand for skilled professionals who can extract value from space data continues to grow, the programme provides a strong foundation for careers across the space sector and its expanding downstream applications.
You will develop practical experience in accessing, processing, analysing and interpreting large and complex datasets, while learning how to apply data science techniques to real-world space-related challenges. These skills can support a wide range of careers, including roles such as Space Data Scientist, Earth Observation Data Scientist, Geospatial Data Scientist, Remote Sensing Scientist, Space Data Analyst and Satellite Data Engineer. You will also develop highly transferable skills in scientific and technical communication, critical analysis, problem solving and communicating data-driven insights—skills valued by employers across the space industry.
LJMU has strong links with graduate employers and organisations across the space sector, particularly in the North West, providing opportunities to engage with industry-relevant challenges and develop an understanding of how space data is used to support missions, services and commercial applications. Your substantial research project will allow you to apply your skills to an authentic space data science problem, building experience that can demonstrate your technical expertise and ability to work independently to prospective employers.
The programme also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue further research, including PhD-level study. Your research project will give you the opportunity to investigate an original problem in space data science and develop research skills that can support progression into doctoral study and careers involving advanced research and innovation.
Tuition fees and funding
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as library membership and student IT support with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources including programme-appropriate software and on campus wifi.
Financial Support
There are many ways to fund postgraduate study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you’ll find all of the information you need on our specialist postgraduate funding pages. The University offers a range of financial support for students. You'll find all the information you need on our specialist financial support pages including details of the Student Support Fund and other activities to support with the cost of living.
Additional Costs
In addition to fees, students should also keep in mind the cost of:
- Accommodation
- Travel costs and field trips unless paid for by LJMU
- Stationery, IT equipment, professional body membership and graduation gown hire
Entry requirements
You will need:
Qualification requirements
Undergraduate degree
Undergraduate honours degree (2:2 or better) in a numerate, scientific or computer based subject. Plus A level or equivalent in Mathematics at Grade C or above. Individual cases will be considered on their merit. LJMU welcomes applications from international students. In addition to normal entry requirements, you will be expected to demonstrate a very good level of English language competence, for example an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent with a minimum of 6.0 in each component or the award of a degree within the last two years from a recognised UK higher education provider.
How to apply
Securing your place at LJMU
To apply for this programme, you are required to complete an LJMU online application form. You will need to provide details of previous qualifications and a personal statement outlining why you wish to study this programme.
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