ESPACE - Earth Oriented Space Science and Technology
Technical University of Munich offers this 24-month English-taught master's in Munich, ranked #27 by Times Higher Education.
What it takes to get in
- Deadline
- 31 May 2027
- Apply via
- uni-assist
What it costs
No tuition fees here — just plan for a normal Munich student life.
Living in Munich →
What you'll study
120 ECTS over 24 months — core foundations, then a track of your choice, then a thesis.
The Master’s degree program in Earth Oriented Space Science and Technology (ESPACE) is an interdisciplinary program positioned at the interface between space technology and the engineering and natural scientific use of satellite data. It is conducted as a two year master's degree program with the option of a Double Degree in cooperation with the Wuhan University, China. ESPACE combines the technical aspects of the satellite and observation systems with scientific and commercial applications. This requires interdisciplinary knowledge beyond the borders of different engineering disciplines such as geodesy, mechanical and electrical engineering, as well as physics, informatics and geosciences. The goal of the ESPACE Master’s degree program is to train students to become experts in the use and development of satellites in the three main areas of earth system science, remote sensing and navigation. Students acquire fundamental knowledge and competencies in these three fields as a general basis, as well as the interfaces among them in order to be able to link technological know-how with practical application. They simultaneously learn the necessary basics of signal processing, sensor technology, orbital mechanics and space technology, so that they are in a position to help plan and develop future missions for the above-mentioned areas. By including numerous scientific institutes and the space industry in the teaching concept, ESPACE makes full use of the potential of excellent scientists, offering also the opportunity of dedicated project work and Master’s theses in close co-operation with, and in many cases even at the location of these institutions. Thus the students become involved in current projects, state-of-the-art technology and science, and daily practice. For a comprehensive description of the program, please refer to the degree program documentation: Degree program documentation for the Master’s program in Earth Oriented Space Science and Technology (PDF) Which further expertise and skills will I acquire? As a graduate of the Master’s program Earth Oriented Space Science and Technology (ESPACE) you have acquired solid thematic and methodological competencies in the topics of earth-oriented space science and technology. You possess basic competences in the three core areas satellite and remote sensing data analysis , space engineering and satellite application engineering. Depending on your chosen specialization in either earth systems science, remote sensing or navigation you have developed further skills and abilities. Due to the international approach of the Master’s program, you have augmented your social and intercultural abilities. This allows you to work in intercultural and interdisciplinary groups within the global framework of satellite technology and research. You are capable of developing joint solutions beyond the boundaries of specialist fields and present them in a way suited for your target audience. Which professional opportunities can I take up with this qualification? The interdisciplinary Master of Science Program ESPACE is positioned at the interface between space technology and the engineering and natural scientific use of satellite data. There is the possibility to graduate with a Double Degree from the Wuhan University in China. As a graduate with a M.Sc. in ESPACE you are qualified to start a career in international aerospace agencies as well as national or international research institutes or universities. Further possibilities are offered by the aerospace technology industry and generally by companies in the area of navigation and logistics or security-related applications. Program structure The first two semesters are centered on basic skills in earth system science, remote sensing and navigation, mathematical and physics-based as well satellite technology, orbital mechanics and applied satellite usage. This way, students coming from a wide range of different bachelor’s programs are brought up to the same level of knowledge. In the third semester, students can choose one of the three focus areas earth systems science, remote sensing or navigation which is complemented by elective modules. The fourth semester is dedicated entirely to the Master’s thesis, which is then defended in a public Master’s colloquium. Overview degree program structure (PDF 1 MB) Program structure: Overview of modules Language of instruction Required language skills for admission: You need sufficient English language skills if you wish to apply for this program. Evidence of your language proficiency has to be submitted before the end of the application deadline. Learn more about recognized certificates and other ways to prove your English language skills . This evidence of your language proficiency confirms that you comply with the minimum language requirements for admission to the program. Depending on the program and your individual background, it may be necessary for you to keep working on your language skills during your studies. Be sure to take a look at the services of our Language Center. Language of instruction: The language of instruction for this program is English. Information on study organization Information on exams Contact Examination Board Information on studying abroad Information on internships Fees for the program The tuition fees for international students from third countries for this degree program are 6,000 euros per semester . Many international students can have their fees waived or receive scholarships to finance them. You can find all information on waivers and scholarships here. Please note: The semester fee as a contribution to the student union must be paid additionally. It varies depending on where you are studying. You can find all information on the semester fee here. Academic Regulations:
Rankings
- Times Higher Education 2026#27
- Times Higher Education 2025#26
- QS World 2025#28
- QS — Engineering 2025#16
- QS — Computer Science 2025#26
- QS — Medicine 2025#75
- QS — Business 2025#91
Visa & life in Germany
The practical stuff — what's allowed, what's funded, what to expect after you graduate.
- Student visa
- Non-EU students need a national (D) visa plus a residence permit after arrival; proof of finances (blocked account, ~€11,900/yr) is the main requirement. EU students just register locally (Anmeldung).
- Post-study work
- 18-month job-seeker residence permit after graduation — you can work without restriction while searching for a position matching your qualification.
- Tuition
- Public universities charge no tuition for most programmes — just a semester contribution of €150–€400. Exceptions: Baden-Württemberg (€1,500/semester for non-EU) and some TUM professional master's.
- Scholarships
- DAAD scholarships for international students, Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month, merit-based), plus Erasmus+ for EU mobility.
About Technical University of Munich
Technical University of Munich enrolls 47,047 students and offers 83 programs across engineering, business and law, and computer science and IT. The institution ranks #26 in the Times Higher Education overall rankings for 2025, with subject strengths in engineering (#16 in QS Subject rankings) and computer science (#26 in QS Subject rankings).
Common questions
Is ESPACE - Earth Oriented Space Science and Technology at Technical University of Munich taught in English?
Yes — the programme is taught entirely in English.
What is the acceptance rate at Technical University of Munich?
Not published. Most European public universities don't release acceptance rates — admission is requirements-based, so if you meet the stated requirements your application gets a full review rather than competing against a fixed quota.
Do I need GRE or GMAT scores?
No — GRE and GMAT scores are not required for this programme.
Can I work in Germany after graduating?
Yes. Germany grants graduates of German universities an 18-month residence permit to look for work matching their qualification, and you can work without restriction during the search period.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 31 May 2027. Deadlines can differ by nationality — confirm on the programme page.
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