Report an accessibility problem

Exploration Systems Design (Systems Engineering), MS

Exploration Systems Design (Systems Engineering), MS

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Exploration Systems Design (Systems Engineering), MS

Astrophysics, Data Science, Earth Science, Instrumentation, Machine Learning, Sensors, Systems Engineering, approved for STEM-OPT extension

Prepare for a professional or academic career through a program that combines the creative strengths of science and engineering. You can study artificial intelligence, human factors engineering, smart materials and structures, and robot modeling with faculty specializing in the natural sciences, instrumentation design and systems engineering.

Program description
Degree awarded: MS  Exploration Systems Design (Systems Engineering)

The MS program in exploration systems design with a concentration in systems engineering promotes the development and growth of engineering-literate scientists and science-literate engineers interested in the design, construction and implementation of next-generation space missions and large projects.

Its distinct curriculum combines science applications with engineering knowledge and skills through engineering and science courses focused on Earth science, space science and astrophysics. The concentration trains students to design the next generation of large projects and space missions for exploration of the Earth, space and the universe.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Degree requirements

30 credit hours including the required capstone course (SES 511)

Required Core (5 credit hours)
SES 501 SESE Colloquium (1)
SES 502 Exploring SESE Research (1)
SES 510 Graduate Exploration Project I (3)

Concentration (9 credit hours)
EGR 530 Principles of Systems Engineering (3)
EGR 608 Advanced Simulation (3)
EGR 611 Complex Engineering Systems (3)
IEE 573 Reliability Engineering (3)
MAE 547 Modeling and Control of Robots (3)
MAE 557 Mechanics of Composite Materials (3)
MAE 565 Rocket Propulsion (3)
MAE 587 Radiation Heat Transfer (3)

Electives or Research (13 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (3 credit hours)
SES 511 Graduate Exploration Project II (3)

Additional Curriculum Information
Students select three courses from the available concentration coursework.

For elective coursework, students select from the AST, GLG, SES or engineering courses in consultation with their faculty advisor. Six credit hours must be science coursework approved by the faculty advisor. Other courses can be used with academic unit approval.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, physical science or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. written statement
  4. three letters of recommendation
  5. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 12/01Priority
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 10/01Priority
Career opportunities

The U.S. Department of Labor predicts the economy will add an additional 63,000 jobs in engineering fields related to systems engineering and exploration systems design (involving electrical and electronics, aerospace and mechanical engineering). This is in addition to the 900,000 jobs already existing in the economy in these fields. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/home.htm

The state of Arizona has a considerable presence of aerospace and other technology companies with high demand for skilled labor. In particular, local aerospace companies have a need for students with direct experience and training in the space sector. The concentration in systems engineering is particularly positioned to provide this training.

Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

click back to top