Satellite Data Science MSc, 1-2 years, full- or part-time
Satellite observations of the Earth provide us with detailed information about the natural environment and allow us to monitor how humans are altering the planet. This degree gives a broad-based education in data analytics techniques suitable for careers in data science in multiple sectors.
Course information
UK fee £9,900
International fee £21,850
Taught by Geography
Course description
Course description
Satellite observations of the Earth provide us with detailed information about the natural environment and allow us to monitor how humans are altering the planet. Uptake, use, and commercialisation of Earth observation data demands expertise in data analysis. There is a need for graduates who understand the principles of remote sensing whilst being able to write computer programmes, especially in Python, and use high-performance computing infrastructure. This course covers these areas, placing you in a strong position to seek employment in industry.
On this degree you will:
- Use data from space-based sensors to understand and tackle pressing global environmental challenges related to the biosphere and atmosphere.
- Develop analytical skills to use and process big datasets from satellites and other sensors.
- Learn to effectively use and modify open-access big data processing environments such as Python and R.
- Get started with cutting-edge image processing techniques, artificial intelligence and machine learning, on different platforms (e.g. cloud computing).
- Gain an appreciation for the extensive application of Earth observations to multiple sectors throughout the world.
Satellite Data Systems expertise at the University of Leicester
The University of Leicester is the UK hub of Earth observations research and expertise. We host the NERC National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO), established the Centre for Landscape and Climate Research (CLCR) in 2012, and created the world-class Leicester Institute for Space and Earth Observation (LISEO) in 2016 following 55 years of international space research.
Space Park Leicester is an ambitious project for creating a new £100 million centre for the analysis and commercialisation of space-enabled data and space mission development. Phase 1 is already approved and will consolidate Earth observation expertise and resources from across the university and promote innovative collaborations with collocated space sector industries.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
2:2 degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject. Non-standard qualification or professional experience in a relevant area may be considered.
English Language Requirements
IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, with at lease a score of 6 in all four categories. If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability. If you do not yet meet our requirements, our English Language Teaching Unit (ELTU) offers a range of courses to help you to improve your English to the necessary standard.
International Qualifications
Find your country in this list to check equivalent qualifications, scholarships and additional requirements.
Countries listFees and funding
Fees and funding
UK Students
This is the total course fee.
Starting in September 2023
- MSc: £9,900
- MSc with Industry: £9,900
An additional fee of £3,250 will be charged if a placement is secured.
If you are resident outside the UK and the Republic of Ireland, you will need to pay a deposit of £3,000 to secure your place. This will be subtracted from your total tuition fee.
Find out more about scholarships and funding.
Did you know you can apply for a Government Postgraduate Loan? Find out if you’re eligible.
International Students
This is the total course fee.
Starting in September 2023
- MSc: £21,850
- MSc with Industry: £21,850
An additional fee of £3,250 will be charged if a placement is secured.
You will need to pay a deposit of £3,000 to secure your place. This will be subtracted from your total tuition fee.
From 2022 onwards, EU nationals will pay the International fee. If you are an EU national with settled or pre-settled status under the EU settlement scheme, you may qualify for the UK fee (subject to criteria).
Find out more about scholarships and funding.
Careers and employability
Careers and employability
This course will provide you with a broad-based education in data analytics techniques suitable for a career in data science in multiple sectors, not necessarily limited to a career focused on satellite observations: research, academia, industry, SMEs, start-ups, government, policy, NGOs, not-for-profits. You will gain practical experience using tools and software (R, Python) that increase your employability and contribute to addressing the shortage of qualified data scientists in the UK and abroad.
Our Career Development Service is here to support you, with advice on interviews, CVs, work experience, volunteering and more. From Freshers’ Week to Graduation and beyond, they are here to help you reach your professional goals.
Course structure
Core modules
Core modules
- Remote sensing
- Earth observations of the atmosphere
- R for Data Science
- Fundamentals of GIS
- Satellite Data Analysis in Python
- Big Data and Predictive Analytics
Plus your Dissertation
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Option modules
Option modules
Choose two option modules from:
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Industrial placement (optional)
Industrial placement (optional)
Studying a 'with industry' masters degree is the perfect way for you to enhance your career prospects and deepen your understanding of your specific area of expertise. By experiencing real-world scenarios and applying your skills and knowledge to business challenges, you will gain a unique insight into how your studies can be utilised in industry. This will not only showcase your abilities to future employers, but will also enhance your studies when you return to University to complete your programme.
Please note that the 'With Industry' degree has a higher fee than the regular MSc.
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Key dates
September 2023 start
- Application deadline: 21 July 2023 (Please note this deadline is subject to change dependant on course capacity. If the capacity limit of this course is met before the deadline, applications will be closed early.)
- Deposit payment deadline: 7 August 2023
- CAS request deadline: 1 September 2023
- 50% payment deadline: 1 September 2023
Apply now
| Course | Qualification | Duration | Start Dates | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course Satellite Data Science | Qualification MSc | Duration 12 months, full-time | Start Dates September each year | Availability Apply Now |
| Course Satellite Data Science with Industry | Qualification MSc | Duration 18-24 months, full-time | Start Dates September each year | Availability Apply Now |
| Course Satellite Data Science | Qualification MSc | Duration 24 months, part-time | Start Dates September each year | Availability Apply Now |
