Becoming a Space Scientist: Which Masters Degree is Best?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best master's degree options for aspiring space scientists, considering various fields such as physics, engineering, and interdisciplinary studies. Participants explore the implications of different educational paths on future career opportunities in space science.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires whether an MSc in Physics or Theoretical Physics would be more beneficial for a career in space science.
  • Another participant suggests that, given the current economic climate, pursuing engineering might be the most promising option.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes the importance of personal satisfaction in choosing a degree, recommending exploration of various areas within space science to determine individual interests.
  • There is a clarification regarding the distinction between working in space versus working on space-related topics.
  • One participant lists various educational paths associated with specific roles in space science, including degrees in geology, engineering, and computer science, while stressing the importance of mathematics in any chosen field.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the best educational path, with no consensus reached on which master's degree is superior for aspiring space scientists. Multiple competing views remain regarding the relevance of engineering versus physics degrees.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the subjective nature of career satisfaction and the variability in job roles within space science, indicating that personal interests and experiences may significantly influence degree choice.

stp24x7
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I would like to be a space scientist.Right now i have completed my Bachelors in physics with 97%.Whether an MSc in Physics or Theoretical physics would be more good?Reply soon
 
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In the current economic climate, engineering would be the most promising option, IMO.
 
I would not rely on others to decide this for me. What will matter to you is what satisfies you most about the work you are doing. True, it is impossible for you to know for sure right now which master's degree would open the doors to the "most sastisfactory" work environment. But you might ask yourself which areas of space science are the most interesting to you now? Best way is to try different laboratories doing different kinds of work. If you cannot work as an "apprentice" then at least meet and talk to a variety of folks already doing the kinds of jobs you would select from. They can tell you about their experiences, which may help you decide.
 
Do you mean working IN space or work ABOUT space?

Military test pilots do a lot of shuttle flying... But yeah. I always wanted to become an astronaut too. Sadly, I don't think that's ever going to happen. I just hope I'll make enough money to buy a trip from SpaceX some day.
 
I did not mean working in space!
 
Astronaut - Air Force test pilot and any technical degree. I would suggest geology for manned missions.

Spacecraft design, Propulsions - Aerospace/Mechanical/nuclear/electrical engineering

Computer systems engineer - computer engineering

Space station engineer - Mechanical, electrical, possibly biological engineering. I think UHouston has a Master's degree in Space Architecture

Planetary scientist/engineer - Geology, Geography, Meteorology, Physics, Chemistry

Astronomer - Astronomy/Physics

Take plenty of Math classes no matter what you do.
 
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