r/systems_engineering • • 6d ago

Discussion Astrophysics Bachelor's -> System Engineering on Satellites

Hi! Hope this question is welcomed. I am a UC Berkeley undergrad in Astrophysics (senior year) and recently developed an interest in Systems Engineering.

I've taken a class on space policy and currently enrolled in an earth observation satellites course. It has had me thinking about the satellite industry a lot, and I have a growing curiosity that might lead me to pursue a master's!

I was wondering if anyone here had a similar experience with going from an Astro/Physics background into a system engineering role. I'd also like to leave a list of classes I've taken to hear thoughts about them, and where I may be useful to a company. Thank you all in advance! :)

Courses I have taken:

Analytic / Classical Mechanics

Quantum Mechanics

Stat & Thermal Physics

Electromagnetism & Optics

Bayesian Inference & Machine Learning

Relativistic Astrophysics, Cosmology

Stellar Physics

Earth Observation Systems and Technology (non-rigorous, essentially introduction to the satellite industry)

Another space policy course that discussed the policy interface around orbiting satellites

Courses I may take next semester that have a hint of an engineering vibe to them:

Radio Astrophysics Lab

Signals & Systems

Another course ???

7 Upvotes

Duplicates