Students can now get certificate in space systems engineering

A new certificate program in space systems engineering has been approved by the College of Engineering's undergraduate studies committee and is available for students.

The certificate is intended primarily for students in the College of Engineering and will recognize their completion of a core set of courses in space systems engineering-related topics in addition to significant participation in a space systems project.

The program, under the direction of and jointly administered by the Department of Electrical Engineering's Communications and Space Sciences Laboratory and the Department of Aerospace Engineering, is designed to better prepare students for a career in the space industry. It also will appeal to students with a more general interest in systems engineering wishing to bolster their credentials.

Requirements for obtaining the certificate include completion of an application, 12 relevant academic credits and a hands-on space systems project and report. As a result of its formal approval, the program is immediately available.

Sven Bilen, an associate professor of engineering design, electrical engineering and aerospace engineering, will serve as director of the program. More information on the program can be found at http://www.engr.psu.edu/Departments/spacesys.asp online.