Astronautics and Space Technology Division

Master of Science About the Department Master's Degree Programs  Application Criteria How to Apply

Application Deadlines      Contact Information      Department Brochure

About the Department

The Astronautics and Space Technology Division (ASTD) is an academic unit of the Viterbi School of Engineering at USC. ASTD operates as an independent department and offers degree programs (Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science Minor, Master of Science, Engineer, Ph.D., Graduate Certificate) in astronautical engineering (ASTE).

In order to position the USC Viterbi School of Engineering to take full advantage of rapidly growing opportunities in space, I am today announcing the creation of a new Astronautics and Space Technology Division. ... Space technology and astronautics has recently re-emerged as an important sector of economic and engineering activity not only in the Southern California economy but also in the nation as a whole. Both national security applications and space exploration are driving this resurgence. However, recent congressional studies have warned of a looming shortage of engineers in this area. -- Former Dean Max Nikias of the Viterbi School, in announcing the creation of ASTD (Aug. '04)

ASTD concentrates on meeting the educational and research needs of the space and defense industries, government research and development centers, and academia.

Master's Degree Programs Offered

Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering

Application Criteria
The following is a summary of the application criteria.  For further information about the department and its programs, please visit the department website. 

Program	Transcripts	GRE*	Personal Statement	Letters of Recommendation	TOEFL
Astronautical Engineering	Yes	Yes	Optional	2	International Only

*Average GPA of admitted students is 3.5, average GRE quantitative score is 760.
Note:  If the applicant's degree is in a field of science or engineering other than aerospace engineering, he or she may be required to take 1-3 upper-division undergraduate classes to make up the deficiency.

How to Apply [back to top]
Please submit the following, if necessary, to the USC Office of Graduate Admission via the online application system by clicking here.

1. Statement of Purpose (optional)
   • The statement of purpose should describe succinctly your reasons for applying to the proposed program at the Viterbi School of Engineering, your preparation for this field of study, study interests, future career plans, and other aspects of your background and interests which may aid the admissions committee in evaluating your aptitude and motivation for graduate study.

   
   

2. Two Letters of Recommendation
   • Letters of recommendation should be from faculty or others (supervisors, professional colleagues, etc.) qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate study. If unable to submit through the online application, letters should be submitted on official letterhead.

3. Official Transcript(s) from all post-secondary schools you have attended, and official translations if they are not in English.
4. Official General GRE scores (no older than 5 years) sent through ETS to the University of Southern California, ETS code 4852.
5. Official TOEFL scores (for international students, no older than 2 years) sent through ETS to the University of Southern California, ETS code 4852.

Application Deadline [back to top]
In order to evaluate any application for admission, application materials must be submitted by the deadlines listed:

Program	Spring	Fall	Summer
Astronautical Engineering	October 1	June 15	February 15

Contact Information [back to top]