Start: Fall & Winter Entry Available
Accredited: CEAB
Entry: Requirements
#1 in Canada for Aerospace Engineering
(ShanghaiRanking of Academic Subjects, 2024)
#26 in the World for Aerospace Engineering
(ShanghaiRanking of Academic Subjects, 2024)
Canada’s only dedicated Space Engineering program
Program Overview
Design the future of space exploration.
From building satellites that monitor climate change to developing robotics for planetary exploration, you’ll gain the technical skills and hands-on experience to design and launch space systems—tackling some of the biggest challenges in space and on Earth.
Through this program, you’ll learn how to develop, test and operate spacecraft, satellites and space instruments—from concept to launch. You’ll also explore the unique challenges of working in space, from microgravity environments to extreme radiation and deep-space communication.
Marissa – Space Engineering Student
ESSENCE – Rocket Launch Project
Matthew – Space Engineering Student
Tetiana – Space Engineering Student
Patrick – Space Engineering Student
Why choose this program?
Whether you’re passionate about spacecraft design, mission planning, robotics or space science, this program will prepare you for a career at the cutting edge of the fast-growing space sector.
✔ Real-world experience & industry connections
- Get paid, hands-on experience with up to 20 months of co-op at leading space organizations like MDA, Canadensys, and the Canadian Space Agency.
- Collaborate with faculty working on real space missions alongside NASA, CSA, and top aerospace organizations, benefiting from a low student-to-faculty ratio that fosters mentorship and personalized learning.
- Gain direct exposure to industry leaders, ensuring you graduate with the skills and experience employers need
Take advantage of paid summer research opportunities, with more undergraduate research appointments than any other department at Lassonde.
Michelle – Space Engineering Student
Nanosatellite Lab – Undergraduate Research
Ian – Undergraduate Research
Ian – Research Check In
Ian – Final Thoughts on Research Experience
✔ Cutting-edge learning environment
- Work with industry-standard space technology in hardware labs, robotics testing facilities and mission simulation environments.
- Design and test spacecraft systems used in satellites, planetary rovers and deep-space exploration.
- Use advanced software and tools to simulate orbital mechanics, mission planning, and space communications.
✔ Expand Your Expertise with the Mechatronics Certificate
- Designed for Space Engineering students, this certificate enhances expertise in electrical, mechanical, control and computer engineering, aligning closely with the curriculum.
- Expands career opportunities in robotics, aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, mining, biomedical industries and more.
- Example courses include: Intro to Mechatronics (ESSE 3380), Mechatronics Systems and Design (ESSE 4380), Introduction to Robotics (EECS 4421), Microsystems Technology (ESSE 3320), Feedback Control Systems (ENG 4650).
✔ A degree built for the future
- With Canada investing heavily in lunar exploration, satellite technology and space innovation, this program puts you at the centre of a rapidly expanding industry.
- Tackle global challenges using space technology, from climate monitoring to disaster response and advanced communications.
Employment: Launch Your Career in the Space Industry
With co-op opportunities and strong industry connections, you’ll gain the experience and expertise to thrive in a competitive job market.
Where Our Graduates Work
Aerospace & Space Industry
Graduates of our program have secured careers with top space agencies, aerospace companies, and cutting-edge startups, including:
Grad Success Stories
Beyond Aerospace: Expanding Career Horizons
Space Engineering skills open diverse career opportunities in industries beyond aerospace, including robotics, automotive, finance, and software development. Our graduates have secured rewarding roles at:
Your future career
A degree in Space Engineering opens doors to careers in:
* Spacecraft Design Engineer – Works on the structure, thermal control and electronics of spacecraft.
* Mission Systems Engineer – Integrates and oversees different spacecraft components to ensure mission success.
* Autonomous Systems Engineer – Develops AI-driven navigation and decision-making systems for space.
* GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) Engineer – Works on positioning and navigation technology for space missions.
* Planetary Science & Instrumentation Engineer – Develops scientific instruments for space probes and planetary exploration.
* Space Policy & Regulatory Specialist – Advises on international space law and commercial regulations.
* NewSpace Entrepreneur – Develops technologies for commercial space startups, from satellite services to space tourism.
Graduates find opportunities with space agencies (NASA, CSA, ESA), aerospace companies (MDA, SpaceX, Blue Origin) and research institutions shaping the future of space exploration.
First-year core courses
All engineering students at Lassonde complete a common first-year curriculum. Courses include:
- Applied Calculus & Linear Algebra – Essential math skills for engineering problem-solving.
- Engineering Mechanics – Understanding forces, motion, and structures.
- Electricity, Magnetism & Optics – The physics behind modern space technology.
- Computational Thinking Through Mechatronics – Learn the basics of programming and automation.
- Materials Science for Engineers – Study materials used in spacecraft and space environments.
- Renaissance Engineering – A multidisciplinary approach to solving engineering challenges.
Sample First-Year Schedules
ENGINEERING – YEAR ONE COMMON CORE – FALL TERM
| MONDAY | TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | FRIDAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Calculus | Renaissance Engineering I | Engineering Mechanics | ||
| Applied Calculus | Applied Linear Algebra | Renaissance Engineering I | Applied Calculus | |
| Applied Linear Algebra | Renaissance Engineering I | Engineering Mechanics | Applied Linear Algebra | |
| Engineering Mechanics | Engineering Mechanics | |||
| Computational Thinking Through Mechatronics | Computational Thinking Through Mechatronics | Computational Thinking Through Mechatronics | ||
| Computational Thinking Through Mechatronics | Engineering Mechanics |
ENGINEERING – YEAR ONE COMMON CORE – WINTER TERM
| MONDAY | TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | FRIDAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials Science for Engineers | Renaissance Engineering II | Electricity, Magnetism & Optics | ||
| Applied Calculus II | Renaissance Engineering II | Applied Calculus II | Renaissance Engineering II | Applied Calculus II |
| Object Oriented Programming | Object Oriented Programming | Materials Science for Engineers | Object Oriented Programming | |
| Electricity, Magnetism and Optics | Materials Science for Engineers | Electricity, Magnetism & Optics | Electricity, Magnetism & Optics | |
| Discrete Mathematics OR The Earth Environment | Discrete Mathematics OR The Earth Environment | Discrete Mathematics OR The Earth Environment | ||
| The Earth Environment | Object Oriented Programming | Materials Science for Engineers | Electricity, Magnetism & Optics |
Flexible learning option: Lassonde’s innovative new block model delivery allows first-year students to focus on one course at a time, blending in-person and online learning for flexibility, deep engagement, and reduced stress.
Specialized Space Engineering courses
As you progress, your studies will focus on designing, building, and operating space systems, with courses that provide hands-on experience in key areas:
Hands-on learning & lab experiences
Control & Mechatronics Laboratory
Explore how spacecraft and aerospace systems maintain stability and precision. Using the Quanser AERO, a dual-motor experiment platform, students gain hands-on experience with real-time control systems, essential for spacecraft attitude control, drone navigation, and robotic autonomy.
Meet Your Professors
Professor Mike Daly
Professor Regina Lee
Meet master’s student Constantine:
This is Lassonde: Podcast
Centre for Research in Earth & Space Science (CRESS)
Through Lassonde’s CRESS, researchers contribute to major space missions, develop new technologies, and explore planetary and climate science. Their work helps shape the learning environment, offering students opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research.
Thinking about grad school? Many students continue into Master’s and PhD programs, driving research in aerospace, robotics, mechatronics, and beyond.
Read the latest Space Engineering stories
Stories
View All View all storiesEnhance your Space Engineering experience
Available for all of our Engineering programs
Co-op
Work a minimum of 12 months up to a maximum of 20 months while on co-op. You can earn up to 1 year of qualified experience towards your PEng.
Dual Degree
Add a BA in International Development Studies with this Dual Degree. Available for all of our Engineering programs.
BEST Certificate
Through entrepreneurial, academic and experiential achievements during your time at Lassonde, you can earn the BEST Certificate.
Application and Admissions Info
Important Information for applicants
Professional accreditation
Our Space Engineering program is accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB), ensuring it meets the academic requirements for professional engineering licensure in Canada. Graduates of this program will:
- Fully satisfy the academic requirements for licensure as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in Canada.
- Be eligible to apply for registration with Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) and other provincial engineering regulatory bodies.
- Gain a recognized qualification that aligns with international engineering standards.
This accreditation ensures you’re on the right path to becoming a licensed engineer, opening doors to career opportunities in Canada and beyond.
