College of Engineering
College of Engineering
Astronautics
College of Engineering
Astronautics
1. Introduction
The aerospace industry requires a wide range of technologies and skilled personnel, and it is emerging as a key national industry that will drive the future economy. In particular, the South Korean Ministry for Science and ICT’s Action Plan for Space Development highlights the need for personnel and technology in various advanced systems such as solid/liquid launch vehicles, satellites, and space probes/rovers. The market demand in both defense and civilian sectors is significantly expanding, to the extent that the current era is referred to as the New Space Age.
To meet this demand, the Space Engineering major cultivates professionals with specialized knowledge and design/analysis capabilities in the space field. The program has produced numerous leading figures in the domestic aerospace industry, including the CEO of South Korea’s first private rocket launch company Innospace, and the head of the Lunar Exploration Program at the Korea Aerospace Research Institute. Our faculty, leaders in lunar trajectory design and small satellite development, provide top-tier educational and research capabilities.
2. Curriculum Overview
The curriculum integrates space engineering with advanced technologies, fostering professional engineers through a combination of theoretical principles, practical applications, and hands-on training in space engineering. The program develops essential theoretical, analytical and design skills for national strategic projects such as launch vehicles, satellites, and space exploration systems.
To achieve these outcomes, the curriculum includes the theory, design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, and evaluation of fundamental mechanics and core space engineering technologies. Key subjects include orbital mechanics, propulsion (rocket/turbine), structural and material analysis of space systems, guidance/control/navigation of space systems, and an integrated design program (Capstone Design).
By aligning with national space strategies, the curriculum can offers the latest technology and on-site practical opportunities to produce field-ready professionals through collaboration with the KAU Satellite System Technology Research Institute and industry partners.
3. Career Path
Aerospace Companies: Hanwha Aerospace, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), Hanwha Systems, Korean Air, LIG Nex1, Innospace, etc.
Government and Private Research Institute: Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), Korea Agency for Defense Development (ADD)
Innovative Startups such as Innospace (South Korea’s first private rocket launch company)
