2021 marks the 100th anniversary of the Soviet space programme launch and the 60th anniversary of the first human journey into outer space. On April 12, 1961, the Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin entered low-earth orbit on the first human-operated spacecraft Vostok-1. A little earlier, the USSR launched the first satellite, and in 1965 Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman in space.
These events marked the beginning of mankind's space era, the rapid development of technology and the training of specialists in the design of the most modern aircraft.
Space exploration is possible thanks to the immense amount of work done by qualified scientists, engineers and designers and the high level of their education. Russian universities offer a wide range of programmes to help you start a career in one of the most challenging and promising fields at the intersection of science and industry.
Samara University is a unique scientific and educational centre that trains future professionals in aerospace technologies. The university has always been highly engaged in spacecraft, military and civil aircraft design, including the legendary Il-2 fighter jet. University scientists took part in the most famous projects, including the Vostok programme. Thanks to Vostok world's first manned, 24-hour and group flights were launched, as well as the first human in space. Graduates of Samara University continue to develop the aerospace industry today in leading state and global organizations.
For international applicants, the university has prepared more than 30 programmes in Aviation and rocket-space technology and Air navigation and operation of aviation and rocket-space technology. You can choose one of the Russian-taught programmes of any academic level: Design of aircraft engines and power plants, Aviation and air transportation, Advanced space technologies and experiments in space, Innovative Technologies in Rocket Propulsion Engineering, Rocket transport systems, etc. Or complete education in English: Design of aircraft engines and power plants and Composition and Design of Gas Turbine Engines and Power Plants (jointly with Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics (Chine)).
ITMO University is widely known for the high-level education for various specialists in engineering and technical profile. For those interested in the aerospace field, the Motion Control Systems and Navigation programme is most suitable. Skills in programming, Big data analysis and control theory will allow you to become a unique specialist in the highly accurate calibration of various navigation systems.
You can continue your studies on the English-language master's programme in Rocket Systems and Astronautics and expand your competencies to modern digital technologies, robotics, 3D modelling, signal processing methods and software systems.
The Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology holds a strong position as one of the long-standing leaders in international subject rankings among the leading educational tech centres. Nobel laureates Alexei Abrikosov, Vitaly Ginzburg, Pyotr Kapitsa, Lev Landau and many other famous scientists taught and worked at MIPT. The university has already graduated more than 6,000 Doctors of science, about 17,000 PhDs and more than 150 members of the Russian Academy of Sciences. MIPT carries fundamental education for specialists in mathematics, physics, computer science, chemistry and related disciplines. More than 60 international MIPT programmes are available to international applicants.
Pay attention to the Master's in Systems of Flight Control and Navigation at the Department of Aerophysical and Flight Experiment and the Department of Special Aircraft and Aviation Information and Measuring Systems. Its curriculum includes the subjects in research, analytics, design, technology, development and production. These will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the specifics of the aerospace industry. The MIPT PhD programmes in aerodynamics, aircraft traffic control, information processing will help you reach a new academic level and start a career as a scientist.
Sechenov University is one of the few educational organizations in the world directing programmes for medical personnel in the aerospace industry. The Aerospace Medicine residency prepares doctors who will ensure the health and safety of the crew and passengers in difficult flight conditions. The training includes a substantial amount of practice in clinics with modern equipment and interactive and multimedia technologies.
National Research Tomsk State University offers international applicants a wide range of technical programmes, such as the Bachelor's Degree in Ballistics and Hydroaerodynamics and the Master's Degree in Ballistics of Rocket and Barrel Systems. TSU will allow you to become a highly qualified design and construction specialist of spacecraft and missiles. Scientists from the university are actively working in this area – in March 2021 they received a state grant for the ultralight rockets and solid-propellant rocket engines project.
Make your choice now and start building a successful career in the missile and space industry, aircraft manufacturing, airlines, airports and engineering services, flight control centres, space agencies and research organizations. Choose one or several programmes and send your application directly to the university for free!
