Applied Systems Engineering for Space Missions

Engineer the Mission. Master the System. Deliver with Confidence.

Space missions succeed or fail based on disciplined systems engineering. This course provides practical, NASA-style systems engineering training using the NASA Systems Engineering Handbook (SP-2016-6105 Rev. 2) as its core reference.

Designed for working engineers, technical leads, and professionals entering aerospace, the course emphasizes applied, real-world deliverables rather than traditional exams. Participants learn to translate stakeholder needs into verifiable requirements; develop a mission-ready Concept of Operations (ConOps); conduct trade studies; manage interfaces and risk; and prepare for SRR/PDR/CDR life cycle reviews.

Throughout the course, students build industry-relevant artifacts that mirror those used in real mission reviews. The course culminates in a compact mini-PDR package demonstrating end-to-end systems engineering discipline and providing a strong portfolio credential for mission-driven engineering teams.

• Systems Engineering Life cycle Overview (NASA framing; mission gates
• Stakeholder Needs and Requirements Development
• Concept of Operations (ConOps)
• Architecture Definition and Trade Studies
• Interface Definition and Integration Planning (ICDs)
• Risk Management (matrix, mitigations, ownership)
• Verification Planning and Review Readiness (SRR/PDR/CDR)
• Configuration Control and Change Management
• Mission Operations and Lessons Learned

Course Learning Outcomes: 

• Apply NASA life cycle principles from mission concept through operations
• Develop clear, testable system-level requirements and map verification methods
• Create a mission-aligned Concept of Operations (ConOps)
• Conduct structured trade studies and document design decisions
• Define subsystem interfaces and manage integration risk
• Build and maintain a risk register with mitigations and ownership
• Produce a Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM)
• Assemble a professional mini-PDR package suitable for industry use

Course Typically Offered: Online in Fall and Spring quarters.

Prerequisites: Engineering or technical background recommended. Ideal for early-career systems engineers, aerospace professionals, and engineers transitioning into mission-driven environments. Curiosity and willingness to engage in structured technical documentation are essential.

Next Step: After completing this course, consider taking other courses in our Systems Engineering Professional Certificate program. 

Contact: For more information about this course, please email unexengr@ucsd.edu.