Space Industry Courses

Fife College is thrilled to announce the launch of new courses to support Scotland’s fast growing space industry. This initiative marks a pioneering venture for us, introducing an entirely new area of study aimed at equipping our student community with the skills and knowledge to pursue employment in companies building satellites or using space data.

Our space sector covers everything from building electronic components to full satellites, controlling them from the ground and then using the information collected to track pollution, understand weather or even manage a farm. Scotland is also forecast to be the first country in Europe to launch a rocket later this year. It is such an exciting time to be part of the space industry and Fife College is delighted to launch space skills programmes.

Space Microcredentials

Learn about the space industry and satellites with Fife College’s Space Microcredentials courses, designed in collaboration with City of Glasgow College and funded by the UK Space Agency.

 

Dive into three engaging units:

  • Space Science and Sector
  • Sustainable Satellite Manufacturing
  • Electronics and Eco Design

 

Each unit, representing about 10 hours of learning, offers a deep dive into critical aspects of space technology and eco-friendly innovations in satellite development. These free, fully online courses are perfect for anyone passionate about the space industry and eager to explore the frontiers of space and technology. Enrol now and propel your interest to new heights!

Email spacemicrocredentials@fife.ac.uk to receive your enrolment information.

Did you Know...? Scotland builds more satellites than anywhere outside the USA!

satelite on ground with sky in background
satelite in space with planet in background

This is a new programme also funded by the UK Space Agency. The aim of this programme is to provide students with the knowledge and understanding of geospatial systems and support them to gain employment in one of the many sectors that use geospatial data.

 

What is Geospatial Information?

Geospatial information is data that is connected to a specific location on the Earth. This information tells us where things are and can include maps, satellite images, GPS data, and other types of spatial data. Essentially, it's about understanding "where" things happen and "how" they relate to each other in space.

  • 1

    Mapping

    Creating maps to visualise various types of information, such as weather patterns, population distribution, or transportation networks.
  • 2

    Navigational

    Using GPS technology to help people find the best routes for traveling from one place to another.
  • 3

    Environmental Monitoring

    Tracking changes in the environment, such as deforestation, pollution levels, or wildlife habitats.
  • 4

    Urban Planning

    Helping city planners design and manage urban spaces by understanding where to build new roads, schools, or parks.
  • 5

    Disaster Management

    Identifying areas at risk for natural disasters like floods or earthquakes and planning emergency response strategies.

What is the Geospatial Foundation Skills Programme?

This is a new programme, currently in development. It will be the first of its kind in Colleges in the UK. The aim is to provide foundation skills in understanding geospatial systems and their application in a range of industries. People who complete the course will have skills suitable for entry level positions.

 

The programme will consist of:

  1. Introduction to Geospatial Systems
  2. Introduction to Digital Images
  3. Image Processing for Space Data Applications
  4. Types of Data, Data Sources, and Data Collection
  5. Introduction to Cartography including 2D and 3D maps
  6. Applications of Geospatial Information Systems

What types of jobs might be open to someone with geospatial skills?

Role: Assist in creating and maintaining geospatial databases, digitising maps, and updating spatial data.

Skills Used: Basic GIS software proficiency, data management, and map creation.

Role: Gather geospatial data using GPS devices or mobile data collection apps for various projects, such as environmental studies or urban planning.

Skills Used: GPS use, data collection, and basic data entry.

Role: Support cartographers and GIS professionals in producing maps and spatial data visualisations.

Skills Used: Cartography principles, GIS software, and map design.

Role: Collect and analyse environmental data, such as water quality or pollution levels, and report findings to support environmental conservation efforts.

Skills Used: Field data collection, basic geospatial analysis, and environmental monitoring.

Role: Assist urban planners by gathering and organising spatial data, creating maps, and conducting basic analysis to support planning decisions.

Skills Used: Data management, GIS software, and urban planning basics.

Role: Optimise routes for transportation and delivery services using GIS tools to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Skills Used: Route optimisation, GIS software, and data analysis.

Role: Help in planning and executing emergency response strategies by mapping risk areas and creating evacuation plans.

Skills Used: Spatial analysis, map creation, and emergency planning.

Role: Work with utility companies to map and maintain infrastructure like water, gas, and electric lines, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records. 

Skills Used: GIS software, data management, and infrastructure mapping.

Role: Assist in precision farming by collecting and analysing geospatial data related to crop health, soil conditions, and water usage.

Skills Used: GPS use, data collection, and basic GIS analysis.