Master of Engineering Science (Nuclear Engineering)

Program Overview

The UNSW Master of Engineering Science (Nuclear Engineering) equips students with a deep understanding of nuclear concepts and their applications in industries such as energy, medicine, and defense. Through hands-on projects and expert instruction, graduates develop skills in nuclear reactor theory, materials, safety, and life cycle management, preparing them for high-demand careers in the global nuclear sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The UNSW Master of Engineering Science (Nuclear Engineering) is designed for students who want to understand nuclear concepts that form the foundation of our universe. Through this degree, you’ll develop the skills to apply these concepts to a variety of industries today and the technologies of the future. This postgraduate degree teaches you the underpinning theory behind nuclear engineering techniques, technologies, and processes. This degree also provides a stream that allows graduates from traditional engineering disciplines to pursue a career in high-tech industries including nuclear science, nuclear medicine, mining and resources, energy, manufacturing, aerospace, space exploration, and defense. You’ll learn from national and international experts in the sector, including nuclear researchers from UNSW Sydney and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organization, plus shared courses with the UNSW-ASU-King’s College PLuS Alliance. The two-year postgraduate degree, taught by the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, features complex, open-ended, enquiry-based projects. You’ll develop knowledge and skills in topics such as:

• Societal, economic, and environmental considerations
• Nuclear reactor theory
• Nuclear engineering design
• Nuclear materials
• Systems engineering
• The uranium and thorium fuel cycles
• Life cycle management
• Nuclear safety
• Nuclear security and safeguards

Careers:

There is a global skills shortage in qualified nuclear engineers and nuclear graduates are highly employable. This degree will prepare you for global employment opportunities in the energy sector, as well as a variety of nuclear careers in Australia. In addition to the increasing number of new generation nuclear energy plants, existing reactors require maintenance, servicing, operations, and eventual decommissioning. You’ll also have the skills and knowledge to pursue careers in:

• Nuclear medicine
• Nuclear science research
• Mining and resources
• Advanced manufacturing
• Aerospace
• Defense
The skills you'll gain as a UNSW Nuclear Engineering graduate are in demand in the defense sector, where nuclear engineering applications are continually evolving. UNSW Engineering graduates are some of the most sought-after professional engineers in Australia and abroad thanks to the reputation of our research and teaching.