The University of Birmingham has over 50 years’ experience in preparing students for successful careers in the nuclear industry. We are one of the leading centres for nuclear study and research.
Over the next ten years the UK will embark on an ambitious program of commissioning nuclear energy, creating opportunities for graduates – from plant design and construction to finding sustainable ways of recycling nuclear materials. These new degree courses have been designed in response to demand from industry to equip students with the knowledge and skills to provide non-fossil fuel alternatives for our future energy requirements.
This challenging and growing field offers a range of well-paid careers for graduates with strong technical and scientific skills.
The BSc in Nuclear Science and Materials and MEng in Nuclear Engineering degrees bring together a range of modules drawn from top ranked Schools across the University. Students will study modules drawn from the Schools of Physics (ranked 2nd in the UK in The Times Good University Guide 2011) and Metallurgy and Materials (ranked 6th in the UK), meaning that you will receive a first class grounding in the issues facing the nuclear industry today, taught by some of the leaders in their field.
Core modules in your first year will include Fundamentals of Material Science, Classical Mechanics and Relativity and Fluid Flow and Thermodynamics. You will also study computing and mathematics to ensure that you have the essential skills for higher study in further years.
In your second year you will study subjects including Nuclear Physics and Fracture, Fatigue and Corrosion. In your final year you will study a range of highly specialised topics developed in conjunction with our partners in industry, including Design of Reactors and Radiation Protection and Detection. Students who choose to follow the MEng in Nuclear Engineering route will have the opportunity to study further specialised topics in their fourth year, as well as to work towards an independently accredited degree.
These courses have been designed to ensure that you have the theoretical foundations necessary to conduct further research in this growing area, or to obtain a graduate role in a range of disciplines from reactor management to radiation safety. We have strong links with a range of companies including Magnox North, NNL, British Energy, AMEC, Rolls-Royce M, Serco, HSE (NII), Atkins, Babcock Marine, AWE, Nuclear Tech., Frazer-Nash, BAE Systems, Westinghouse, Canberra, UKAEA, Aldersgate, EDF, E.ON and RWE NPower, giving you access to placement opportunities and careers advice.