The University of Birmingham has a long and established track record of research and education in the nuclear sector, including reactor technology, metallurgy and materials, decommissioning and waste management, dating back to the earliest days of the nuclear industry.

The University runs one of the longest-standing Masters level courses in the nuclear sector (over 50 years), in the Physics and Technology of Nuclear Reactors (PTNR). The University has extensive links to the nuclear industry and regulators both within the UK and internationally, including National Nuclear Labs, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Idaho National Labs, NAGRA, British Energy, AMEC, Serco, HSE (NII), Atkins, Babcock Marine, Westinghouse, UKAEA, EDF, E.ON and RWE NPower.

Why choose Birmingham?

• Exploit the career opportunities in a growing sector, with demand for high quality graduates increasing with the decommissioning of the current fleet of reactors
• Develop research skills that will also provide a strong foundation for further postgraduate study
• Build relevant skills and knowledge in nuclear sciences, geosciences and materials science to prepare graduates like you for a career in nuclear decommissioning, waste management and remediation

This course consists of 180 credits. 120 credits are assessed through the core taught modules and 60 credits are awarded following the successful completion of your research project.

Nuclear Radiation and Dosimetry – 10 credits
– Covering Nuclear Radiation and Decay, Radiation Detection, Radiation Dosimetry and Radiation Protection

Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Radiation Shielding –10 credits
– Covering Reactor Systems, Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Radiation Shielding and Introduction to Radiochemistry

Processing, Storage and Disposal of Nuclear Waste – 20 credits
– Covering Waste Forms and Classification, Waste Processing and Treatment, Encapsulation, Waste Management and
Storage, and Geological Storage

Site Decommissioning and Environmental Management – 20 credits
– Covering Environmental Impact of Nuclear Power, Site Monitoring and Assessment, Decommissioning, Environmental
Remediation and Environmental Modelling 

Policy, Regulation and Management – 20 credits
– Covering Policy, Public Perception and Accountability, Nuclear Regulation for Waste Management, Programme  Management and Contracts, and Project Appraisal and Financing

Practical and Applied Studies A – 20 credits
– Covering Radiation Detection and Measurement Lab, Materials and Analysis Lab and Computing and Numerical Analysis

Practical and Applied Studies B – 20 credits
– Covering Materials and Analysis Lab, Computing and Numerical Analysis and Case Study Exercise

Research Project 60 credits
– Covering project work and thesis

Please note: The modules listed on the website for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

• Dr Mark Read

Annual tuition fees for 2018/19 are as follows:

• UK/EU students: £9,000 full-time, £4500 part-time
• International students: £20,610

Learn more about fees and funding.

Scholarships and studentships

Some students on this programme receive BBSRC or EPSRC funding. 
International students can often gain funding through overseas research scholarships, Commonwealth scholarships or their home government.

For further information contact the School directly or email  sfo@contacts.bham.ac.uk

A 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject (eg, Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Geoscience or any Physical
Science subject). Lower entry requirements may be acceptable if you demonstrate appropriate knowledge and skills. Learn more about entry requirements. 

International students

We accept a range of qualifications from different countries – learn more about international entry requirements. Standard English language requirements apply.

International students requiring visas

Monday 3 July 2017 is the application deadline for international students who require a visa to study in the United Kingdom. Applications received after this date will not be considered. Applications will reopen for 2018 entry on 15 September 2017.

Before you make your application

You may wish to register your interest with us to receive regular news and updates on postgraduate life within this Department and the wider University.

Making your application

When clicking on the Apply Now button you will be directed to an application specifically designed for the programme you wish to apply for where you will create an account with the University application system and submit your application and supporting documents online. Further information regarding how to apply online can be found on the How to apply pages

Apply now