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Prepare for a career in the nuclear industry through our Nuclear Decommissioning and Waste Management Masters programme. Develop the scientific understanding and practical skills to address challenges in nuclear decommissioning, waste management and remediation.
Enhance your understanding of nuclear sciences, geosciences and materials science, preparing you for an exciting job or research role. There’s a high demand for skilled graduates in this field as work continues to decommission the current fleet of reactors.
You'll begin the programme with an intro/induction day and then focus on gaining fundamentals in nuclear science and technology in terms of gaining knowledge and experience of practical and computing skills. Later on in the term you'll begin to learn specialist knowledge in your chosen area.
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We blend foundational knowledge and practical skill which you'll be taught by our experts. you'll also benefit from our extensive links into industry and regulators, both in the UK and internationally, so you’ll be well placed for an exciting future. Our course teaches a broad range of topics and you can also specialise in your chosen area of interest with a research project.
Benefit from the University's distinguished history in nuclear research and education since the industry's inception.
5th in the UK - Complete University Guide 2025
You'll be taught by world-leading academic staff from different Schools within the University. Learning is via lectures and practical sessions, supported by field trips and industry seminars.
You'll complete 180 credits. 120 credits are assessed through the core taught modules and 60 credits are awarded following the successful completion of your research project.
Module Title | Credits | Semester |
---|---|---|
Independent Research Project in Nuclear Decommissioning and Waste Management | 60 | Summer |
Nuclear Radiation, Dosimetry and Shielding, and the Nuclear Fuel Cycle | 20 | Semester 1 |
Policy, Regulation & Management | 20 | Semester 2 |
Practical & Applied Studies B | 20 | Semester 2 |
Processing, Storage & Disposal of Nuclear Waste | 20 | Semester 1 |
Site Decommissioning & Environmental Management | 20 | Semester 2 |
Practical & Applied Studies A | 20 | Semester 1 |
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
(eg, physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, mathematics, geoscience or any physical sciences subject). 2.2 degrees may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on modules taken.
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Full-time
Part-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
You'll be in high demand thanks to the significant shortage of skilled graduates in nuclear decommissioning and waste management, both in the UK and globally. You'll graduate as a highly trained professional ready to make an impact in the Nuclear Industry. The research skills you'll acquire during this course will also lay a strong foundation for pursuing further postgraduate study towards a PhD.
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham has developed into a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.