Numerous aspects of nuclear technology affect our daily lives. Specifically, nuclear engineers help to improve our safety by addressing frequent energy challenges. During an online nuclear engineering degree, students acquire the foundational knowledge of nuclear generation, its interactions, processes, and radiation measurements. These programs examine the design stages of nuclear-powered systems. At the same time, they emphasize the effects on human health and environmental security.
According to BLS.gov, the job outlook is in good shape, projecting 700 job openings for specialists in this sector. Also, BLS statistics show that -the annual yearly wage of nuclear engineers is $120,380 as of May 2021. In addition, these professionals find employment in healthcare sectors where they apply their knowledge of radiation in food supplies and disease treatment.
With its potential to provide reliable and affordable energy to humanity, a career in this field is undoubtedly gratifying. Now, let’s explore some of the best Online Nuclear Engineering Degree programs today!
Article Navigation: What is Nuclear Engineering? | General Overview: Online Nuclear Engineering Degree | How To Choose The Right Program | The Best Online Nuclear Engineering Degree Programs | Certifications & Licenses | What Can I Do With an Online Nuclear Engineering Degree? | Career Paths for Nuclear Engineers | Continuing Education & Career Advancement | Professional Organizations | FAQs | In a Nutshell!
What is Nuclear Engineering?
It is not surprising to encounter debates about nuclear physics vs. nuclear engineering. However, the goal of both disciplines is the efficient utilization of subatomic elements.
Nuclear engineering centers on the practical and peaceful exploitation of nuclear atoms to produce electricity, heat, and other radioactive and radiation-based products.
Nuclear Engineering Specializations
The core specialization areas in nuclear engineering graduate programs include:
- Nuclear Systems Design & Modeling
- Radioactive Waste Management and Treatment
- Thermal Behavior & Measurement
- Nuclear Fuel Materials and Processing
- Applications of Nuclear Process Heat
General Overview: Online Nuclear Engineering Degree
Comparing nuclear physics and nuclear engineering remains an eternal subject of discussion. But diverse learners and prospective applicants shouldn’t lose sight of the inherent skills and courses taught in these individual programs.
What To Expect
In this program, candidates will learn the fundamentals or introduction to nuclear engineering. They can expect to take courses in advanced calculus, differential equations, physics, nuclear reactor design, theory, safety, and shielding at the associate and undergraduate levels. Graduate and doctoral coursework will consolidate the lessons learned at lower levels.
Online Nuclear Engineering Degree Courses
Online nuclear engineering curriculum equips graduates for research/practice roles in the nuclear career field. Although, courses available at different institutions slightly differ depending on the degree level master, bachelor, or associate. A few of the standard coursework in this program include:
- Nuclear reactor theory
- Materials in nuclear technology
- Nuclear radiations and reactions
- Radiation shielding and safety
- Introduction to nuclear engineering
- Radiation sources, detection, and interaction
Admission Requirements
The main admission requirements involve the submission of an original college transcript, GRE test scores, and letters of recommendation. In addition, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in nuclear/mechanical engineering.
Note: Some institutions don’t emphasize the GRE scores of respective applicants.
Acquired Skills
Most nuclear engineering degree levels provide technical and soft skills-for example, safety analysis, technical support, problem-solving, logical thinking, and project management. These skills are essential to success as nuclear engineers in the industry.
Timeline
Generally, it takes 24 to 48 months to earn an associate degree in nuclear engineering. Bachelor’s programs usually take 3 to 4 years, while a master’s degree in this field takes 24 months.
From bachelor’s to master’s, it takes six years to become a nuclear engineer. For those that proceed to the doctoral level, it can further take an extra three years, which sums up to at least eight years, to earn a Ph.D. qualification in this field.
Paying for Your Online Nuclear Engineering Degree
While the tuition cost for this program might somewhat be on the high side, candidates are eligible to apply for different funding options to aid their career advancement. At the graduate level, most institutions provide research/graduate assistantships that offset the overall tuition costs and associated fees for the program. Other finance options available to students are federal government grants, GI bills for veterans and their family members, employer loans, national scholarships, etc.
How To Choose The Right Program
Before we dwell on the nuclear engineer job description nuclear engineering technology salary, let’s explore some essential prerequisites to consider before choosing a nuclear engineering degree:
Cost
The typical cost for an online nuclear engineering program differs across various institutions. On average, the tuition fee for a graduate degree in this field ranges from $550 to $1,250 per credit. Likewise, undergraduate tuition ranges from $13,000 to $18,000 per annum. The cost disparity is inevitable since in-state learners pay lesser than their out-of-state counterparts.
Note: For graduates seeking to enroll in affordable nuclear engineering colleges, it’s imperative to know that state colleges are more affordable than federal institutions.
Admission Requirements
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, nuclear, or a related field. They must meet the GRE score band and maintain an average GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Other supplementary documents for submission are unofficial transcripts, letters of recommendation, and curriculum vitae.
Program Format
Most nuclear engineering programs are available via online, hybrid, or in-person learning formats. With this in place, enrollees can choose the pedagogical pattern that suits them the most.
Location
Location is a crucial metric in this regard. For students living farther away from their institution of choice, it’s best to choose an online learning path in this case.
Accreditation
Remember this fact: a degree from an unaccredited college is at par with a degree from a defunct institution. To ensure that your degree remains relevant and prioritized by employers/recruiters, enroll in recognized (accredited) institutions.
Certification Opportunities
Different certification opportunities are obtainable across a host of colleges nationwide. We urge prospective applicants to take advantage of fee-free credentials that might surface or become available during the program.
Degree Level
A notable similarity in most nuclear engineering job descriptions is the respective applicants’ degree levels. In this field, master’s or bachelor’s degree holders are often in demand. Due to this, candidates with an associate’s degree can further boost their earning potential by advancing their careers to the postgraduate degree level.
The Best Online Nuclear Engineering Degree Programs
Due to the heavy reliance on the level of competencies of professionals in this field, most nuclear engineering jobs require applicants to hold an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree.
Now, it’s time for us to examine some of the best nuclear engineering schools in the United States that confer Master’s/bachelor’s as well as associate degrees in this field.
Associate’s Programs: Online Nuclear Engineering Degree
1. Cowley County Community College
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Degree Offered: Associate of Applied Science in Nondestructive Testing Technology
Course Duration: 2-Years
Cowley County Community College provides an AAS degree in Non-destructive Testing Technology. Students acquire the knowledge of testing procedures that notable industries utilize daily.
In addition, candidates will learn how to read blueprints, understand basic metallurgy, take measurements, and operate the tools necessary for different NDT testing techniques. Also, fundamental economics, writing & comprehension competencies, materials composure, and mid-level mathematics make up the coursework in this program.
After completing the program, graduates can:
- Maintain and Develop quality control systems
- Evaluate and Interpret results/findings based on Non-destructive testing techniques for standards, codes, and specifications
- Calibrate and setup equipment
Note: Cowley College ranks among the affordable nuclear engineering schools that offer NDT programs at the associate level
2. Lakeshore Technical College
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Degree Offered: Associate in Applied Science in Nuclear Technology
Course Duration: 16 to 24 months
This program equips practitioners with specialized in-demand training for organizations licensed to use radioactive materials.
After completing the curriculum in this field, graduates will have the in-depth knowledge to:
- Survey radiologically for radiation & radioactive contaminants
- Adhere to the instructions for using and maintaining equipment and systems at nuclear sites
- Work carefully around locations with industrial and radioactive hazards
- Become involved in the use of nuclear technologies in a range of medical, industrial, and scientific procedures
- Understand and effectively explain ideas relevant to nuclear technology in both written and conversational modes.
- Identify equipment in need of mechanical or electrical repairs.
3. Bismarck State College
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Degree Offered: Associate of Applied Science in Nuclear Power Technology
Bismarck State College, through its department of nuclear engineering, provide AAS in Nuclear Power Technology for learners aiming to advance their knowledge in this area of specialization. In conjunction with the Energy Providers Coalition for Education (EPCE), the program seeks to equip nuclear power employees with the latest technologies, techniques, and approaches in demand by recruiters.
To obtain a Nuclear Power Technology qualification at this institution, candidates will choose from one of two available tracks: non-licensed operator or instrumentation & control technician. After that, they will complete the core courses, including:
- Reactor Theory
- Facility Operations
- Overview of nuclear engineering
- Engineering Drawings, Diagrams & Schematics
Bachelor’s Programs
1. Excelsior College
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology
Course Duration: 3 to 4 years
This degree prepares undergraduates in quality assurance, health physics, chemistry, etc., related to the nuclear engineering technology sector. In addition, students can select from two technical specializations that will prepare them for careers in in-demand fields. However, they can also choose a standard degree, which allows them to create a study schedule that suits their professional aspirations.
Furthermore, learners can choose from the specialization areas in this field: General Concentration, Nuclear Leadership, and Nuclear Cybersecurity.
Upon finishing the core curriculum in this field, students can:
- Analyze, identify, and resolve nuclear discipline technical issues using general and discipline-specific concepts and methodologies. Some of this includes acknowledging and resolving societal and institutional concerns relevant to nuclear technology.
- Show a drive and dedication to learn new things and develop themselves to stay up to date with and adapt to emerging technologies.
- Show leadership qualities and apply them to the subject of nuclear engineering technology.
Master’s Programs
1. Kansas State University (KSU)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Degree Offered: Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering
Course Duration: 24 months
Kansas State University offers MS in Nuclear Engineering that prepares graduates for advanced roles in industry, government, consulting, and continuing education studies toward a doctorate. In this program, graduates can focus on research areas in energy systems, materials & mechanics, reactor analysis, e.t.c.
The department of nuclear engineering at KS allows students to access high-end facilities such as the Multiphase Microfluidics Laboratory, Mechanical Testing & Evaluation Laboratory, Multiscale Computational Physics Laboratory, and Cooling & Heating Innovation Laboratory.
Could not look up degree for "Kansas State University" using "332088"!Certifications & Licenses
After gaining the necessary years of experience functioning as a nuclear engineer, professionals can sit for the Principles & Practice of Engineering (PE) examination. Upon excelling in the test, practitioners will obtain their prestigious license from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
Note: The certificate/license may require students to complete a predetermined number of hours of continuing education before they can renew them.
What Can I Do With an Online Nuclear Engineering Degree?
The typical entry-level nuclear power plant jobs available to undergrad or graduate students include:
- Engineer
- Repair Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Safety Engineer
- Licensing Engineer
- Isotopes and Radiation Engineer
- Operations & Power Engineer
Can I Get A Job Right Out Of My Degree Program?
Students who have built industry connections will likely get jobs after their degrees in nuclear engineering or other fields.
Will there be a Demand for Nuclear Engineers in the Future?
Nuclear engineer jobs will be available in the future due to the need to replace workers for retirement. The reason is that most of the nuclear engineer job descriptions stipulate the age limit or total number of years an employee can work at a nuclear facility.
Career Paths for Nuclear Engineers
This section will examine entry-level nuclear engineering jobs available to graduates in today’s economy.
Nuclear Engineer
Nuclear engineers create, manage, and run atomic power facilities. To utilize radiation & nuclear energy to their full potential, they are engaged in the research and advancement of the tools, techniques, and technologies. Due to the range of environments they can work in, nuclear engineers can have schedules that vary depending on their specialty area. Most nuclear engineers work for federal agencies, electric power distribution, and generation companies.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual nuclear engineer salary as of May 2021 is $120,380. Also, the nuclear engineer job outlook, or employment of specialists in this field, will decline by 11% over the next ten years.
Note: Candidates with a nuclear engineering Ph.D. earn more than those with bachelor’s degrees. Due to this, nuclear engineer salary for doctoral students with sufficient work experience is substantial.
Nuclear Project Engineer
A nuclear Project Engineer provides technical expertise for every project involving nuclear systems and technology. They oversee a project’s nuclear engineering and mechanical aspects while ensuring proper risk management of the techniques involved. Likewise, employers often require the ideal candidate to possess good budgeting, planning, and project management competencies.
Based on PayScale data, the average nuclear engineering salary for professionals with project management skills is $99,443 as of June 2022.
Nuclear Safety Engineer
Nuclear Safety Engineers supervise the operation and maintenance of nuclear power installations. For example, they manage safety in nuclear power plants, ships, or other nuclear-powered facilities. In industries, they create and record nuclear safety protocols while examining the design and performance of nuclear plants. Also, they oversee the disposal and safety of nuclear waste.
According to PayScale statistics, the nuclear engineering salary for a safety specialist in this field is $97,500 as of July 2022.
Nuclear Technicians
Nuclear Technicians are responsible for fixing and maintaining nuclear power plants and system components, e.g., reactors. They carry out the maintenance & repair work necessary to guarantee the dependability of a nuclear power plant, such as fixing any electrical device faults in the system.
The median annual wage of a Nuclear Technician as of June 2022 is $67,216, based on the PayScale report.
Note: Most nuclear engineer jobs related to repairs necessitate that applicants have proven work experience in this field.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists (NMTs)
Nuclear Medicine Technologists adhere to safety precautions to avoid exposing patients and themselves to unwanted radiation during an emergency. They prepare & administer radioactive-related drugs to patients when necessary while maintaining thorough documentation of all drug reactions in affected persons. In addition, they provide advice regarding radiation disposal in the environment.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual Salary of NMTs is $78,760 as of May 2021. Furthermore, the employment of professionals in this field will grow by 2% between 2021 to 2031. Likewise, other entry-level nuclear power plant jobs will also experience a steady rise during the same period.
Radiation and Isotopes Engineer
Radiation and Isotopes Engineer develops effective isotopes utilized in pharmaceuticals, medicine, and other industrial processes. Also, they are responsible for running tests to verify and assess the effects of radiation in various contexts. Additionally, they carry out theoretical analyses and report on the functionality of systems or equipment both before and after radiation exposure.
In this field, a nuclear engineer starting salary for radiation specialists is $78,832 as of June 2022.
Note: Nuclear engineering jobs for experts in this field are easily accessible via resources provided by various professional associations or organizations serving the nuclear technology sector.
Continuing Education & Career Advancement
Graduates in this field can continue to advance in their career by further taking courses, such as radioactive engineering, that exposes them to advanced concepts of nuclear and atomic physics. Via this program, they will have in-depth knowledge of radioactive decay, neutron interactions & fission, and the interaction of various radiation particles with matter.
To save on such education, candidates can opt for nuclear engineering degree online institutions that offer such courses or programs.
Professional Organizations
It’s imperative to join an association for industry-based resources and information in this field. Via these organizations, graduates can build industry connections that will fast-track their career growth and employment before and after graduation.
- American Nuclear Society (ANS)
- European Nuclear Society (ENS)
- World Nuclear Association (WNA)
- International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU)
- Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO)
- International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP)
- Institute of Nuclear Materials Management (INMM)
FAQs
In this segment, we will examine the most frequent nuclear engineer degree questions that students often ask in this field:
What degree does a nuclear engineer need?
Most entry-level nuclear engineering jobs often require candidates to hold an undergraduate degree in engineering fields or a related science field. Also, some careers, including those in research & development, require and favor applicants with a master’s degree in this domain.
Is nuclear engineering a bachelor’s degree?
Depending on the level of academic competencies, a nuclear engineering degree is either a bachelor’s or a master’s. Most of the bachelor’s degree coursework in this field cut across fission systems, health physics, etc.
How long is a nuclear engineering degree?
A nuclear engineering degree typically takes three years to complete at the bachelor’s level. In comparison, a master’s in this same field takes additional two years to complete.
Note: For those without an undergraduate degree in this field, earning a graduate degree (master’s) will take between 4 to 5 years.
What degree do you need to be a nuclear engineer?
The majority of nuclear engineering degree comprises science-related subjects. Due to this, institution mainly requires students to possess a relevant engineering degree before enrollment.
Is nuclear engineering dangerous?
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Will there be a demand for nuclear engineers in the future?
Despite a decline in employment, over 700 opportunities will be available for nuclear engineers over the next ten years. All those positions will become available due to the necessity to replace employees who change careers or leave the workforce due to retirement.
Are masters in nuclear engineering salaries worth it?
Based on reports from current practitioners, a master’s in nuclear engineering salary is worth it and far more than the average in other occupations.
What are the best schools for nuclear engineering?
A few of the best schools in nuclear engineering include Kansas State University, Lakeshore Technical College, and Excelsior College.
How many years of college to be a nuclear engineer?
From undergraduate to master’s level, degrees in nuclear engineering take between four to five years to complete. However, nuclear engineering Ph.D. takes up to seven years to earn.
In a Nutshell!
Online Nuclear Engineering Degree Programs equip you for careers in academia or industry. They provide a robust grounding in the engineering and science that governs modern nuclear energy technologies.
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