Nuclear Engineering Program at KSU
The minor degree in Nuclear Engineering at KSU is designed to respond to the critical needs of the nuclear industry for technical workforce. The program is also structured to expand and enhance the options and opportunities for our students.
A minor in nuclear engineering not only benefits those looking for a career in the nuclear industry but also provides a competitive edge for those who pursue opportunities outside the nuclear industry. Employers typically recognize the mission critical nature of the nuclear industry and value the discipline that accompanies this particular branch of engineering. Our nuclear program graduates are recognized not only for a degree in mechanical, electrical, systems, mechatronics, or civil engineering as their program major but also for their rigor, smarts and dedication in complementing their normal course of study with a minor in nuclear engineering. For those graduates who pursue careers in the nuclear industry, they deliver the education and training of two engineering disciplines. For those who seek employment outside the nuclear industry, a minor in nuclear engineering allows them to punch above their major degree’s weight and standout among their peers.
Our graduates with a minor in nuclear engineering have started rewarding careers in the fields of nuclear power generation, R&D at national labs, medical imaging and nuclear medicine, architect engineering, consulting, and training among others. For those who chose to pursue non-nuclear careers, most have received outstanding opportunities partly due to the additional value of their “two-in-one” educational package. Employers are also interested in extending our students exceptional internships and co-ops opportunities both inside and outside of the nuclear industry. Read on and learn more about how a minor degree in nuclear engineering can serve as a major power booster for your engineering degree.
A pathway to careers in the Nuclear Industry
Nuclear technology continues to play an important role across a number of industries including electric power, medicine, food, defense, research, and manufacturing. Currently about 20% of U.S. electricity is supplied by nuclear power and a sizeable percentage of all medical procedures include some form of nuclear medicine practice. Important considerations such as increased projected demand for electricity, sustainable economic development, global warming, and vulnerability to foreign sourcing are among the factors that have resulted in a revival of interest in the nuclear power industry. In response to this renewed level of interest and in order to address the industry’s concern for the shortage of skilled technical workers, the Center for Nuclear Studies at Kennesaw State University, offers an academic degree based course of studies.
The academic program is offered through the Department of Mechanical Engineering and leads to a minor degree in Nuclear Engineering. This program is open to all undergraduate students in the School of Engineering, qualified students in the School of Engineering Technology, the School of Arts and Sciences, and qualified graduate students.
KSU also offers a certificate based program in nuclear studies. The certificate program is offered through the Continuing Education Department and is comprised of a number of focused technical workshops. Training is provided in nuclear power plant construction, operation, maintenance, quality assurance quality control, health physics, and nuclear plant heavy duty cranes operations.
Nuclear power is the most prominent and visible sector of the nuclear industry. Electricity produced from nuclear reactors has proven to be one of the safest, cleanest, and most sustainable forms of base-load energy capable of meeting the electrical demands of the public. The Southeast region has particularly benefited from this reliable source of energy. Consequently, a majority of the next generation of nuclear plants are slated to be built in this area. In 2012, four new nuclear plants received their combined construction and operating licenses for the first time in nearly 30 years. Two of these plants are being constructed in Georgia and two in South Carolina. In addition to these approved applications, sixteen other applications are also under review by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). The majority of these plants are slated to be constructed in the southern United States. Once underway, these projects will create a substantial demand for high-paying technical and professional positions.
KSU is committed to supporting the growth of the nuclear industry by offering academic and continuing education courses in nuclear engineering. These courses are designed to provide the students with the knowledge and the skills that are needed to address the industry's challenging issues. Students enrolled in the academic engineering program will have the opportunity to become prepared for an exciting and rewarding career in the nuclear industry. For further information about these offerings, please visit the corresponding sections of the website.
