Materials Science and Nuclear Engineering?

[stann999]

If I would like to do research in materials having to do with nuclear radiation and nuclear physics, what type of degree path should I follow?

[lufbrajames]

Physics or Materials Science, would make sense.

Jim

[stann999]

So what do I have to get a bachelor's in materials science and then go to graduate school for nuclear engineering?

[lufbrajames]

I don't know where you are, but i think, if possible, it would be better to go for a physics degree, because it will have more content relating to nuclear energy.

Then specialise in nuclear engineering for your post grad stuff.

I'm in the UK and you can even do specific undergraduate degrees in nuclear engineering. Its different in the UK where you entire time at undergrad is specialised to one subject, unlike the US.

Jim

[stann999]

No I can get an undergrad degree in nuclear engineering but I don't know how I would combine that with materials science.

[Astronuc]

No I can get an undergrad degree in nuclear engineering but I don't know how I would combine that with materials science. I received degrees in Nuclear Engineering and took courses in Materials Science. Some nuclear engineering programs have courses in nuclear materials, that is materials used in the nuclear reactor and power plant environment.

Some universities have both Nuclear Engineering and Materials Science programs. Usually, Materials Science programs do not include a course in radiation effects on materials.

One might also consider engineering physics with materials science. For the school of interest, find any course on radiation effects on materials, or materials in nuclear environment.

Bascially one is concerned with neutron, gamma/X-ray and beta irradation. Dose (exposure) and dose rate are important, as is the initial state (composition and microstructure), as well as service environment (temperature, pressure/stress, and contact with other materials, e.g. coolants like water, CO2, liquid metals, etc.).

FYI - http://www.astm.org/BOOKSTORE/STP_SERIES/RadEffects.htm

[stann999]

Ok thanks