Nuclear engineering at Texas A&M

[Dayeed]

Hey guys I got accepted into A&M's Nuclear Engineering program (undergraduate) for Spring 2015. I am interested in nuclear engineering because the whole idea of splitting the atom and the physics involved fascinates me, but I am not sure about the job prospects for nuclear engineering. I am very confused and want some advice.

• What do you guys have to say about A&M's nuclear program?
• Is nuclear engineering worth it?

 

[QuantumPion]

A&M is a good nuke school.

Jobs can be tough to find in the current environment, but the situation may be completely different by the time you graduate. There are a lot of baby boomers retiring. I would highly recommend dual majoring in mechanical or electrical engineering to broaden your career options.

 

[Doug Huffman]

I retired in 1995 a senior nuclear engineering technician with an engineer title for which I had to biannually re-qualify. The personal challenges were huge, the job security was good then, but the pay would have been better in the private sector (absolutely balanced by zero security).

I had vast adventures, an adventure being a disaster avoided. One - I was shifting from main cooling to decay heat removal cooling with the vessel head bolts loosened. My temperature limit was a long way from saturation, but the operator confused adjacent valves. I ordered more cooling, he responded, but the T kept increasing - and I was not allowed to leave the control room with not-stable plant conditions. I called a co-worker from the office and the problem was solved. I smoked a cigarette in one drag and still tear up at the memory.

Edited to add after seeing the above. My background was nuclear control and instrumentation electronics.

So, what satisfaction are you seeking?

 

[Dr.D]

Overall, TAMU is a great engineering school.

Of all the folks I have known who majored in NE (quite a few), not a one of them ever found a job in NE.

 

[Matrix0]

Congratulations on your acceptance into Texas A&M's Nuclear Engineering program! Nuclear engineering is a fascinating field that combines physics, chemistry, and engineering principles to harness the power of nuclear reactions. It is understandable that you may have some concerns about job prospects in this field, as it is a highly specialized area of engineering. However, it is important to note that nuclear engineering is a rapidly growing field with a wide range of job opportunities in industries such as power generation, national defense, and medical applications.

In regards to A&M's nuclear program, it is recognized as one of the top programs in the country and has a strong reputation for producing highly skilled and knowledgeable graduates. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of nuclear engineering, and also provides opportunities for hands-on experience through research projects and internships.

As for whether nuclear engineering is worth it, it ultimately depends on your interests and career goals. If you have a passion for nuclear science and technology, and are willing to put in the hard work and dedication required to excel in this field, then it can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path. It is also worth noting that the demand for nuclear engineers is expected to increase in the coming years, as the world continues to seek cleaner and more sustainable sources of energy.

My advice would be to research the various job opportunities in nuclear engineering and consider speaking with professionals in the field to get a better understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities and career potential. Ultimately, the decision to pursue a degree in nuclear engineering should be based on your personal interests and goals. Best of luck in your studies at A&M!