Help choosing Nuclear Engineering Classes?

AI Thread Summary
Engineers with experience suggest that while specific classes may not significantly impact employment in the nuclear engineering field, choosing courses that align with personal interests and excelling in them is crucial. The discussion emphasizes that university coursework often lacks direct real-world application, so demonstrating knowledge through performance is key. For those aiming for a career in nuclear power generation, recommended courses include Nuc E 511, Nuc E 521, Nuc E 502, ME 461, and ME 442. Tailoring classes to career goals is encouraged, especially for those seeking employment soon. Overall, focusing on personal interests and academic performance is vital for future job prospects in nuclear engineering.
StudioSaturn
Messages
9
Reaction score
0
Hey I was hoping some of the established engineers on here could help me out. I have my B.S. in Physics, I work as an electrical engineer, and I'm starting my second semester for my M.S. in Nuclear Engineering. I am not currently employed in the nuclear field but I'm looking to move into it in the next year. Which classes would you guys recommend I take that would be most likely to help me in terms of employment in the NucE industry? Here's a link to my Spring 2012 options, thanks for the input!

http://www.engr.psu.edu/cde/nuce/index.html

So far I've taken Fundamentals of NucE and Nuclear and RadioChemistry
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
Unless you have a specific position in mind I don't think individual classes have a significant bearing on employment opportunities. Take the classes that interest you the most and do well in them so that you can demonstrate your knowledge to a prospective employer. Generally, university classes are pretty far removed from real-world applications and won't really improve your ability you to jump right into an actual job.
 
Cool thanks Quantum, good advice, I figured that was probably going to be the case. I'm hoping to find employment soon so I can tailor my classes toward an actual career.
 
You want to work in nuclear power generation I assume?

If so, look into Nuc E 511, Nuc E 521, Nuc E 502, ME 461, and ME 442.
 
Hello, I'm currently trying to compare theoretical results with an MCNP simulation. I'm using two discrete sets of data, intensity (probability) and linear attenuation coefficient, both functions of energy, to produce an attenuated energy spectrum after x-rays have passed through a thin layer of lead. I've been running through the calculations and I'm getting a higher average attenuated energy (~74 keV) than initial average energy (~33 keV). My guess is I'm doing something wrong somewhere...
Back
Top