Materials Science and Nuclear Engineering?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the educational pathways for conducting research in materials related to nuclear radiation and nuclear physics. It explores degree options, the relationship between materials science and nuclear engineering, and the specific courses that may be beneficial for this field of study.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests pursuing a degree in either Physics or Materials Science as a foundation for research in nuclear-related materials.
  • Another participant proposes obtaining a bachelor's degree in Materials Science followed by graduate studies in Nuclear Engineering.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes the potential benefits of a Physics degree due to its relevance to nuclear energy, with a recommendation to specialize in Nuclear Engineering at the postgraduate level.
  • Concerns are raised about how to effectively combine an undergraduate degree in Nuclear Engineering with Materials Science, noting that some programs may include relevant courses in nuclear materials.
  • It is mentioned that while some universities offer both Nuclear Engineering and Materials Science programs, not all Materials Science curricula cover radiation effects on materials.
  • A participant highlights the importance of understanding various types of radiation (neutron, gamma/X-ray, beta) and their effects on materials, as well as the significance of exposure and service environment factors.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the best degree path, with no consensus reached on a singular approach. Multiple competing views regarding the integration of materials science and nuclear engineering remain evident.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that educational structures may differ between regions, such as the UK and the US, which could influence degree choices and specializations.

stann999
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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?
 
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Physics or Materials Science, would make sense.

Jim
 
So what do I have to get a bachelor's in materials science and then go to graduate school for nuclear engineering?
 
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
 
No I can get an undergrad degree in nuclear engineering but I don't know how I would combine that with materials science.
 
stann999 said:
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
 
Last edited:
Ok thanks
 

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