Engineering Nuclear Engineer or Nuclear Scientist?

AI Thread Summary
Nuclear Science focuses on the study of nuclear processes, with key areas including nuclear fusion and gamma ray spectroscopy. In contrast, Nuclear Engineering applies scientific principles to design and operate power plants and imaging systems. Typically, Nuclear Scientists hold a Ph.D. in Physics, while Nuclear Engineers usually have an M.S. or Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering. Job prospects in Nuclear Science are challenging due to declining funding in the U.S., but the outlook for Nuclear Engineering remains uncertain. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for making an informed career choice.
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As a career should I pick a nuclear engineer or nuclear scientist? What's the difference?
 
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Nuclear Science is the study of nuclear processes. Right now the key areas are nuclear fusion and gamma ray spectroscopy. Nuclear Engineering is the application of science to design and operate power plants and certain kinds of imagers, primarily.

A Nuclear Scientist typically has a Ph.D. in Physics. A Nuclear Engineer typically has an M.S. or Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering. The funding in the United States has been declining for Nuclear Science for a long time so it is a challenge to find work. I have no idea about the prospects for Nuclear Engineering. Maybe someone here knows more.
 
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