Nuclear engineering at Texas A&M

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the Nuclear Engineering program at Texas A&M University, focusing on the experiences and job prospects associated with the field. Participants share insights about the program's reputation, personal experiences in the nuclear engineering sector, and considerations for future students.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses fascination with nuclear engineering and seeks advice on job prospects and the value of the program.
  • Another participant asserts that Texas A&M is a reputable school for nuclear engineering but notes that job availability can be challenging, suggesting that dual majoring in mechanical or electrical engineering may enhance career options.
  • A retired nuclear engineering technician shares personal experiences, highlighting the challenges and job security of the field in the past, while also reflecting on a critical incident from their career.
  • Another participant mentions that despite knowing many graduates from the nuclear engineering program, none have found jobs specifically in that field.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express mixed views on job prospects in nuclear engineering, with some suggesting that the situation may improve in the future while others indicate a lack of job placement among graduates. There is no consensus on the overall value of the program or the job market outcomes.

Contextual Notes

Participants' experiences and opinions are influenced by personal backgrounds and the changing job market, which may not reflect current conditions or future trends. The discussion includes anecdotal evidence and subjective assessments of job security and satisfaction.

Who May Find This Useful

Prospective students considering a degree in nuclear engineering, individuals interested in the job market for engineering graduates, and those exploring dual major options in engineering fields.

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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?
 
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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.
 
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?
 
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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.
 

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