- #1
end3r7
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I understand that nuclear power is not very "in" here in the US of A, but Texas A&M offers a good nuclear engineering program. I was wondering if you guys would recommend getting a degree in it or not.
So, would a nuclear engineering degree be good now?
- Thread starter end3r7
- Start date
In summary, although nuclear power may not be popular in the US, Texas A&M offers a reputable nuclear engineering program. It may be beneficial for those interested in pursuing a career in nuclear engineering to also specialize in another field, such as mechanical, structural, electrical, aerospace, or materials engineering, in order to increase job opportunities and security. Additionally, the nuclear industry is still active in areas such as operation, maintenance, auditing, and decommissioning, making these aspects just as important as planning and designing in the first place. However, it is important for engineers to be diverse and have multiple specialties in order to ensure job security in today's world.
- #2
brewnog
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Even when there's no nuclear plants being built, there's always nuclear plants being operated, maintained, audited, and decommissioned. These aspects are arguably more important than planning, designing and commissioning in the first place.
Do you want a degree in nuclear engineering? If you're that worried about career prospects, perhaps you could consider studying a broader discipline for your undergrad degree, and then specialising in nuc eng later (either in an academic or industrial environment).
Do you want a degree in nuclear engineering? If you're that worried about career prospects, perhaps you could consider studying a broader discipline for your undergrad degree, and then specialising in nuc eng later (either in an academic or industrial environment).
- #3
end3r7
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It isn't for me, it's actually for a friend (I know it may sound like I'm lying but I truly ain't).
He is a good friend, and I was worried if he would find a career, although I probably should be worrying about sorting out my life most of all.
He is a good friend, and I was worried if he would find a career, although I probably should be worrying about sorting out my life most of all.
- #4
Morbius
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end3r7,end3r7 said:
Texas A & M is a very good school in the Nuclear Engineering field.
I number a couple of friends on the TAMU NE faculty. Prof. Fred Best was one of my
contemporaries when I was a graduate student at M.I.T. Prof. Marvin Adams was
formerly one of my collegues here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
Dr. Gregory Greenman
Physicist
- #5
Astronuc
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MIT has a great program too. 
Actually I would recommend if one goes into nuclear, also try to specialize in another field like mechanical, structural, electrical, aerospace, or materials, or perhaps even physics. The field is very competitive.
Unfortunately NASA's Prometheus program has stalled, but NASA is continuing to look at nuclear energy for space applications.
The NAVY has an ongoing nuclear propulsion program, and the commercial nuclear power industry is ongoing, but it is somewhat fluid in terms of hiring and downsizing.
The nuclear industry does need engineers with a good materials background.
In the world of today, engineers need to be more diverse, i.e. specialists in two or more engineering disciplines, in order to have job security.
Actually I would recommend if one goes into nuclear, also try to specialize in another field like mechanical, structural, electrical, aerospace, or materials, or perhaps even physics. The field is very competitive.
Unfortunately NASA's Prometheus program has stalled, but NASA is continuing to look at nuclear energy for space applications.
The NAVY has an ongoing nuclear propulsion program, and the commercial nuclear power industry is ongoing, but it is somewhat fluid in terms of hiring and downsizing.
The nuclear industry does need engineers with a good materials background.
In the world of today, engineers need to be more diverse, i.e. specialists in two or more engineering disciplines, in order to have job security.
1. Is nuclear engineering a good degree to pursue currently?
Yes, nuclear engineering is a highly sought-after degree in today's job market. With the growing demand for clean and sustainable energy sources, the need for nuclear engineers is increasing.
2. What kind of job opportunities are available with a nuclear engineering degree?
There are various job opportunities available with a nuclear engineering degree, including roles in nuclear power plants, research and development, government agencies, and consulting firms. Nuclear engineers can also work in other industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and defense.
3. Are there any specific skills or qualifications required for a career in nuclear engineering?
Apart from a degree in nuclear engineering, strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills are essential for a successful career in this field. Additionally, a solid understanding of physics, chemistry, and mathematics is also necessary.
4. What is the salary potential for a nuclear engineer?
The salary potential for a nuclear engineer is quite high, with an average salary of around $105,000 per year in the United States. However, this can vary depending on the specific job role, location, and experience level.
5. Is the nuclear engineering field expected to grow in the future?
Yes, the demand for nuclear engineers is expected to grow in the future as the world continues to shift towards clean and sustainable energy sources. Additionally, advancements in technology and research will also create new job opportunities in this field.
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