Which MSE Minor Concentration is Best for an NE Major?

[Cumberland]

For an NE major, would a ceramics or metals emphasis be a better choice for a materials science minor? I don't start upper level NE courses until next semester, but I've already taken the prerequisite MSE intro course and want to enroll in an upper level MSE course also.

I'm assuming polymers are out of the question.

 

[Astronuc]

One would probably want to do ceramics and metals, since there are applications for ceramics and metal alloys in a variety of nuclear applications. Nuclear power reactors are just one of many applications. There are many applications for neutrons and gamma radiation.

I wouldn't discount polymers. We often see emerging technologies when we learn something new or better understand the science/physics.

One important area of development these days is computational materials science/engineering in conjunction with computational multiphysics. A radiation field just adds one more layer of complexity to what would otherwise be a conventional (non-nuclear) multiphysics problem.

 

[raining Pete]

It ultimately depends on your personal interests and career goals. Both ceramics and metals are important materials in the field of nuclear engineering, so either emphasis could be a good choice. However, if you have a specific interest in one over the other, that could help guide your decision. Additionally, consider which emphasis may complement your NE major courses better and provide a well-rounded understanding of materials science. As for polymers, while they may not be directly related to nuclear engineering, they are still an important material to have knowledge of, so it could be worth considering as well. Ultimately, I would recommend talking to an advisor or upperclassmen in the NE department for more specific guidance. Good luck with your decision!