MSc Physics and Technology of Nuclear Reactors

The environmental impact from the use of fossil fuels and the uncertainties in their sources of supply has led to many alternative energy sources being investigated. But of these, only nuclear fission power is at present sufficiently developed to provide an economically viable alternative to fossil fuels.

This programme began in 1956 with the build of the first nuclear reactor in Britain. Since then we have continually updated the areas of study and degree of specialisation to reflect the increasing sophistication of the field. At the same time, we have maintained the overall breadth of the course because we feel this allows new entrants to the field to gain a perspective that will be of continuous help in their future careers. This programme is also available as a 2-year part-time course.

The taught element consists of 180 credits. You will study 120 credits of taught modules and also undertake a 60-credit research project. This project may be conducted at the University, but more frequently in recent years, we have arranged for projects to be undertaken within the industry, giving students an opportunity for direct interaction and enhancing their employment prospects.

Why study Physics and Technology of Nuclear Reactors Masters at Birmingham?

• Studentships are sponsored by the UK nuclear industry, providing excellent and effective entry routes into careers in this stimulating field for physicists, mathematicians, metallurgists and engineers
• Expand your horizons with visits to a variety of nuclear establishments throughout the academic year visits are made to a variety of nuclear establishments
• Spend one day at a training reactor where the reactor operators are trained

Modules

This course consists of 180 credits. You will study all of the core modules below which comprise 120 credits and undertake a 60-credit research project.

• General Nuclear Power Technology - 20 credits
• Nuclear Instrumentation, Radiation Protection, Reactor Systems and the Nuclear Fuel Cycle - 20 credits
• Radiation Transport, Materials Science and Reactor Control - 20 credits
• Reactor Engineering, Reactor Systems and Non-Destructive Evaluation - 20 credits
• Practical Skills for Reactor Physics A - 20 credits
• Practical Skills for Reactor Physics B - 20 credits
• Research Project – 60 credits (Covering project work and thesis)

Please note: The modules listed on the website for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

This programme is a response to the current skills shortage in this area and trains high-quality graduates for the nuclear industry. This is a growing sector and the demand for graduates will increase resulting in excellent potential or rewarding careers. The research element of the programme also equips our graduates to go on to further study for a PhD.

University Careers Network

Preparation for your career should be one of the first things you think about as you start university. Whether you have a clear idea of where your future aspirations lie or want to consider the broad range of opportunities available once you have a Birmingham degree, our Careers Network can help you achieve your goal.

Our unique careers guidance service is tailored to your academic subject area, offering a specialised team (in each of the five academic colleges) who can give you expert advice. Our team sources exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CVs and job applications will help give you the edge.