Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering

Nuclear engineers develop and promote the utilization of energy released from nuclear fission, fusion, and the decay of radioisotopes. Nuclear engineers work in the areas of nuclear reactor design, plant licensing, plant operations, fuel management and development, radioactive waste disposal, health physics, instrumentation and control, fusion research, space nuclear power, weaponry systems, and applications of radioisotopes in industry, biotechnology, medicine and research. Currently, there are more than 100 nuclear power plants operating in the United States, producing over 20 percent of our nation’s electricity and using nuclear fission to produce this energy. This technology reduces emissions of carbon dioxide, the primary greenhouse gas, by about 20 percent each year. In addition, nuclear reactors are used for the propulsion of submarines and aircraft carriers. Radioisotopes are used in industry and research, and in medicine for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The medical use of radioisotopes and X-rays saves hundreds of thousands of lives every year throughout the world. Radioisotopes are also used in small power generators for space missions. All deep space missions use communication systems that are powered by Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs). Where do nuclear engineers work: Graduates work for electrical power companies, reactor manufacturers companies, architecture/construction companies, consulting firms, national research laboratories (like Argonne, Fermi Labs, Battelle, Los Alamos, and Oak Ridge), or for the federal government (with agencies like the CIA, DOD, DOE, EPA, FBI, or the Nuclear Regulatory Commission). Mission Statement The primary mission of the nuclear engineering program is to provide well-educated nuclear engineering professionals and leaders to Missouri and the nation in the commercial nuclear industry, national laboratories, graduate schools, and the nation’s defense and federal agencies. Educational Objectives Fundamental knowledge of nuclear engineering and related technologies. Our graduates will continue to demonstrate a sound fundamental knowledge of nuclear engineering and related technologies as members of their professional community. Analytical and problem solving ability. Our graduates will continue to use logical, creative, collaborative, analytical and problem solving abilities to address emerging multidisciplinary endeavors. Technical communication and interpersonal skills. Our graduates will continue to demonstrate technical communication and interpersonal skills, enabling them to excel in their profession. Leadership and professional ethics. Our graduates will continue to demonstrate leadership with an understanding of, and a commitment to, professional ethics. Capability to conduct research. Our graduates will continue to demonstrate the capability to conduct research enabling them to contribute to meeting the needs of their profession. Pursuit of life-long learning. Our graduates will continue to demonstrate a recognition of, and a desire for, the pursuit of lifelong learning that will foster their ability to adapt to change. Student Outcomes An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering. An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data. An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability. An ability to function on multidisciplinary teams. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems.