Course summary
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 industry, giving students an opportunity for direct interaction and enhancing their employment prospects.
Modules
Nuclear Instrumentation, Radiation Dosimetry and Protection – 20 credits – Covering Particle Detectors, Neutron Radiation Physics, Nuclear Electronics, Radiation Dosimetry, Radiological Protection and Radiation Shielding; Radiation Transport, Thermal Hydraulics and Reactor Engineering – 20 credits – Covering Radiation and Charged Particle Transport, Thermal Hydraulics and Reactor Engineering, Fusion, Statistics, Reactor Physics and Reactor Kinetics ; Reactor Materials, Reactor Systems and NDE – 20 credits – Covering Metallurgy, Reactor Systems and Safety Analysis, Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Non-Destructive Testing, Reactor Control and Radio Chemistry; General Paper – 20 credits – Covering Environmental Implications of Nuclear Power, Reactor Materials, Financial Appraisal, Decommissioning and Industrial Lecture Series; Practical Skills – 40 credits – Covering Physics Laboratory, Physics Metallurgy Laboratory, Computing and Numerical Analysis, Reactor Safety Exercise, Seminars and Presentations; Research Project – 60 credits– Covering project work and thesis
Assessment method
Project work and thesis.
How to apply
International applicants
English language requirements may apply for international students
This course has a subject classification which requires students whose nationality is outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland to have an ATAS certificate, irrespective of country of residence at the point of application.
Further information can be found on the UK Government's website: www.gov.uk/academic-technology-approval-scheme
Entry requirements
A 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject (eg, Physics, Engineering, Mathematics or any Physical Science subject). 2.2 degrees may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on modules taken and interview performance etc. English language requirements may apply for international students.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Sponsorship information
Industry.
Provider information
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT