Nuclear engineering

The Master of Engineering in nuclear engineering prepares students to advance nuclear energy technologies through advanced technical education and research experience. Nuclear energy is a leading source of emissions-free electricity in North America, with applications in electricity generation, hydrogen production, industry, medicine, and national security.

The growing demand for nuclear technologies has created a need for qualified nuclear engineers and scientists who can design, improve, and manage next-generation systems. This program equips students with the expertise needed for careers in industry and government, including roles such as nuclear safety engineer, reactor engineer, and nuclear design engineer.

The curriculum combines advanced graduate coursework with a professionally focused engineering experience that prepares you to solve complex nuclear engineering challenges. You'll strengthen your ability to apply advanced mathematics, science and engineering principles through multidisciplinary problem-solving while learning to evaluate existing research, communicate technical information effectively and carry engineering projects from concept through design and implementation. Throughout the program, you'll develop a strong understanding of safety, environmental stewardship and the societal impacts of nuclear technologies while preparing for technical leadership in the nuclear industry.

Students can specialize in areas including nuclear fuel processing, nuclear materials, radioactive waste treatment and management, thermal behavior and measurement, nuclear systems design and modeling, and applications of nuclear process heat.

Accelerated 4+1 Master of Engineering

The Accelerated 4+1 Master of Engineering (M.Engr.) program allows University of Idaho undergraduate students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in an accelerated timeframe. Eligible students can complete the M.Engr. degree in one additional year while paying in-state undergraduate tuition rates.

Students must apply to the accelerated program before completing their undergraduate degree and meet application deadlines established by the College of Graduate Studies. Students who have completed credits beyond undergraduate degree requirements may be eligible to apply approved credits toward their graduate degree requirements. The 4+1 pathway provides a streamlined opportunity for students to advance their expertise and prepare for professional career opportunities.

This program could be a good fit if you:

• Want to build advanced expertise in nuclear engineering through a non-thesis master’s program focused on professional development and practical application.
• Have an engineering or technical background and want to expand your knowledge of nuclear systems, reactor technologies, and emerging nuclear applications.
• Are interested in advancing your career in nuclear power, energy production, nuclear safety, engineering design, industry, or government.
• Want to develop technical skills through advanced coursework and applied learning experiences that address real-world nuclear engineering challenges.
• Are motivated to apply nuclear technologies to areas such as electricity generation, hydrogen production, medicine, industry, and national security.