Nuclear engineering and technology combines essential elements of nuclear science and engineering.
Many are turning to alternate sources of energy as the prices of fossil fuels rise and their availability is on the decline. Nuclear energy is touted as the power of the future, with more than 100 nuclear power plants in the United States alone generating more than 30 percent of global nuclear electricity (as of August 2010). The demand is great, but trained nuclear researchers, scientists and engineers are low in supply. Nuclear engineering and technology, also called nuclear power engineering and automation, is a unique, interdisciplinary program that combines essential elements of engineering and nuclear science. It is offered as a degree program in many engineering universities and colleges that specialize in nuclear science and engineering. Its purpose is to train individuals to work and contribute at various levels of nuclear science in their home countries and overseas.
Areas
Nuclear engineering and technology is a broad discipline that combines various elements of nuclear science and engineering, including but not limited to: computerized tomography, neutron transport theory, nondestructive testing, mathematics, engineering thermodynamics, nuclear power engineering and environment, operation and control of nuclear power plants and safety elements of nuclear reactors.
Degrees
Colleges and universities offer bachelors, masters, doctorate and post doctorate degrees in nuclear engineering and technology. Specific degrees include Bachelor of Engineering in nuclear engineering and technology, Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering and Technology and Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering and Technology.
Careers
Individuals trained in nuclear engineering and technology find employment in various industries and sectors, including radiochemistry, nuclear chemistry, health physicists, computer science, mathematics and others. Key governmental areas, such as nuclear forensics, nuclear weapons complex, nuclear power industry, nuclear shipping, nuclear transportation, biological research and radiation laboratories routinely look to employ talented nuclear science and engineering professionals.
Importance
Nuclear engineering and technology aims to branch nuclear science and engineering by training researchers, engineers and scientists in the fundamental areas of both. It hopes to address the shortage of engineers, nuclear scientists and technicians in government agencies and research institutions responsible for safety, regulatory and emergency response operations. A specialized workforce trained in nuclear engineering and technology will also play key roles in radiation medicine, including X-ray facilities and tracer radioisotopes.
Future/Scope
According to Charles D. Ferguson in the book "Nuclear Energy: Balancing Benefits and Risks," it is estimated that the global demand for energy will double by 2030 and triple by 2050, with a majority of this demand stemming from the developing world. Furthermore, it is estimated that nuclear energy is expected to increase threefold of its current capacity by 2050 and will contribute approximately 20 percent of the global supply of electricity. This directly translates into more nuclear employment and research opportunities and tremendous growth potential for nuclear engineering and technology.
Tags: nuclear science, engineering technology, nuclear power, nuclear science engineering, science engineering, nuclear engineering technology, elements nuclear
