University of Michigan

What you'll study

The programme offers both thesis and non-thesis master's pathways and combines core theory with applied laboratory and computational work. Typical subject areas include reactor physics and kinetics, neutron and photon transport theory, thermal hydraulics, nuclear materials and radiation effects, radiation detection and measurements, nuclear instrumentation, radiation protection and shielding, and nuclear fuel cycle engineering. Students also take advanced mathematics and computational courses such as numerical methods for partial differential equations, Monte Carlo methods for radiation transport, and multiphysics modelling.

Teaching formats include lectures, problem-solving seminars, laboratory classes and supervised research. Students in the thesis track undertake an original research project under a faculty adviser, while non-thesis students typically complete a technical report or additional coursework. Electives allow specialisation in topics such as fusion science, plasma physics, computational reactor analysis, medical and industrial applications of radiation, and nuclear materials behaviour under irradiation.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, physics, or a closely related quantitative discipline with strong preparation in calculus, differential equations, and basic thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.
• Transcripts: Official academic transcripts demonstrating strong performance in relevant undergraduate coursework.
• References: Two or three letters of recommendation from academic instructors or professional supervisors who can attest to the applicant’s technical skills and potential for graduate study.
• Statement of purpose: A personal statement outlining research interests, career goals and reasons for choosing the programme and specific faculty or labs.
• English language proficiency: For applicants whose first language is not English, an approved English language test score is normally required (acceptable tests and score expectations are set by the university).
• Additional material: Depending on the applicant’s background, evidence of programming experience, prior research, or a résumé/CV may strengthen an application. The programme may consider applicants with non-traditional backgrounds if prerequisite coursework is satisfied.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of technical and research roles. Common career paths include positions with nuclear power utilities and plant vendors (reactor analysis, safety and licensing, operations support), employment at national and federal laboratories in areas such as reactor technology, materials research and radiation detection, roles in regulatory and oversight bodies, and work in industrial radiography, radiation shielding design and nuclear decommissioning.

Other graduates find opportunities in medical and health physics (radiation therapy technology and protection), nuclear fuel cycle companies, fusion research programmes, energy policy and consultancy, and in high-performance computing and modelling groups for multiphysics simulation. The programme’s research components and industry links also prepare students for PhD study and careers in academic research.

Why study at University of Michigan

The Department of Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences is embedded in a major research university with strong interdisciplinary collaborations across materials science, mechanical engineering, physics and health sciences. Students have access to specialised experimental facilities and computing resources and can work with faculty active in fission and fusion research, radiation detection and instrumentation, and nuclear materials.

The Ann Arbor campus offers a research-intensive environment with connections to national laboratories and industry partners that support internships and applied projects. University career services, engineering employer networks and an active alumni base provide additional support for professional development and job placement after graduation.