Massachusetts Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The undergraduate programme in Nuclear Science and Engineering (Course 22) combines rigorous fundamentals in mathematics, physics and engineering with specialised courses in nuclear topics. Core subjects typically include reactor physics and dynamics, radiation interactions and shielding, neutron transport, nuclear materials and radiation effects, thermal hydraulics, and nuclear reactor systems. Students also study supporting subjects such as quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, electromagnetism, fluid dynamics and heat transfer, and numerical methods.

• Introductory and advanced mathematics and physics courses that underpin nuclear engineering analyses
• Reactor physics, neutron transport theory and computational methods for nuclear systems
• Radiation detection and measurement, radiological protection and dosimetry
• Nuclear materials science, including radiation damage and material performance
• Thermal-hydraulics of reactors, reactor design and safety analysis
• Laboratory classes and hands-on experiments in measurement, instrumentation and reactor operation
• Capstone research project or thesis, often supervised by faculty and linked to active research groups

Undergraduates are encouraged to pursue UROP (Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program) placements with faculty-led research groups, the MIT Nuclear Reactor Laboratory, and the Plasma Science and Fusion Center, enabling practical experience in experimental, computational and policy-oriented work. Electives allow students to explore fusion science, medical applications of radiation, nuclear policy and energy systems, or computational and data-driven approaches.

Entry requirements

Admission to MIT is highly selective and based on academic excellence, intellectual curiosity and extracurricular achievement. Successful applicants typically present strong preparation in mathematics (calculus) and physics, and often additional preparation in chemistry and computer science. Advanced-level qualifications (such as A-levels, IB higher-level subjects, AP exams or equivalent) with high grades in STEM subjects demonstrate readiness for the programme.

• Strong performance in mathematics (calculus) and physics is essential
• Preparation in chemistry and computer programming is advantageous
• Evidence of analytical problem-solving, research potential or relevant practical experience strengthens an application
• Admissions at MIT are holistic: academic records, recommendations, personal statements and demonstrated passion for STEM all matter

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Nuclear Science and Engineering pursue careers across energy, national security, medicine and research. Typical destinations include:

• Power utilities and reactor design firms (nuclear power plant design, operations and safety)
• National laboratories and government research organisations engaged in nuclear technology, waste management and non-proliferation
• Fusion research programmes and private fusion companies working on plasma science and fusion reactor concepts
• Medical physics and radiological technology sectors, including diagnostics, therapy and radiation instrumentation
• Aerospace and defence organisations, and industries needing radiation-hardened electronics or materials expertise
• Consulting, regulatory bodies, and policy roles where technical knowledge informs regulation and public engagement
• Graduate study and academic research leading to master's and doctoral programmes

Why study at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT's Nuclear Science and Engineering programme is embedded in a research-intensive environment with direct access to distinctive facilities and faculty expertise. Undergraduates benefit from hands-on opportunities at the MIT Nuclear Reactor Laboratory and the Plasma Science and Fusion Center, strong ties with national laboratories and industry partners, and an established UROP programme that places students in active research from early in their studies.

The department emphasises a blend of theoretical, computational and experimental training, with interdisciplinary links to materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and policy studies. MIT's collaborative culture, entrepreneurial ecosystem and global industry connections help graduates move into technical roles, research careers or further professional study while providing exposure to current challenges in energy, fusion and radiological applications.