This program provides each student with a broad foundation in nuclear technology and engineering at the graduate level. The unique combination of coursework and laboratory practice provides the student with experience working in the fields of proliferation of nuclear weapons, nuclear detection, nuclear weapon effects, the nuclear fuel cycle, and nuclear power.

This program is normally six quarters in length. Five quarters are devoted to coursework, and one is devoted to thesis research. The research is normally conducted at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT). The first quarter is focused on neutron transport, fuels, and reactors, to provide a strong foundational basis for the subsequent core and applications courses. The following two quarters build on the first, providing deeper meaning and practice to the concepts. The fourth quarter includes advanced labs, designed to establish the skills needed to conduct research. The fifth quarter is devoted to independent thesis research. In the final quarter, the thesis is defended and revised, as necessary, while final coursework expands the program elements into present day analyses of problems students may face after graduation.

The Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and technology (ABET) also accredits certain engineering programs. The nuclear engineering program is ABET accredited at the MS level. ABET accreditation demonstrates our continuing commitment to the quality of our program—both now and in the future.