Find out about the Nuclear Uniform Curriculum Program and see links to U.S. universities and community colleges that offer programs in nuclear technologies. Search for educational programs in nuclear technologies by region of the country.
Where to Obtain Education in Nuclear Technologies
Nearly all careers in the nuclear industry require a high school diploma or GED (minimum). Many positions provide extensive company-sponsored on-the-job training, as well as formal classroom and laboratory training. However, associate degrees and bachelor of science or advanced degrees are needed for some jobs, especially in engineering, chemistry and operations.
In addition, many jobs in the nuclear industry require background checks and drug and alcohol screening as part of the industry’s fitness-for-duty program. This program is designed to ensure that employees can enjoy a safe and secure workplace, free from the adverse effects of drugs and alcohol. This is necessary to ensure that there are no distractions from the primary goals of personnel and plant safety.
What is the Nuclear Uniform Curriculum Program?
The Nuclear Uniform Curriculum Program is an industry strategy to ensure the right people are in the right places at the right times. By organizing industry partnerships with two-year education programs it leverages resources to provide the next generation of highly skilled workers.
Military
U.S. military personnel are a targeted population to fill entry-level and mid-career engineering, technician, operator and security positions. Veterans from all branches of the U.S. military should consider applying for vacancies. The industry is especially interested in graduates of the U.S. Navy’s nuclear propulsion program since the nuclear fundamentals and components education graduates receive is directly applicable to careers at nuclear power plants. More information can be found at the
Navy Agreement of Understanding Program and the
Center for Energy Workforce Development’s Troops to Energy Program.
Educational Institutions
Labor Apprenticeships: Six labor apprenticeship programs are aligned to the nuclear energy industry’s required initial training program. These six programs are under the Nuclear Mechanic Apprenticeship Program.
Military: All veterans are desired by the industry, but the Navy’s Nuclear Propulsion graduates have additional knowledge and skills that are highly desirable to the nuclear energy industry.
Universities and Colleges: All types of engineers are hired by the nuclear energy industry. The industry prefers engineering graduates from ABET accredited programs. Below is a list of colleges and universities by region.
Northeast