MSc Nuclear Science and Technology / Course details

Year of entry: 2024

Course description

There is a substantial continuing need for specialist engineers to service the nuclear industry for the operation and decommissioning of the existing reactors, and a growing worldwide programme of building new reactors. Against this background, The University of Manchester is offering a postgraduate programme in Nuclear Science & Technology to help supply the industry with expertise level to help fill the predicted skills gap.

For more information please visit the NTEC website

Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES)

Launched in 2009, the HEA's annual PTES is the only sector-wide survey to gain insight from taught postgraduate students about their learning and teaching experience.

The survey focuses on students' experiences regarding

  • Teaching and learning
  • Engagement
  • Assessment and Feedback
  • Organisation and Management
  • Resources and Services
  • Skills Development

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is proud that 96% of students on the MSc in Nuclear Science and Technology are satisfied overall with the course.

Coursework and assessment

Assessment is by written examination, assignment and end of year project/dissertation.

Course unit details

This modular programme is available on either a full-time or part-time basis. The mode of study can be either direct taught, distance learning, or a combination of both.

It addresses a broad range of disciplines in Nuclear Science & Technology it is particularly concerned with ongoing liabilities and the nuclear legacy and is designed to assist companies and individuals in meeting the challenge of this important industry.

The part-time programme option offers the opportunity for employees to gain a postgraduate qualification whilst remaining in full-time employment.

Part-time MSc taken over 3 years:

  • Year 1:  4 modules (Successful completion attains Postgraduate Certificate)
  • Year 2:  4 modules (Successful completion attains Postgraduate Diploma)
  • Year 3:  Project & Dissertation (Successful completion attains MSc)

Part-time MSc taken over 2 years:

  • 8 modules are taken over the two year period with the project and dissertation also being completed in the second year.

Full-time MSc taken over 1 year:

  • 8 modules are taken over a period of approximately 9 months. The project and dissertation then follows.

Course unit list

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Processing, Storage and Disposal of Nuclear Waste PHYS65060 15 Optional
Particle Engineering in the Nuclear Industry PHYS65070 15 Optional
Severe Accidents PHYS65280 15 Optional

Scholarships and bursaries

For more information about these scholarships please visit the Fees and Funding page on the Department website for more information on other scholarships and awards available.

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk