About Us - SPCEET

Learn About the Center for Nuclear Studies

The Nuclear Engineering program at Kennesaw State provides students with a unique opportunity to enhance their engineering education and career prospects. Tailored to meet the growing needs of the nuclear industry, the Center for Nuclear Studies and Nuclear minor program combines rigorous academic training with practical insights into nuclear energy, reactor operations, and radiation safety.

Explore how our center complements the engineering degrees at KSU, assists students to open doors for rewarding careers, and prepares graduates to excel in various fields both within and beyond the nuclear industry. Learn more about our program, experienced faculty members, and future career opportunities!

KSU SPCEET student working on a nuclear project

Nuclear Engineering Program at KSU

Two students sitting in a lab setting, smiling at the camera; one holds an orange tool, and the other holds a yellow glass dish, with a colorful hexagonal pattern displayed on a screen in the background.

The minor degree in Nuclear Engineering at KSU is designed to respond to the critical needs of the nuclear industry for technical workforce. The program is also structured to expand and enhance the options and opportunities for our students.

A minor in nuclear engineering not only benefits those looking for a career in the nuclear industry, but also provides a competitive edge for those who pursue opportunities outside the nuclear industry. Employers typically recognize the critical mission of the nuclear industry and value the discipline that accompanies this particular branch of engineering. Our nuclear program graduates are recognized not only for a degree in mechanical, electrical, systems, mechatronics, or civil engineering as their program major, but also for their rigor, smarts and dedication in complementing their normal course of study with a minor in nuclear engineering. For those graduates who pursue careers in the nuclear industry, they deliver the education and training of two engineering disciplines. For those who seek employment outside the nuclear industry, a minor in nuclear engineering allows them to punch above their major degree’s weight and standout among their peers.

Our graduates with a minor in nuclear engineering have started rewarding careers in the fields of nuclear power generation, R&D at national labs, medical imaging and nuclear medicine, architectural engineering, consulting, and training among others. For those who chose to pursue non-nuclear careers, most have received outstanding opportunities partly due to the additional value of their “two-in-one” educational package. Employers are also interested in extending our students exceptional internships and co-ops opportunities both inside and outside of the nuclear industry. Read on and learn more about how a minor degree in nuclear engineering can serve as a major power booster for your engineering degree.

A pathway to careers in the Nuclear Industry

Nuclear technology continues to play an important role across several industries including electric power, medicine, food, defense, research, and manufacturing. Currently, about 20% of U.S. electricity is supplied by nuclear power and a sizeable percentage of all medical procedures involve some form of nuclear medicine practice. Important considerations such as increased projected demand for electricity, sustainable economic development, global warming, and vulnerability to foreign sourcing are among the factors that have resulted in a revival of interest in the nuclear power industry. In response to this renewed level of interest and in order to address the industry’s concern for the shortage of skilled technical workers, the Center for Nuclear Studies at Kennesaw State University, offers an academic degree-based course of studies.

The academic program is offered through the Department of Mechanical Engineering and leads to a minor degree in Nuclear Engineering. This program is open to all undergraduate students in the School of Engineering, qualified students in the School of Engineering Technology, the School of Arts and Sciences, and qualified graduate students.

Nuclear power is the most prominent and visible sector of the nuclear industry. Electricity produced from nuclear reactors has proven to be one of the safest, cleanest, and most sustainable forms of base-load energy capable of meeting the electrical demands of the public. The Southeast region has particularly benefited from this reliable source of energy. Consequently, two of the next generation of nuclear plants are slated to be built in this area. In 2012, two new nuclear plants received their combined construction and operating licenses for the first time in nearly 30 years. These plants are being constructed in Georgia. In addition to these approved applications, several applications are also under review by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). The majority of these plants are slated to be constructed in the southern United States. Once underway, these projects will create a substantial demand for high-paying technical and professional positions.

KSU is committed to supporting the growth of the nuclear industry by offering academic courses in nuclear engineering. These courses are designed to provide the students with the knowledge and the skills that are needed to address the industry's challenging issues. Students enrolled in the academic engineering program will have the opportunity to become prepared for an exciting and rewarding career in the nuclear industry. For further information about these offerings, please visit the corresponding sections of the website.

Minor in Nuclear Engineering

The Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology offers a number of courses leading to a Minor in Nuclear Engineering. The program is offered through the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The purpose of the program is to educate the participating students in the fundamentals of nuclear engineering, nuclear energy conversion, reactor operation, and radiation detection & protection. Graduates can seek career opportunities in the nuclear industry or pursue a graduate degree in Nuclear Engineering.

Minor in Nuclear Engineering