You can do a degree in a subject like:

• nuclear engineering
• chemical engineering
• mechanical engineering
• maths
• physics with nuclear technology
• materials and nuclear engineering

You can find universities offering nuclear related courses through the Nuclear Institute.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

You may be able to apply for a place on an apprenticeship, such as:

• Nuclear Scientist and Nuclear Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
• Nuclear Reactor Desk Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship

These take around 3 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

You can start on a 2-year graduate training scheme called Nuclear Graduates, which is run by nuclear industry employers. 

On the scheme, you'll receive professional development training in different areas of the nuclear industry.

You'll normally need a degree in a science or engineering subject to apply for a place.

You'll need:

• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• maths knowledge
• knowledge of physics
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• thinking and reasoning skills
• design skills and knowledge
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

You'll need to:

• pass security checks

As a nuclear engineer, you might:

• design and build new nuclear plants and equipment
• monitor radiation levels
• plan and carry out maintenance work
• help to decommission old power stations
• research ways to dispose of nuclear waste
• design medical equipment that uses nuclear technology
• work on nuclear propulsions systems for ships and submarines

We've identified this as a potential green job

For a nuclear engineer to be a green job, you could:

• build power plants to help reduce greenhouse gasses
• design energy efficient medical scanners and imaging equipment
• work on research into nuclear fusion that has the potential to produce large amounts of cleaner energy

Find out more about green careers

You could work at a power station, in a laboratory, in an office or in a control room.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.