How to ApplyRequest Info
How to ApplyRequest Info
nuclear engineer sitting in front of control panels

Master of Engineering inNuclear Engineering – Nuclear Security Option

Summary Courses Careers Costs and Aid

The Master of Nuclear Engineering – Nuclear Security Option degree is a 30-credit online program designed to prepare students to become the next generation of technical experts in global nuclear and radiological security. The program aims to develop the skills necessary to detect special nuclear materials attempting to enter the country and to safeguard U.S. nuclear facilities from potential attacks.

Apply by July 15 to start August 24

30 Credits$1,154 per credit

Nationally Recognized

US News and World Report graduate engineering
Our graduate engineering programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

Gain Skills to Strengthen Security for Nuclear Facilities Worldwide

  • Develop the ability to conduct comprehensive threat assessments for non-state actors targeting nuclear and radiological facilities, enhancing skills in identifying and articulating security threats and policy responses.

  • Gain proficiency in designing and evaluating security systems that deter, detect, and respond to threats against nuclear materials, incorporating diverse defense strategies and technologies.

  • Acquire knowledge of nuclear weapons proliferation dynamics, including motivations and deterrents, and apply this understanding to craft effective security policies.

  • Learn the theory and practical application of advanced radiation detection systems and sensors, enabling hands-on experience with technologies essential for nuclear security operations.

The 30-credit Master of Engineering in Nuclear Engineering – Nuclear Security Option combines the technical, societal, and policy aspects of nuclear security and safety. Students in the program will gain experience with state-of-the-art technologies and be trained in nuclear threat assessment and analysis, global nuclear security policies, and nuclear security system designs.

You will take 12 credits in the program's core courses and 15 credits specific to the Nuclear Security option. You will then complete your studies with the 3-credit culminating capstone experience. 

Required Nuclear Engineering Security Option Courses (15 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    This course aims to educate students so they can conduct a threat assessment and analysis for non-state actors (i.e., terrorist and criminal organizations) and the threat which they present to nuclear and radiological facilities and supply lines.

  • 3
    credits

    The primary goal of this course is to educate students to think with a security perspective so they can design and evaluate systems to deter, detect, interdict, and respond to threats to the security of nuclear and radiological materials.

  • 3
    credits

    Theory and technology behind detectors, sensors, and source technologies including portal monitors and field deployable detection systems.

  • 3
    credits

    Hands-on experience with the radiation detection systems, sensors, devices, and source technologies for nuclear security applications.

  • 3
    credits

    This course reviews the historical development and examines the current state of American and international policies and laws related to global nuclear security.

Core Courses (select 12 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Theory of radioactive decay processes, nuclear properties and structure, nuclear reactions, interactions of radiation with matter, biological effects of radiation.

    • Prerequisite

      CHEM 452 or PHYS 237 or NUCE 301

  • 3
    credits

    Statistical description of systems composed of large numbers of particles in the context of classical and quantum mechanics; basic concepts of probability theory and thermodynamics as they relate to statistical mechanics.

    • Prerequisite

      ME 300 or ME 201 or ME 202 or MATH 231 or CH E 303 or MATH 230

  • 3
    credits

    Nuclear reactor materials: relationship between changes in material properties and microstructural evolution of nuclear cladding and fuel under irradiation.

    • Prerequisite

      PHYS 214

  • 3
    credits

    Ionizing radiation, biological effects, radiation measurement, dose computational techniques, local and federal regulations, exposure control.

    • Prerequisite

      NUCE 301 or NUCE 405

  • 3
    credits

    Nature, sources, and control of radioactive wastes; theory and practice of disposal processes.

    • Prerequisite

      NUCE 301 or NUCE 405

  • 3
    credits

    Nuclear power cycles; heat removal problems; kinetic behavior of nuclear systems; material and structural design problems.

    • Prerequisite

      ME 410 and NUCE 301 or NUCE 401

  • 3
    credits

    Basic knowledge necessary for intelligent simulation and interpretation of simulations of transients in nuclear power plants.

    • Prerequisite

      ME 320 and MATH 251 and NUCE 302

  • 3
    credits

    This course is designed as an intensive course providing an introduction to nuclear engineering for graduate students with a non-nuclear background.

    • Prerequisite

      MATH 251 and Grad Standing

    • Concurrent Enrollment

      (MATH 230 or MATH 232) and PHYS 214

  • 1
    credit

    Laboratory experience in radiation detection and measurement.

    • Note

      This course is required for students who do not have a baccalaureate degree in nuclear engineering and have not fulfilled an equivalent course requirement. Students who do not have an undergraduate degree in nuclear engineering should consult with the Department of Nuclear Engineering to determine if they need to complete this course.

  • 3
    credits

    Thermal hydraulic fundamentals applied to power reactors, thermal analysis of fuel elements, and two-phase heat transfer in heated channels.

    • Prerequisite

      NUCE 430

  • 3
    credits

    In-depth analysis of the reactor core thermal hydraulics; computational methods and practical applications.

    • Prerequisite

      NUCE 430

  • 3
    credits

    Analytical kinetics and dynamics modeling for reactivity-induced transients; reactor accident kinetics methods for simple and complex geometries; experimental methods.

    • Prerequisite

      NUCE 301 and NUCE 302

  • 3
    credits

    Nuclear fuel inventory determination and economic value through the fuel cycle. Emphasis on calculational techniques in reactor, optimization, and design.

    • Prerequisite

      NUCE 302

  • 3
    credits

    Derivation of Boltzmann equation for neutron transport; techniques of approximate and exact solution for the monoenergetic and spectrum regenerating cases.

    • Prerequisite

      NUCE 403 or PHYS 406

    • 3
      credits

      Degradation of materials performance when exposed to the combination of high temperature, neutron irradiation, and aggressive electrochemistry found in nuclear reactors.

      • Prerequisite

        NUCE 409

    • 3
      credits

      Degradation of materials performance when exposed to the combination of high temperature, neutron irradiation, and aggressive electrochemistry found in nuclear reactors.

      • Prerequisite

        NUCE 409

  • 3
    credits

    Fundamentals of the probability theory and statistics, analog and non-analog Monte Carlo methods and their applications, random processes, and numbers.

    • Prerequisite

      NUCE 403 or PHYS 406

  • 3
    credits

    Concepts and techniques of analyses useful in evaluating engineering projects under deterministic and uncertain conditions.

  • 3
    credits

    Thermal energy transfer mechanisms: conduction (steady, transient), convection (internal, external), radiation; lumped parameter method; heat exchangers; introduction to numerical methods.

    • Prerequisite

      (AERSP 308 and AERSP 311 and CE 360) or (ME 320 and CMPSC 200) or (CMPSC 202 and MATH 220) or (NUCE 309 and MATH 251)

  • 3
    credits

    Computer modeling and fundamental analysis of solid, fluid, and heat flow problems using existing computer codes.

  • 3
    credits

    Laminar and turbulent flow heat transfer in natural and forced convection systems.

  • 3
    credits

    Second semester of core sequence in fluid mechanics; continuation of boundary layers, stability, transition, turbulence, turbulent boundary layers, turbulence models.

    • Prerequisite

      ME 421, ME 521

  • 3
    credits

    Application of finite difference methods to the study of potential and viscous flows and conduction and convection heat transfer.

  • 3
    credits

    Introduces computational fundamentals, including digital logic; programming language, basic numerical analysis and data processing, as applied to mechanical simulation techniques.

Culminating Experience (3 credits)

  • 3
    credits

    Creative projects, including nonthesis research, which are supervised on an individual basis and which fall outside the scope of formal courses.

Course Availability

If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.

Two engineers review blueprints and working at a computer

Nuclear engineers can work for development laboratories, national laboratories, electrical utility companies, colleges and universities, nuclear power plants, engineering design firms, factories that make nuclear equipment, and private and federal governmental research, energy, and defense agencies.

Job Titles Related to This Degree

The following roles are often held by people with this type of degree:

  • Nuclear Design Engineer
  • Nuclear Engineer
  • Nuclear Reactor Engineer
  • Nuclear Safety Engineer

Employment Outlook for Occupational Fields Related to This Degree

Estimates of employment growth and total employment are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and are subject to change. While these occupations are often pursued by graduates with this degree, individual outcomes may vary depending on a variety of factors. Penn State World Campus cannot guarantee employment in a given occupation.

Architectural and engineering managers

3.8%
employment growth (10 years)
220,260
total employment

Nuclear Engineers

-1.1%
employment growth (10 years)
15,280
total employment

Career Services to Set You Up for Success

Student having a virtual meeting on a laptop with a career counselor

From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.

  • Opportunities to connect with employers
  • Career counselor/coach support
  • Occupation and salary information
  • Internships
  • Graduate school resources 

Ready to Learn More?

Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.

required
1 of 3

I agree to be contacted via phone, email, and text by Penn State World Campus and affiliates. I understand my information may also be shared with select providers to offer ads that may be of interest to me.Privacy Policy. reCAPTCHA protected. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Learn more about this program

Download Program Brochure All my programs

Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State master's degree?

Apply by July 15 to start August 24. How to Apply 

Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.

Graduate Tuition

Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.

2025–26 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2025, spring 2026, and summer 2026 semesters.
How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,154 per credit
12 or more$13,860 per semester

2026–27 Academic Year Rates

Tuition rates for the fall 2026, spring 2027, and summer 2027 semesters.
How many credits do you plan to take per semester?Cost
11 or fewer$1,166 per credit
12 or more$13,999 per semester

Financial Aid and Military Benefits

Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Federal financial aid may only be used to pay for credits used to satisfy program requirements.

Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.

Additional Cost of Attendance Details

To view the detailed list of cost of attendance elements:

Technical Requirements

Review the technical requirements for this program.

Who Should Apply?

If you have a bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline or the applied sciences, you can prepare for career advancement with the Master of Engineering in Nuclear Engineering – Nuclear Security Option.

Adult student doing course work online while a child plays nearby

Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. Many students take one or two courses per semester.

Our online courses typically follow a 12- to 15-week semester cycle, and there are three semesters per year (spring, summer, and fall). If you plan to take a heavy course load, you should expect your course work to be your primary focus and discuss your schedule with your academic adviser. 

To Finish Your Degree in One to Two Years

  • Take 3–4 courses each semester

To Finish Your Degree in Two to Three Years

  • Take 2–3 courses each semester 

To Finish Your Degree in Three to Four Years

  • Take 1 course each semester

Timelines may vary based on course availability.

Convenient Online Format

This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.

A Trusted Leader in Online Education

Penn State students wearing caps and gowns at their commencement ceremony

Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.

Information for Military and Veterans

Four sergeants major in the Army pose for a photo with Army uniforms and military honor cords

Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, and application instructions.

A new student holding a sign that reads, We Are Penn State and #PennStateBound

Apply by July 15 to start August 24

Application Instructions

Deadlines and Important Dates

Complete your application and submit all required materials by the appropriate deadline. Your deadline will depend on the semester you plan to start your courses.

  • Fall Deadline

    Apply by July 15 to start August 24

  • Spring Deadline

    Apply by October 15 to start January 11

  • Summer Deadline

    Apply by April 15, 2027, to start May 17, 2027

Steps to Apply

  1. For admission to the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School, an applicant must hold either (1) a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or (2) a tertiary (postsecondary) degree that is deemed comparable to a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution. This degree must be from an officially recognized degree-granting institution in the country in which it operates.

    It is expected that students will have a Bachelor of Science degree in a suitable engineering field. Admission decisions will also be based on relevant work experience and recommendation letters.

    The program contains a number of courses requiring a solid background in mathematics typically found in an undergraduate program in engineering, physics, chemistry, mathematics, or computer science, with at least two semesters of calculus. Students with other undergraduate majors who have a strong background in mathematics may apply. The admissions committee will consider the academic background, as evidenced by the transcript, as part of the overall application.

    If you do not have a baccalaureate degree in nuclear engineering and have not fulfilled an equivalent course requirement, you will need to complete NUCE 497: Radiation and Measurement Detection Lab as part of the program requirements. NUCE 497 (1 credit) includes a 3-day residential laboratory experience at University Park campus.

  2. You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:

    Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. Penn State alumni do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history. If you are admitted, you will be asked to send an additional official transcript. You will receive instructions at that time.

    Test Scores — GRE/GMAT scores are not required for admission. However, they will be reviewed if they are provided.

    English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.

    References (3) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering the names, email addresses, and mailing addresses of the three references. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to the recommenders requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform the recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.

    Program Specific Materials

    Résumé — Upload a one- to two-page résumé highlighting your full-time employment and/or military experience to the online application.

    Statement of Purpose — A one- to two-page statement of purpose outlining personal career goals and reasons for wanting to enroll in the program. This statement should be specific and include information about your short- and long-term goals and how enrolling in the program may help to achieve them. The statement of purpose also offers you the opportunity to demonstrate your writing and communication skills, specify examples of leadership, and provide pertinent information that will assist the committee in selecting candidates who can benefit from and contribute to the nuclear engineering program.

  3. To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.

    Create a New Penn State Account

    If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

    Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.

  4. You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.

    • Choose Enrollment Type: "Degree Admission"
    • Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus

    Checking Your Status 
    You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form. 

  5. 5. Complete the application.

    Penn State Fox Graduate School Application

Admissions Help

If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].

Customer service representative wearing a headset

Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.

To learn more about the Master of Engineering in Nuclear Engineering – Nuclear Security Option, please contact:

Ashley Ammerman
Graduate Program Coordinator
113 Hallowell Building
University Park, PA 16802
[email protected]

World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386

The Master of Engineering in Nuclear Engineering is offered in partnership with the Penn State College of Engineering.

Faculty

  • Amanda Johnsen

    • Ph.D., Nuclear Engineering, University of California, Berkeley 
    • B.S., Nuclear Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

    Dr. Amanda Johnsen is an assistant professor of nuclear engineering. She specializes in radiochemistry and has experience working with actinides, used nuclear fuel, medical isotopes, and neutron irradiations. Her research interests include separations for fission product yield measurements, medical isotope production and purification development, neutron activation analysis, and molten salt reactors.

  • Arthur T. Motta

    • B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro
    • M.S., Nuclear Engineering, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro
    • Ph.D, Nuclear Engineering, University of California, Berkeley

    Dr. Arthur Motta specializes in mechanisms of materials degradation when exposed to the nuclear reactor environment, including radiation damage, microstructural evolution, corrosion, and hydriding, for better prediction of materials behavior and development of new materials.

Additional Faculty

The faculty listed above regularly teach for the Penn State World Campus Master of Engineering in Nuclear Engineering program. View the complete Department of Nuclear Engineering Faculty directory.

two women wearing penn state clothing stand in front of a banner that says "Penn state proud"
A stone sign reading Pennsylvania State University

Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State master's degree?

Apply by July 15 to start August 24. How to Apply 

Explore Other Academic Programs

Nuclear EngineeringMaster of Engineering