ENRG 435 - Science of Nuclear Energy

This course will introduce students to the physical principles; engineering foundations; and the context of nuclear energy in the broader energy resource landscape. The course will begin with the fundamentals of nuclear structure, radioactivity, and fission reactions and will scale up to examine how nuclear power plants generate electricity and provide baseline load. Students will evaluate nuclear fission energy in comparison with other low-carbon energy resources and will explore the feasibility and challenges of advanced fission and fusion concepts, as well as analyze issues surrounding nuclear safety; waste management; proliferation; and public acceptance. The course will emphasize quantitative reasoning, energy systems thinking, and evidence-based discussion of nuclear energy’s role in future decarbonization of the energy grid.

Prerequisites & Notes: ENRG 320 or ESCI 320
Credits: 4
Grade Mode: Letter