Nuclear Engineering Polytechnic University of Catalonia

Overview

At the master’s degree in Nuclear Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia students will gain thorough knowledge of the theoretical and practical aspects of nuclear engineering and of the technology associated with energy production by nuclear fission chain reaction.

Students will acquire a broad understanding of the entire chain of energy conversion of nuclear fuel into final energy and of the life cycle of facilities, from uranium mining and initial plant construction to spent fuel management and decommissioning. Students will become familiar with regulations and nuclear safety culture, develop a strategic view of the sector and acquire the ability to understand problems and make decisions.

Approximately half of the lectures of the master’s degree are taught by nuclear industry experts from companies, research centres and other universities. Work placement will allow students to work with experts who will share their knowledge and expertise.

Professional opportunities

In Europe, nuclear engineering graduates are in high demand, and not just because of the need to replace those who retire from employment at European nuclear power plants. Economic globalisation and the growing presence of European companies in a variety of projects have contributed considerably to the need for qualified staff within the sector. The increased demand for qualified staff that is foreseen is a cause for concern not only for Spanish companies but also for the Nuclear Safety Council, the Spanish regulatory body.

This master’s degree focuses on preparing students for positions of responsibility within the nuclear power sector and producing qualified graduates for employment in research and development, and even teaching, in this field. 

Competencies

Generic competencies

Generic competencies are the skills that graduates acquire regardless of the specific course or field of study. The generic competencies established by the UPC are capacity for innovation and entrepreneurship, sustainability and social commitment, knowledge of a foreign language (preferably English), teamwork and proper use of information resources.

Specific competencies

• Have acquired a thorough understanding of the theoretical and practical fundamentals of nuclear engineering and technology for producing energy from nuclear fission.
• Have a clear, comprehensive view of the entire chain of energy conversion of nuclear fuel, from uranium mining to spent nuclear fuel management.
• Be familiar with the life cycle of facilities, from the construction to the decommissioning of a nuclear plant.
• Have a deep understanding of nuclear regulations and safety.
• Have developed a strategic view of the sector and the ability to understand problems and make decisions.