Nuclear Concentration
Nuclear Engineering Concentration for the BSME at LSU
Why is it being offered? The Nuclear Power generation sector is in the process of resuming growth over the next decade and anticipates a need for specialized engineering workforce. Nuclear Power has a strong presence in the AK-LA-MI corridor to provide good employment opportunities to appropriately qualified ME graduates regionally.
When will it be in place? It is expected to be formally in the books next Fall (2010).
When can one start taking courses towards the concentration? Effective next term (Spring 2010)
What courses are eligible for the concentration? The complete list is to be decided this semester but the following eligible courses will be offered in the spring (2010) for sure:
ME4933: Nuclear Power Plant Design (Dr. Charalampopoulos)
NS4527: Nuclear Reactor Theory and Design (Dr. Wesley Williams of Enercon – pending approval)
Are there any opportunities associated with this Concentration while still at School? Yes there are two opportunities:
a. Internship opportunities with the Nuclear Power Industry
b. Scholarships for which only students committing and taking courses towards the Nuclear Engineering Concentration are eligible (Details on amount and other qualifications will be announced later this semester).
Brief Overview of Nuclear Power Job Market
According to recent figures from the Nuclear Energy Institute the Nuclear Power Industry employs a broad variety of professionals (46% Mechanical, 20% Electrical Engineers, 10% Nuclear, 4% Civil/Construction Management, 3% Chemical, 1% Health Physics and Radiation Protection and 16% other). All the associated jobs are high-paying in the range of $65K-$90K at entry level. The hiring projections for the Nuclear Power Industry through 2013 according to the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) indicate a steady demand for 1,700 professionals per year with over 750 Mechanical Engs., 330 Electrical Engs., 70 Civil Engs./Constuction Management, 50 Chemical Engs. and 15 in Health Physics/ Rad. Protection needed per year. This bodes very well for LSU graduates with nuclear education considering the high concentration of Nuclear Plants, existing and planned, in the Southeast and Louisiana in particular.
