Program Overview

Program Overview

The Nuclear Decommissioning and Waste Management MSc / PGDip program at the University of Birmingham is designed to prepare students for a career in the nuclear industry. The program focuses on developing the scientific understanding and practical skills necessary to address challenges in nuclear decommissioning, waste management, and remediation.

Course Highlights

• Ranked 6th in the UK for Physics by the Complete University Guide 2026
• Birmingham is ranked 76th in the QS World University Rankings 2026
• The program blends foundational knowledge and practical skills, taught by world-leading academic staff
• Students benefit from the University's extensive links into industry and regulators, both in the UK and internationally
• The course teaches a broad range of topics, with the opportunity to specialize in a chosen area of interest with a research project

Course Delivery

• Learning is via lectures and practical sessions, supported by field trips and industry seminars
• The program includes:
  • Engaging lectures that demonstrate how experts approach problems in the field
  • Tutorials and seminars that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning
  • Projects and practical assignments that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications
  • 1:1 supervision in a supportive environment
  • Laboratory work to develop critical technical and analytical skills

Module Information

• Students complete 180 credits, with 120 credits assessed through core taught modules and 60 credits awarded following the successful completion of a research project
• Core modules include:
  • Independent Research Project in Nuclear Decommissioning and Waste Management (60 credits)
  • Nuclear Radiation, Dosimetry and Shielding, and the Nuclear Fuel Cycle (20 credits)
  • Policy, Regulation & Management (20 credits)
  • Practical & Applied Studies B (20 credits)
  • Processing, Storage & Disposal of Nuclear Waste (20 credits)
  • Site Decommissioning & Environmental Management (20 credits)
  • Practical & Applied Studies A (20 credits)

Teaching Staff

• The program is led by Professor Paul Norman, with a team of world-leading academic staff from different Schools within the University

Entry Requirements

• A 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject (e.g., physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, mathematics, geoscience, or any physical sciences subject)
• 2.2 degrees may be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on modules taken
• English language requirements:
  • IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band
  • TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 Listening, 21 Speaking, and 19 in Writing
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills
  • Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component
  • LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 25 in each skill

Fees and Scholarships

• Tuition fees:
  • £11,250 (full-time)
  • £5,625 (part-time)
• The University offers a range of scholarships, including the Birmingham Masters Scholarship, which awards £3,000 to more than 300 students each year
• Postgraduate Masters loan available to all UK students

Application Process

• Application deadline for UK and non-visa requiring applicants: 28 August 2026
• Applications will close as soon as the program is full, and early applications are encouraged

Career Opportunities

• Graduates are in high demand due to the significant shortage of skilled graduates in nuclear decommissioning and waste management
• The program lays a strong foundation for pursuing further postgraduate study towards a PhD
• Alumni have gone on to work for leading employers, including Nuclear Waste Services, Nükleer Düzenleme Kurumu, Rolls-Royce, Balfour Beatty, and Turkish Energy

Related Courses

• Physics and Technology of Nuclear Reactors MSc

Student Experience

• The University of Birmingham offers a range of accommodation options, a vibrant campus life, and excellent facilities
• Students have access to a variety of activities, support services, and advice to help them get the most out of their university experience
• The University is committed to providing the best possible support to all students, ensuring they can achieve their full potential.