Program Overview

Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering

The Master of Science programme in Nuclear Engineering is based on the long tradition in teaching Nuclear Engineering at the University of Pisa, which started in 1960. The study matters cover all the important areas necessary for acquiring high-level competencies in the field, including Reactor Physics, Nuclear Reactor Thermal-Hydraulics, Structural Mechanics, Radiation Measurement and Health Effects, Nuclear Reactor Power Plant Technology, Nuclear Materials, Nuclear Reactor Control and Operation, Nuclear Reactor Safety and Reliability.

Course Description

The Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering is a two-year program, fully taught in English. The program is structured into two years of 60 ECTS credits each, including the final thesis work. Personalised curricula resulting from exchanges with foreign Universities, also within ENEN and FuseNet, are somewhat accepted.

Programme Overview

The teacher's network of international contacts often allows performing part of the thesis work in cooperation with or at renowned institutions in Italy and abroad. An updated list of the courses can be found within the program's documentation.

Academic Calendar

The academic calendar defines the periods of lectures, examinations, and vacations for all of the Engineering courses offered at the University of Pisa. All Engineering courses are taught over two semesters. Yearly courses are mostly taught in two parts or modules, with possible intermediate exams, held during the period between lectures.

• Lecture Periods:
  • Fall Semester: End of September → Mid December
  • Spring Semester: End of February → End of May
• Examinations:
  • sessions in January and February
  • sessions in June and July
  • sessions in September

Professional Perspectives

Nuclear Engineers graduated at the University of Pisa have found employment in Italy and abroad in the nuclear field and in conventional industry. The broad education in engineering matters and the specific skills in the nuclear field provide a flexible and targeted background that can be used for nuclear energy applications as well as for other major industrial endeavours. The research and development fields also absorb a considerable share of our graduates.

Admission

Admission to the Master's Degree Program in Nuclear Engineering of the University of Pisa is open to individuals holding a relevant scientific bachelor's degree, or an equivalent or superior foreign academic qualification. The applicants must be individuals with a qualification not obtained in Italy.

• An Evaluation Committee, appointed by the Master Program Board, will assess the applications, verifying that:
  • the applicant meets the admission requirements
  • the applicant's preparation is adequate to successfully attend the degree program activities, with particular attention to basic knowledge of mathematics, physics, structural mechanics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer
• A preliminary assessment will examine the applicant's CV and qualifications. Selected applicants will have to complete an online interview.

Requirements for Admission

In brief, the candidate should have passed sufficient university-level examinations in:

• Mathematics (at least 4 semesters)
• Physics (at least 2 semesters)
• Chemistry (at least 1 semester)
• Thermodynamics, Heat transfer, Energy systems (at least 1 semester)
• Strength of materials, mechanical drawing, mechanical design and production (at least 2 semesters) A reasonable knowledge of the English language is also requested (level B2 or equivalent).

Research Areas

The Nuclear Reactor Engineering Group focuses on various research areas, including:

• Thermal-hydraulics of Supercritical Pressure Fluids
• Severe Accident Analysis
• Lead Cooled Fast Reactors
• Fission Reactor Physics
• Structural Mechanics of Nuclear Reactors
• Nuclear Measurements and Radiation Protection

Conclusion

Nuclear engineering study is a wonderful cultural experience, aiming to contribute to developing the energy mix of the future. The use of nuclear energy is relatively young in civilization's history and has great development potential. Learning how to use it at its best is the commitment of those who wish to give the world an additional chance to reach fully sustainable development.