Program Overview

Introduction to the Nuclear Packaging Graduate Program

The Nuclear Packaging Graduate Program (NPGP) is designed to address the growing need for professionals in the nuclear sector who can design, regulate, and operate nuclear packages. The program is supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Packaging Certification Program (PCP) and is offered by the University of Nevada, Reno.

Program Overview

The NPGP provides students with the depth and breadth of knowledge required to solve complex nuclear packaging challenges. The program offers two 9-unit graduate certificates: the Graduate Certificate in Nuclear Packaging (GCNP) and the Graduate Certificate in Transportation Security and Safeguards (GCTSS).

Graduate Certificate in Nuclear Packaging (GCNP)

The GCNP focuses on the design, review, and use of packages for Type B and fissile materials, including spent nuclear fuel.

Graduate Certificate in Transportation Security and Safeguards (GCTSS)

The GCTSS focuses on U.S. and international technical requirements and challenges around protecting, controlling, and accounting for nuclear/radiological materials during their transport.

Program Requirements

To earn either certificate, students must:

• Complete four weeks (four units) of required Packaging University courses offered at DOE national laboratories or other authorized locations
• Choose five units of electives from the following options:
  • Over 15 one- or two-unit Packaging University classes
  • A three-unit, semester-long supervised project completed at their workplace
  • A three-unit, semester-long online Introduction to Nuclear Packaging course offered by the University of Nevada, Reno

Program Details

The NPGP is a practice-based, accredited-university credential that takes less time to complete than research-based M.S. or Ph.D. degrees. The program is taught by DOE national laboratory subject-matter experts and provides students with specialized knowledge and skills required to address complex nuclear packaging challenges.