School of Nuclear Science and Engineering
The School of Nuclear Science and Engineering provides world-class education so students can become industry, academic, and policy leaders driving the future of nuclear science worldwide.
The School offers BS, MEng, MS, and PhD degrees in Nuclear Engineering as well as BS, MHP, MS, and PhD degrees in Radiation Health Physics. A premedical option is available for those seeking a BS in Radiation Health Physics.
World-class facilities are utilized as a part of students’ education to further gain an understanding on relevant nuclear engineering and radiation health physics subject matters. These facilities reside within the Radiation Center Building on the Oregon State University campus and comprise a 1 MWth TRIGA Reactor, the Advanced Thermal Hydraulic Laboratory, the Advanced Nuclear Science and Engineering Laboratory, Advanced Nuclear Instrumentation Development Laboratory, and a Radiological Research Laboratory. Instruction is integrated with an extensive research program and opportunities to participate at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
The goals of the nuclear engineering and radiation health physics undergraduate curricula are to prepare students for careers related to the many beneficial uses of nuclear technology and energy. Nuclear engineers apply scientific principles to the research, design, and operation of a wide variety of nuclear technology applications including power generation, medicine, and radioactive waste management. Radiation health physicists study methods used to protect people and their environment from radiation hazards while enabling the beneficial uses of radiation and radioactive materials. In addition, an emphasis is provided in nuclear instrumentation, nuclear systems and materials, radiation protection, reactor analysis and nuclear power economics and, particularly, safety and regulation in nuclear operations.
Brian G. Woods, School Head
151 Batcheller Hall
1791 SW Campus Way
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR 97331-5902
Phone: 541-737-2343
Email: nse.info@oregonstate.edu
Website: https://engineering.oregonstate.edu/NSE
Faculty & Staff
NSE 233, MATHEMATICAL METHODS FOR NSE, 3 Credits
Development and application of analytical and numerical methods with applications to problems in the NE/RHP field. Major topics will include solution of ODEs and systems of ODEs, root finding techniques and numerical integration and differentiation. Major applications will include solution of the Bateman Equations and solution of the diffusion equation.
Prerequisite: MTH 256 with C or better or MTH 256H with C or better
NSE 234, NUCLEAR AND RADIATION PHYSICS I, 3 Credits
Relativistic dynamics; basic nuclear physics; basic quantum mechanics; radioactivity; electromagnetic waves; interaction of ionizing radiation with matter; cross sections; basic atomic structure.
Prerequisite: MTH 251 with C or better or MTH 251H with C or better
Equivalent to: NE 234, RHP 234
NSE 235, NUCLEAR AND RADIATION PHYSICS II, 3 Credits
Radioactivity; radioactive decay modes; decay kinetics, interaction of neutrons with matter; nuclear reactions; fission and fusion basics; cross sections.
Prerequisite: (NSE 234 with C or better or NE 234 with C or better or RHP 234 with C or better) and (MTH 252 [C] or MTH 252H [C])
Equivalent to: NE 235, RHP 235
NSE 236, NUCLEAR RADIATION DETECTION AND INSTRUMENTATION, 4 Credits
Principles and mechanisms underlying nuclear radiation detection and measurements; operation of nuclear electronic laboratory instrumentation; application of gas-filled, scintillation and semiconductor laboratory detectors for measurement of alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron radiation; experimental investigation of interactions of radiation with matter. Lec/lab.
Prerequisite: NSE 235 with C or better or NE 235 with C or better or RHP 235 with C or better
Equivalent to: NE 236, RHP 236
NSE 240, INTRODUCTION TO NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLES, 3 Credits
Introduces historic and modern nuclear fuel cycle development; enabling reactor technologies for current fuel cycle development from cradle-to-grave; prospective alternatives to LEU fuel cycles; closed fuel cycles, waste disposal, and nonproliferation.
Prerequisite: NSE 235 with C or better and CH 201 [C] and CH 202 [C]
NSE 281, INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH PHYSICS, 3 Credits
Explore health physics’ rich history, fundamental principles, and contemporary applications. Examine evolution of the discipline, from inception to present-day practices, gaining insights into pivotal history, milestones and technological advancements. Outline educational pathways to a successful career in health physics, evaluating academic degrees, certifications, and specialized training. Build essential skills and knowledge, including radiation detection and measurement techniques, risk assessment methods, and regulatory compliance assessments. Discuss diverse employment opportunities. Equip students with a holistic understanding of health physics and its vital role in maintaining a safe and secure world.
NSE 310, INTRODUCTION TO THERMODYNAMICS, 4 Credits
Introduces basic concepts of thermodynamics, by applying the first and second laws of thermodynamics. Solves engineering problems involving closed and open systems, as well as basic power and refrigeration cycles. CROSSLISTED as ME 310/NSE 310.
Prerequisite: (MTH 256 with C or better or MTH 256H with C or better) and (ENGR 212 [C] or ENGR 212H [C] or ME 217 [C])
Equivalent to: ME 310
NSE 311, INTRODUCTION TO THERMAL-FLUID SCIENCES, 4 Credits
Basic concepts of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and heat transfer are introduced. Conservation of mass, energy, moment and the second law of thermodynamics are included. CROSSLISTED as ME 311/NSE 311.
Prerequisite: (ENGR 212 with C or better or ENGR 212H with C or better) and (MTH 256 [C]
NSE 311H, INTRODUCTION TO THERMAL-FLUID SCIENCES, 4 Credits
Basic concepts of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and heat transfer are introduced. Conservation of mass, energy, moment and the second law of thermodynamics are included. CROSSLISTED as ME 311/NSE 311.
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Prerequisite: (ENGR 212 with C or better or ENGR 212H with C or better) and (MTH 256 [C] or MTH 256H [C])
NSE 312, THERMODYNAMICS, 4 Credits
Analyzes exergy destruction, machine and cycle processes, law of corresponding states, non-reactive gas mixtures, reactive mixtures, thermodynamics of compressible fluid flow. CROSSLISTED as ME 312/NSE 312.
Prerequisite: ME 311 with C or better or ME 311H with C or better or NSE 311 with C or better or NSE 311H with C or better or NE 311 with C or better or NE 311H with C or better
Equivalent to: ENGR 312, ME 312, ME 312H, NE 312, NE 312H, NSE 312H
NSE 312H, THERMODYNAMICS, 4 Credits
Analyzes exergy destruction, machine and cycle processes, law of corresponding states, non-reactive gas mixtures, reactive mixtures, thermodynamics of compressible fluid flow. CROSSLISTED as ME 312/NSE 312.
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Prerequisite: ME 311 with C or better or ME 311H with C or better or NSE 311 with C or better or NSE 311H with C or better or NE 311 with C or better or NE 311H with C or better
Equivalent to: ENGR 312, ME 312, ME 312H, NE 312, NE 312H, NSE 312
NSE 319, *SOCIETAL ASPECTS OF NUCLEAR TECHNOLOGY, 3 Credits
Description and discussion of nuclear-related issues as they impact society. (Bacc Core Course)
Attributes: CSST – Bacc Core, Synthesis, Science/Technology/Society
Equivalent to: NE 319
NSE 321, INTRODUCTION TO NUCLEAR MATERIALS SCIENCE, 3 Credits
Provides an introduction and overview of material science challenges and considerations for nuclear power applications. Discusses fundamental material science concepts in the context of the extreme environments typified by nuclear systems, including crystal structure, defects, diffusion, mechanical properties, and phase transformations. Investigates common materials science obstacles and challenges posed by both modern and next-generation nuclear reactor designs.
Prerequisite: CH 202 with C or better or CH 232 with C or better or CH 232H with C or better
NSE 330, INTRODUCTION TO FLUID MECHANICS AND HEAT TRANSFER, 4 Credits
Introduces basic concepts of fluid dynamics and heat transfer. Applies conservation equations and dimensional analysis to solve engineering problems relevant to incompressible pipe systems and external flows, as well as conductive, convective, and radiative heat transfer. CROSSLISTED as ME 330/NSE 330.
Prerequisite: ME 310 with C or better or NSE 310 with C or better
NSE 331, FLUID MECHANICS, 4 Credits
Introduces the concepts and applications of fluid mechanics and dimensional analysis with an emphasis on fluid behavior, internal and external flows, analysis of engineering applications of incompressible pipe systems, and external aerodynamics. CROSSLISTED as ME 331/NSE 331.
Prerequisite: ME 330 with C or better or ME 330H with C or better or NSE 330 with C or better
NSE 331H, INTRODUCTORY FLUID MECHANICS, 4 Credits
Introduces the concepts and applications of fluid mechanics and dimensional analysis with an emphasis on fluid behavior, internal and external flows, analysis of engineering applications of incompressible pipe systems, and external aerodynamics. CROSSLISTED as ME 331/NSE 331.
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Prerequisite: ENGR 311 with C or better or ENGR 311H with C or better or ME 311 with C or better or ME 311H with C or better or NSE 311 with C or better or NSE 311H with C or better or NE 311 with C or better or NE 311H with C or better
NSE 332, HEAT TRANSFER, 4 Credits
Analyzes conductive, convective and radiative energy transfer using control volume and differential analysis and prediction of transport properties. CROSSLISTED as ME 332/NSE 332.
Prerequisite: (ME 310 with C or better or NSE 310 with C or better) and (ME 331 [C] or ME 331H [C] or NSE 331 [C] or NSE 331H [C])
NSE 332H, HEAT TRANSFER, 4 Credits
Analyzes conductive, convective and radiative energy transfer using control volume and differential analysis and prediction of transport properties. CROSSLISTED as ME 332/NSE 332.
Attributes: HNRS – Honors Course Designator
Prerequisite: (ME 310 with C or better or NSE 310 with C or better) and (ME 331 [C] or ME 331H [C] or NSE 331 [C] or NSE 331H [C])
NSE 351, INTRODUCTION TO NUCLEAR REACTOR ENGINEERING, 3 Credits
Covers an introduction to nuclear reactor systems. Emphasizes essential principles of nuclear reactor physics and their application in reactor designs. Explores reactor types, static and dynamic system attributes, and heat generation and removal to grasp the fundamental concepts governing nuclear energy generation. Provides insights into reactor kinetics, core materials, energy conversion through theoretical exploration and practical examples. Develops foundational knowledge base in nuclear engineering, laying the groundwork for future exploration in this innovative field.
Prerequisite: NSE 235 with C or better and (MTH 256 (may be taken concurrently) [C] or MTH 256H (may be taken concurrently) [C])
NSE 401, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: NE 401
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
NSE 403, THESIS/DISSERTATION, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: NE 403
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 405, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: NE 405
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 406, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: NE 406
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 407, SEMINAR, 1 Credit
Equivalent to: RHP 407
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 410, INTERNSHIP, 1-12 Credits
Supervised technical work experience at approved organizations.
Equivalent to: RHP 410
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
NSE 414, NUCLEAR ETHICS AND GOVERNANCE, 3 Credits
Integrates the historical and ethical principles foundational to current regulations and practices impacting the nuclear sector. Explores professional engagement in the rulemaking process. Examines key nuclear regulatory agencies and major legislation featuring nuclear energy, environmental protection, and public health both domestically and internationally.
Prerequisite: NSE 236 with C or better
NSE 415, NUCLEAR RULES AND REGULATIONS, 2 Credits
An introduction to the key nuclear regulatory agencies; major nuclear legislation; current radiation protection standards and organizations responsible for their implementation.
Prerequisite: NSE 236 with C or better
Recommended: NSE 481
NSE 429, SELECTED TOPICS IN NUCLEAR ENGINEERING, 1-3 Credits
Topics associated with nuclear engineering not covered in other undergraduate courses; topics may vary from year to year.
Equivalent to: NE 429
This course is repeatable for 45 credits.
NSE 435, RADIATION SHIELDING AND EXTERNAL DOSIMETRY, 4 Credits
Theoretical principles of shielding for neutron and gamma radiation; external dosimetry fundamentals for neutrons, photons, and charged particles; applications to problems of practical interest; analytical, numerical, and computer solutions emphasized.
Prerequisite: NSE 234 with C or better and NSE 235 [C] and NSE 481 [C]
NSE 440, NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND WASTE MANAGEMENT, 4 Credits
Mining, milling, conversion, enrichment, fuel fabrication, reprocessing, and waste management of nuclear fuel, including disposal of low- and high-level radioactive waste.
Prerequisite: NSE 235 with C or better
NSE 445, MATERIALS FOR NUCLEAR ENERGY SYSTEMS, 3 Credits
Provides an introduction and overview of material science challenges and considerations for the construction and long-term operation of power plants, with an emphasis on nuclear power plants. Discusses advanced material science topics in the context of degradation in extreme environments typified by energy systems, including crystal structure, thermodynamic equilibrium, microstructural evolution, crystal defects, diffusion, and thermal and mechanical properties. Assesses environmental factors affecting or accelerating degradation as well as common modes of materials failure in power and energy applications.
Prerequisite: MATS 321 with C or better
NSE 446, MICROSTRUCTURE CHARACTERIZATION OF STRUCTURAL AND ENERGY MATERIALS, 4 Credits
Uses basic material knowledge to understand the microstructure – property relationships in materials. Explores the usage of modern examination techniques, including microstructure characterization and mechanical property assessment, to characterize and qualify materials for structural and energy applications.
Prerequisite: MATS 321 with C or better or MATS 321H with C or better
NSE 451, NEUTRONIC ANALYSIS I, 3 Credits
Focuses on physical models of neutronic systems, nuclear physics, steady-state and transient neutronic system behavior; introductory neutron transport theory; one speed diffusion theory; numerical methods; fast and thermal spectrum calculations; multigroup methods; transmutation and burnup; reactor fuel management; reactivity control; perturbation theory.
Prerequisite: (MTH 256 with C or better or MTH 256H with C or better) and NSE 233 [C] and NSE 235 [C]
Recommended: Computer programming experience
NSE 452, NEUTRONIC ANALYSIS II, 3 Credits
Physical models of neutronic systems; nuclear physics; steady state and transient neutronic system behavior; introductory neutron transport theory, one speed diffusion theory; numerical methods; fast and thermal spectrum calculations; multigroup methods; transmutation and burnup; reactor fuel management; reactivity control; perturbation theory; neutronic laboratory sessions.
Prerequisite: NSE 451 with C or better
NSE 455, REACTOR OPERATOR TRAINING I, 3 Credits
The Oregon State University TRIGA reactor Operator Training I course culminates in the opportunity to take a certification test proctored by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Prerequisite: NSE 236 with C or better and (MTH 256 [C] or MTH 256H [C])
NSE 457, NUCLEAR REACTOR LABORATORY, 2 Credits
Experimental investigation of the principles of nuclear reactor operation. Use of the OSU TRIGA Reactor and other laboratory facilities. Preparation and presentation of laboratory reports.
NSE 467, NUCLEAR REACTOR THERMAL HYDRAULICS, 4 Credits
Hydrodynamics and conductive, convective and radiative heat transfer in nuclear reactor systems. Core heat removal design; critical heat flux, hot spot factors, single- and two-phase flow behavior. Advanced thermal hydraulic computer codes.
Prerequisite: ME 332 with C or better or ME 332H with C or better or NSE 332 with C or better or NSE 332H with C or better
NSE 473, NUCLEAR REACTOR SYSTEMS ANALYSIS, 3 Credits
Analysis of nuclear light water reactor (pressurized water reactor and boiling water reactor) design and operation, including the nuclear steam supply system, engineered safety features and balance of plant systems; regulatory design requirements; industry standards; plant engineering and instrumentation drawings. Advanced reactor system designs.
Prerequisite: NSE 452 with C or better
NSE 474, ^NUCLEAR SYSTEMS DESIGN I, 4 Credits
Part I of a two-part series aimed at developing the student's ability to utilize fundamental nuclear and radiation protection skills to transform concepts into practical designs. Design projects involve the integration of neutronics, thermal hydraulics, safety and risk analysis, power production, materials, radiation protection, economic optimization, statistics and other skills.
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
Prerequisite: NSE 481 with C or better
NSE 475, ^NUCLEAR SYSTEMS DESIGN II, 4 Credits
Part II of a two-part series aimed at developing the student's ability to utilize fundamental nuclear and radiation protection skills to transform concepts into practical designs. Design projects involve the integration of neutronics, thermal hydraulics, safety and risk analysis, power production, materials, radiation protection, economic optimization, statistics and other skills.
Attributes: CSWC – Core Ed - Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC); CWIC – Bacc Core, Skills, Writing Intensive Curriculum (WIC)
NSE 481, RADIATION PROTECTION, 4 Credits
Explores fundamental principles and theory of radiation protection; regulatory agencies, dose units; source of radiation; biological effects and risk; dose limits; applications of external and internal dosimetry; and atmospheric dispersion.
Prerequisite: NSE 235 with C or better
NSE 483, RADIATION BIOLOGY, 3 Credits
Biological effects of ionizing radiation at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels with emphasis on vertebrates; both acute and chronic radiation effects are considered.
Prerequisite: NSE 481 with C or better
NSE 488, RADIOECOLOGY, 3 Credits
Radionuclides in the environment: their measurement and identification, uptake and transfer through food chains. Effect of radiation on natural populations of plants and animals.
Prerequisite: NSE 481 with C or better
NSE 499, SPECIAL TOPICS, 0-16 Credits
Equivalent to: NE 499
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 501, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 501
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 503, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 503
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 505, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 505
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 506, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 506
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 507, SEMINAR, 1 Credit
Equivalent to: MP 507
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 510, INTERNSHIP, 1-12 Credits
Supervised technical work experience at approved organizations. Graded P/N.
Equivalent to: MP 510
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 514, NUCLEAR ETHICS AND GOVERNANCE, 3 Credits
Integrates the historical and ethical principles foundational to current regulations and practices impacting the nuclear sector. Explores professional engagement in the rulemaking process. Examines key nuclear regulatory agencies and major legislation featuring nuclear energy, environmental protection, and public health both domestically and internationally.
NSE 515, NUCLEAR RULES AND REGULATIONS, 2 Credits
An introduction to the key nuclear regulatory agencies; major nuclear legislation; current radiation protection standards and organizations responsible for their implementation.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 516, RADIOCHEMISTRY, 4 Credits
Selected methods in radiochemical analysis. Actinide chemistry, activation analysis, radionuclide solvent extraction, and microbial reactions with radionuclides.
Prerequisite: NSE 531 with C or better or NSE 536 with C or better
Equivalent to: CH 516
This course is repeatable for 12 credits.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 517, RADIONUCLIDES IN LIFE SCIENCES, 4 Credits
Chemistry of actinides and fission products, radioseparations, selected medical generators, radiolabeling of organic molecules. Designed for majors in medical physics, radiation health physics, chemistry, pharmacy.
Prerequisite: (NSE 531 with C or better or NE 531 with C or better or RHP 531 with C or better) and (NSE 536 [C] or NE 536 [C] or RHP 536 [C])
Available via Ecampus
NSE 519, RADIOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS, 4 Credits
Hands-on learning of radiochemistry, practical training with open radiation sources for preparation of irradiation targets, counting samples from contaminated soils or separation of medical radionuclides. Fundamentals of chemical dosimetry are also covered. Designed for a broad range of majors in chemistry, nuclear engineering, radiation health physics, radioecology, chemical and environmental engineering.
Prerequisite: NSE 536 with C or better or NE 536 with C or better or RHP 536 with C or better
Recommended: NSE 516
Available via Ecampus
NSE 522, NUCLEAR SECURITY SCIENCE, 4 Credits
Explores the nuclear fuel cycle from the perspective of nuclear security and safeguards and in the context of current international nuclear policies. Nuclear threats are balanced with the past history of nuclear weapons use, current nonproliferation technology, and the future international growth of the nuclear industry. Critical thinking will be assessed by way of in-class discussions, journal article reviews, written analysis of fuel cycle signatures, and conducting research. Signatures including radiological and morphological characteristics of nuclear material is introduced as well as the techniques for the detection of special nuclear materials.
NSE 525, NUCLEAR SECURITY SYSTEM DESIGN, 3 Credits
Studies the science and engineering associated with the design, evaluation, and implementation of systems to secure nuclear and radiological materials. Topics include adversary characterization, target categorization and the consequences of failure to protect targets, detection and delay technologies, on-site and off-site response and response strategies, insider threat evaluation, and mathematical methods for evaluating risk due to the threat and the security system design. Students will become familiar with the components of a sustainable nuclear security program and their interconnections, and learn about the planning of nuclear security activities at both the state and facility level.
NSE 526, NUMERICAL METHODS FOR ENGINEERING ANALYSIS, 3 Credits
Numerical solutions of linear equations, difference equations, ordinary and partial differential equations. CROSSLISTED as ME 526/NSE 526.
Equivalent to: ME 526
Recommended: Programming experience and previous exposure to numerical methods
NSE 531, RADIOPHYSICS, 3 Credits
Expands understanding of concepts and applications of atomic and nuclear physics to enable continued study in nuclear engineering and health physics. Includes fundamental concepts of nuclear and atomic physics, atomic and nuclear shell structure, radioactive decay, radiation interactions, radiation biology, and the characteristics of fission.
Equivalent to: MP 531
Available via Ecampus
NSE 533, DETECTION OF SPECIAL NUCLEAR MATERIALS, 3 Credits
Designed for students interested in radiation measurements and nuclear security, especially those considering PhD-level work in this area. Covers topics including special nuclear material characteristics, radiation background and it interferences with SNM, an introduction to MCNPX, a brief introduction to Geant4, detection of SNM via counting or imaging, localization of SNM; and characterization of SNM.
Prerequisite: NSE 536 with C or better
NSE 534, APPLIED DETECTION FOR NUCLEAR SECURITY, 3 Credits
Applied detection techniques currently being deployed globally for nuclear security are presented in lectures and explored in practical exercises. A prominent feature of this class is the unique opportunity to complete the Nuclear Security Education Program (NSEP) Training program hosted at the HAMMER federal training center.
Prerequisite: NSE 536 with C or better
NSE 535, RADIATION SHIELDING AND EXTERNAL DOSIMETRY, 4 Credits
Theoretical principles of shielding for neutron and gamma radiation; external dosimetry fundamentals for neutrons, photons, and charged particles; applications to problems of practical interest; analytical, numerical, and computer solutions emphasized.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 536, ADVANCED RADIATION DETECTION AND MEASUREMENT, 4 Credits
Principles and mechanisms underlying nuclear radiation detection and measurements; operation of nuclear electronic laboratory instrumentation; application of gas-filled, scintillation and semiconductor laboratory detectors for measurement of alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron radiation, liquid scintillation equipment; use of Bonner spheres for neutron energy profiles; experimental investigation of interactions of radiation with matter. Lec/lab.
Prerequisite: NSE 531 with C or better or NE 531 with C or better or RHP 531 with C or better or MP 531 with C or better
Equivalent to: MP 536
Available via Ecampus
NSE 537, DIGITAL RADIATION MEASUREMENT AND SPECTROSCOPY, 3 Credits
Principles of digital spectroscopy; application of digital filters in digital processing of detector pulses; hardware implementation of a typical digital spectrometer; introduction of Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) devices programming a digital spectrometer using Hardware Description Language (VHDL); simulation, synthesis and spectroscopy; experimental design tests and evaluation. Lec/lab.
Prerequisite: NSE 536 with C or better or NE 536 with C or better or RHP 536 with C or better
Equivalent to: NE 537
Available via Ecampus
NSE 539, SELECTED TOPICS IN INTERACTION OF NUCLEAR RADIATION, 1-6 Credits
Topics associated with interactions of nuclear radiation not covered in other graduate courses; topics may vary from year to year.
Equivalent to: NE 539
NSE 540, NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND WASTE MANAGEMENT, 4 Credits
Mining, milling, conversion, enrichment, fuel fabrication, reprocessing, and waste management of nuclear fuel, including disposal of low- and high-level radioactive waste.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 545, MATERIALS FOR NUCLEAR ENERGY SYSTEMS, 3 Credits
Provides an introduction and overview of material science challenges and considerations for the construction and long-term operation of power plants, with an emphasis on nuclear power plants. Discusses advanced material science topics in the context of degradation in extreme environments typified by energy systems, including crystal structure, thermodynamic equilibrium, microstructural evolution, crystal defects, diffusion, and thermal and mechanical properties. Assesses environmental factors affecting or accelerating degradation as well as common modes of materials failure in power and energy applications.
Prerequisite: MATS 570 with C or better
NSE 546, MICROSTRUCTURE CHARACTERIZATION OF STRUCTURAL AND ENERGY MATERIALS, 4 Credits
Uses basic material knowledge to understand the microstructure – property relationships in materials. Explores the usage of modern examination techniques, including microstructure characterization and mechanical property assessment, to characterize and qualify materials for structural and energy applications.
NSE 549, SELECTED TOPICS IN NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE ANALYSIS, 1-6 Credits
Topics associated with the nuclear fuel cycle not covered in other graduate courses; topics may vary from year to year.
Equivalent to: NE 549
This course is repeatable for 45 credits.
NSE 551, NEUTRONIC ANALYSIS I, 3 Credits
Focuses on physical models of neutronic systems, nuclear physics, steady-state and transient neutronic system behavior; introductory neutron transport theory; one speed diffusion theory; numerical methods; fast and thermal spectrum calculations; multigroup methods; transmutation and burnup; reactor fuel management; reactivity control; perturbation theory.
Recommended: Computer programming experience
NSE 552, NEUTRONIC ANALYSIS II, 3 Credits
Physical models of neutronic systems; nuclear physics; steady state and transient neutronic system behavior; introductory neutron transport theory; one speed diffusion theory; numerical methods; fast and thermal spectrum calculations; multigroup methods; transmutation and burnup; reactor fuel management; reactivity control; perturbation theory; neutronic laboratory sessions.
Prerequisite: NSE 551 with C or better
NSE 553, ADVANCED NUCLEAR REACTOR PHYSICS, 3 Credits
Advanced analytic and numerical techniques for the prediction of the neutron population in nuclear reactor systems. Topic will include long characteristic neutron transport, collision probabilities, nodal methods, equivalence theory, and perturbation theory.
Prerequisite: (NSE 551 with C or better or NE 551 with C or better) and (NSE 552 [C] or NE 552 [C])
Equivalent to: NE 553
Recommended: Computer programming experience
NSE 555, REACTOR OPERATOR TRAINING I, 3 Credits
The Oregon State University TRIGA reactor Operator Training I course culminates in the opportunity to take a certification test proctored by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
NSE 557, NUCLEAR REACTOR LABORATORY, 2 Credits
Experimental investigation of the principles of nuclear reactor operation. Use of the OSU TRIGA Reactor and other laboratory facilities. Preparation and presentation of laboratory reports.
NSE 559, SELECTED TOPICS IN NUCLEAR REACTOR ANALYSIS, 1-3 Credits
Topics associated with nuclear reactor theory not covered in other graduate courses; topics may vary from year to year.
Equivalent to: NE 559
This course is repeatable for 45 credits.
NSE 565, APPLIED THERMAL HYDRAULICS, 3 Credits
Explores advanced topics in the computational modeling and simulation of the thermal-hydraulic phenomena of nuclear reactors. Focuses on steady-state and transient solutions of one-dimensional nuclear reactor thermal hydraulic models. Analyzes reactor behavior during various accident scenarios. Uses Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling techniques as it applies to thermal- hydraulic problems in nuclear reactors. Applies verification, validation and error and uncertainty quantification in nuclear reactors thermal-hydraulic modeling.
Prerequisite: NSE 567 with C or better
NSE 567, NUCLEAR REACTOR THERMAL HYDRAULICS, 4 Credits
Hydrodynamics and conductive, convective and radiative heat transfer in nuclear reactor systems. Core heat removal design; critical heat flux, hot spot factors, single- and two-phase flow behavior. Advanced thermal hydraulic computer codes.
NSE 568, NUCLEAR REACTOR SAFETY, 3 Credits
Focused on probability risk assessment and system reliability analysis techniques applied to nuclear reactor safety. Application of these methods will be performed specifically through examination of neutronics and thermal hydraulic transients, effectiveness of emergency systems, accident prevention and mitigation, and assessment of radioactive release to the environment.
Prerequisite: (NSE 551 with C or better or NE 551 with C or better) and (NSE 567 [C] or NE 567 [C])
Equivalent to: NE 568
NSE 569, SELECTED TOPICS IN NUCLEAR REACTOR ENGINEERING, 1-6 Credits
Advanced nuclear engineering design concepts, reactor systems analysis techniques and innovative nuclear engineering applications. Artificial intelligence and expert system applications to nuclear engineering problems. Topics may vary from year to year.
Equivalent to: NE 569
This course is repeatable for 30 credits.
NSE 573, NUCLEAR REACTOR SYSTEMS ANALYSIS, 3 Credits
Analysis of nuclear light water reactor (pressurized water reactor and boiling water reactor) design and operation, including the nuclear steam supply system, engineered safety features and balance of plant systems; regulatory design requirements; industry standards; plant engineering and instrumentation drawings. Advanced reactor system designs.
Prerequisite: NSE 552 with C or better
NSE 574, NUCLEAR SYSTEMS DESIGN I, 4 Credits
Part I of a two-part series aimed at developing the student's ability to utilize fundamental nuclear and radiation protection skills to transform concepts into practical designs. Design projects involve the integration of neutronics, thermal hydraulics, safety and risk analysis, power production, materials, radiation protection, economic optimization, statistics and other skills.
NSE 575, NUCLEAR SYSTEMS DESIGN II, 4 Credits
Part II of a two-part series aimed at developing the student's ability to utilize fundamental nuclear and radiation protection skills to transform concepts into practical designs. Design projects involve the integration of neutronics, thermal hydraulics, safety and risk analysis, power production, materials, radiation protection, economic optimization, statistics and other skills.
Prerequisite: NSE 551 with C or better and NSE 552 [C] and NSE 574 [C]
NSE 582, APPLIED RADIATION SAFETY, 4 Credits
Application of radiation protection as practiced in the fields of nuclear science and engineering; application of health physics principles to reduce health hazards at each of the following stages: design, prevention, assessment, and post-incident. A history of key nuclear regulatory agencies; early and current radiation protection standards and organizations responsible for their formulation; major nuclear legislation; pertinent nuclear rules and regulations and their application. Lec/lab.
Equivalent to: MP 582
Available via Ecampus
NSE 583, RADIATION BIOLOGY, 3 Credits
Biological effects of ionizing radiation at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels with emphasis on vertebrates; both acute and chronic radiation effects are considered.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 588, RADIOECOLOGY, 3 Credits
Radionuclides in the environment: their measurement and identification, uptake and transfer through food chains. Effect of radiation on natural populations of plants and animals.
Recommended: NSE 481
Available via Ecampus
NSE 590, INTERNAL DOSIMETRY, 3 Credits
Further development and more in-depth treatment of internal dosimetry concepts, theoretical basis of energy deposition, biokinetics, and estimation of radiation risk from ingested, inhaled, or injected radionuclides.
Prerequisite: NSE 531 with C or better and NSE 535 [C]
Equivalent to: NE 590, RHP 590
Available via Ecampus
NSE 599, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 601, RESEARCH, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 601
This course is repeatable for 99 credits.
NSE 603, THESIS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 603
This course is repeatable for 999 credits.
Available via Ecampus
NSE 605, READING AND CONFERENCE, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 601
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 606, PROJECTS, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 606
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 607, SEMINAR, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 607
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 610, INTERNSHIP, 1-16 Credits
Equivalent to: MP 610
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 654, COMPUTATIONAL PARTICLE TRANSPORT, 3 Credits
Properties of and methods for solution of the linear Boltzmann equation for nuclear reactors; spherical and double-spherical harmonics; integral equation methods; Monte Carlo methods.
Prerequisite: (NSE 551 with C or better or NE 551 with C or better) and (NSE 552 [C] or NE 552 [C])
Equivalent to: NE 654
NSE 667, ADVANCED THERMAL HYDRAULICS, 3 Credits
Advanced topics in single- and two-phase hydrodynamics and heat transfer for nuclear reactors. Two-phase flow patterns, flow instabilities, condensation induced transients, convective boiling heat transfer, and current topics in reactor safety thermal hydraulics. Offered alternate years.
Prerequisite: NSE 567 with C or better or NE 567 with C or better
Equivalent to: NE 667
NSE 699, SPECIAL TOPICS, 1-16 Credits
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.
NSE 808, WORKSHOP, 1-4 Credits
Equivalent to: NE 808
This course is repeatable for 16 credits.