The University of Utah’s Nuclear Engineering Program is shaping future energy solutions and groundbreaking scientific advancements.
The University of Utah’s Nuclear Engineering Program stands out for its commitment to rigorous education, hands-on research, and real-world impact.
The TRIGA nuclear reactor: Turning theory into working knowledge
At the centre of this programme is the TRIGA nuclear reactor, a unique and invaluable asset for both students and faculty. The TRIGA reactor, located right on campus, is a safe and versatile research reactor, used not just for academic study but also for serving commercial and medical projects in the region.
Undergraduates and graduate students gain direct experience operating the reactor, conducting experiments, and working on everything from neutron activation analysis to radioisotope production.
This practical exposure isn’t something you find at most universities. Faculty lead cutting-edge research in nuclear energy, safety, and health physics, while collaborating with industry partners and national labs. Graduates leave with the technical expertise and critical problem-solving skills needed to step straight into the nuclear sector or to pursue advanced research.
The TRIGA reactor truly defines the programme, turning nuclear theory into working knowledge that students carry into their careers.
Research ready
Our faculty understands the importance of nuclear engineering research in shaping our society and charting a course for a sustainable and dynamic future.
Our TRIGA reactor allows them to specialise in some of nuclear engineering’s most critical and cutting-edge spaces, such as:
- Nuclear fuel cycles
- Medical isotope production
- Nuclear safeguards
- Radiation detection
- Radiation hardness testing
