Physics and Technology of Nuclear Reactors MSc

From radiation transport to reactor systems and fusion, you’ll study a broad range of physics and engineering topics that will open up a world of opportunities. You’ll also take part in field trips, including a day at a training reactor.

Course structure

You'll complete this advanced course in nuclear reactors either full time in one year or part time over two years. Learn in a variety of ways including lectures, laboratory work, computing and a research project.

• Get hands-on experience by spending a day at a training reactor, where reactor operators are trained.
• Learn from world-leading academic staff across different Schools within the University, gaining expert knowledge in the field.
• Engage in a summer project, typically based in the industry, and culminate your experience by writing it up as an MSc thesis.

• Learn through of a series of engaging lectures which demonstrate how experts will approach problems in your field, helping you think critically and apply concepts.
• Engage in tutorials and seminars that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning.
• Engage in projects and hands-on assignments that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enhancing your understanding and retention of concepts.
• Experience increased engagement and motivation with 1:1 supervision, held in a supportive environment where you feel valued throughout your academic journey.
• Develop critical, technical and analytical skills, including experimental design, data collection and analysis, problem-solving, and familiarise yourself with specialised equipment and techniques through laboratory work.

The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

2025/26

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• 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

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.

We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.