Nuclear Energy Engineering

The Master's Programme in Nuclear Energy Engineering at KTH Royal Institute of Technology offers a comprehensive and forward-looking education designed to prepare students for a leading role in the nuclear power industry and related sectors. This program provides in-depth knowledge of nuclear reactor technology, nuclear safety, radiological protection, and nuclear fuel cycles, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to develop, operate, and manage nuclear installations responsibly and sustainably. Throughout the programme, students explore advanced topics such as reactor physics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, materials science, and nuclear waste management, complemented by courses in systems operation and control, nuclear regulation, and emergency preparedness.

The curriculum is carefully structured to combine theoretical understanding with practical application. Students undertake project work, laboratory experiments, and collaborations with industry partners, fostering hands-on experience customized to meet the evolving demands of the nuclear sector. The programme emphasizes innovation, safety culture, and environmental considerations, aligning with international standards and best practices. Moreover, students have access to cutting-edge laboratories, simulation tools, and research facilities at KTH, which support their development as engineers capable of tackling complex engineering challenges in nuclear energy.

KTH’s strong connections with industry, government agencies, and research institutions provide students with excellent internship and networking opportunities, offering a pathway to careers in nuclear power plants, research reactors, consultancy firms, and regulatory bodies. Graduates of this master's programme are well-equipped to contribute to the development of new nuclear technologies, improve existing systems, and promote sustainable energy solutions worldwide. The programme also offers opportunities for further academic research, including PhD studies, in areas related to nuclear engineering and energy systems. Overall, the Nuclear Energy Engineering programme at KTH aims to foster responsible innovation, ensuring that future engineers are prepared to meet the global challenges of clean, safe, and reliable nuclear energy generation.

Year 1

Mandatory courses

• Sustainable Power Generation 9.0 credits
• Nuclear Reactor Physics, Major Course 9.0 credits
• Radiation, Protection, Dosimetry and Detectors 6.0 credits
• Nuclear Reactor Technology 8.0 credits
• Nuclear Power Safety 6.0 credits

Optional courses

• Reactor Chemistry 6.0 credits
• Renewable Energy Technology 6.0 credits
• Nuclear Physics 8.0 credits
• Generation IV Reactors 6.0 credits
• Radiation Damage in Materials 6.0 credits
• Leadership for Safe Nuclear Power Industry 6.0 credits
• Elements of the Back-end of the Nuclear Fuel Cycle: Geological Storage in Precambrian Bedrock 7.5 credits
• Thermal-Hydraulics in Nuclear Energy Engineering 6.0 credits
• Nuclear Reactor Dynamics and Stability 6.0 credits
• Monte Carlo Methods and Simulations in Nuclear Technology 6.0 credits
• Numerical Methods in Nuclear Engineering 6.0 credits

Year 2

Mandatory courses

• Theory and Methodology of Science (Natural and Technological Science) 4.5 credits
• Research Methodology in Physics 3.0 credits
• Degree Project in Physics, Second Cycle 30.0 credits
• The Nuclear Fuel Cycle 6.0 credits

Optional courses

• Atomic Physics for Fusion 6.0 credits
• Plasma Physics 6.0 credits
• Transmutation of Nuclear Waste 8.0 credits
• Management in Nuclear Industry 6.0 credits
• Neutron Transport Theory and Reactor Kinetics 6.0 credits
• Compact Reactor Simulator- Exercises in Reactor Kinetics and Dynamics 6.0 credits
• Chemistry and Physics of Nuclear Fuels 8.0 credits

Degree project and thesis

Students will complete the two-year Master’s programme with a degree project. The project and its resultant thesis may be performed at the Albanova University Centre (KTH), or at an external research facility, in a company in Sweden or in another country. With the growing need for competent employees in the nuclear industry, there are many opportunities to perform this project at a company in the industry. KTH’s nuclear departments have already established an excellent tradition of conducting several degree projects per year at top Swedish nuclear power companies (e.g. Vattenfall, Westinghouse, Forsmark).

There are also close contacts with other universities and research centres in Europe, USA and Asia, with opportunities for students to work abroad.

Requirements

• A completed Bachelor's degree, corresponding to a Swedish Bachelor's degree (180 ECTS credits), or equivalent academic qualifications from an internationally recognised university.
• Students in their final year of undergraduate education may apply to KTH and, if qualified, receive conditional acceptance. If you have not yet completed your studies, please include a written statement issued by the degree awarding university. This statement must be certified and stamped by the Academic Registrar's Office, the Examinations Office or equivalent of the institution. Statements from other staff members, such as faculty members, will not be accepted.
• Students who are following longer technical programmes, and have completed courses equivalent to a Bachelor´s degree (180 ECTS credits), will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Cover sheet (generated from the web-based application). However, if you have a Swedish personal ID number or if you choose to upload your documents, the cover sheet is not required.
• Certificates and diplomas from previous education at an internationally recognised university.
• Transcripts of records (including course list). All courses taken and grades must be included. Sort them in reverse chronological order, i.e. put the last received document on top.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• A copy of your passport or some other document of identification. If you are from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland and are required to document your citizenship status in order to be considered exempt from paying application and tuition fees, your passport copy must be certified. If you are not a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, certification of your passport copy is not required.
• Completed summary sheet
• IELTS A minimum overall mark of 6.5, with no section lower than 5.5 (only Academic Training accepted). 
• TOEFL Paper-based test: total result of 575 (written test, minimum grade 4.5)
• TOEFL  Internet-based test: total result of 90 (written test, minimum grade 20)

• A Bachelor's degree corresponding to 180 ECTS, or equivalent, with an academic background in at least one of the following fields; atomic/subatomic physics, mechanical engineering, applied physics, electrical/chemical engineering relevant to power generation/distribution, energy utilisation, material science.

• In addition the BSc Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) should be at least 75 % of the scale maximum.

Scholarships

• KTH Scholarship
• Russian Presidency Scholarship for Abroad Studies

The Master’s Program in Nuclear Energy Engineering at KTH Royal Institute of Technology offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and applications of nuclear power generation. The program is designed to provide a deep understanding of nuclear physics, reactor technology, safety analysis, and nuclear fuel cycle management. Students gain insight into reactor design, operation, and regulation, preparing them for careers in the nuclear industry, research institutions, and regulatory authorities. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical training, including laboratory work and simulation exercises, to develop both analytical skills and hands-on experience. Students have opportunities to participate in research projects focusing on advanced reactor concepts, nuclear safety, and radioactive waste management, fostering innovation and addressing current challenges in the sector.

The program emphasizes sustainable and safe nuclear energy solutions, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote clean energy sources. Collaboration with industry partners and research organizations facilitates internships and networking opportunities, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the nuclear sector. The program is typically completed over two years, resulting in a Master of Science degree. Graduates will be prepared for roles such as nuclear engineers, safety analysts, reactor operators, and policy advisors, contributing to the development and regulation of nuclear technologies worldwide. KTH’s strong faculty expertise and state-of-the-art facilities support a stimulating learning environment that combines academic excellence with real-world relevance. Students are encouraged to engage in international exchanges and multidisciplinary projects to broaden their perspectives and competencies in nuclear energy engineering.