The Nuclear Engineering program at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required to excel in the field of nuclear technology and energy. This program integrates fundamental principles of physics, chemistry, and engineering with specialized courses focusing on nuclear reactor design, operation, safety, and radiological protection. Students will gain a deep understanding of nuclear physics, reactor physics, thermal-hydraulics, and nuclear materials, preparing them for diverse careers in the nuclear industry, research, and regulation. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through laboratory work, simulations, and projects, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world challenges. Participants will also explore topics such as nuclear waste management, nuclear safety analysis, and the development of innovative solutions for sustainable nuclear energy production. The curriculum is designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and critical thinking, essential for addressing complex problems related to nuclear technology. Furthermore, students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and are encouraged to participate in internships and collaborative projects with industry partners. Upon completion, graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in nuclear power plants, research institutions, government agencies, and international organizations dedicated to nuclear safety and non-proliferation. The program also provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing advanced studies or doctoral research in nuclear science and engineering. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, the Nuclear Engineering program at EPFL prepares students to become leaders and innovators contributing to the development of safe and efficient nuclear energy solutions in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

Core Courses

The Core Courses lay the foundation of the Master's program in providing students with core knowledge according to the program’s goals and the qualification profile. Core Courses are described in the course catalogue, with an indication as to whether they are compulsory. All examinations can be repeated only once. If a compulsory course is not passed during the examination repetition, the student will be de-registered from the program without a degree. All students select a set of elective courses complementing the compulsory core subjects of the program in consultation with their tutors. This curriculum should guarantee a solid, versatile educational foundation and take the student’s talents and expectations into account at the same time. The tutor also supervises the student during the entire Master's degree program, keeping track of his/her progress and providing guidance when necessary.

Semester 1

Semester 2

Semester 3

Electives

The courses in the category “Electives” can either serve to add depth to scientific and technical knowledge related to the chosen specialization or add breadth to the range of skills in other disciplines, such as economics, management or the humanities. The courses may be selected from among the complete master's level course catalogue of ETH Zurich and EPF Lausanne. At least 4 credit points must be obtained from courses from the section of humanities or, respectively, from entrepreneurship and technology management.

Semester Project

In the Semester Project, students gain their first experience of research and development in the nuclear engineering field, deploying the knowledge and competences acquired in the first two semesters. The project is generally realized within six full-time study weeks in the third semester at the Paul Scherrer Insitut (PSI), parallel to the PSI courses, and concluded with a written report and a presentation.

The supervisor of the Semester Project is always a professor from ETH Zurich or EPF Lausanne. With the approval of the tutor, the Semester Project can also be completed under the supervision of another ETH professor, with the same requirements.

The enrollment for the Semester Project is required in myStudies with the associated details (start date, submission deadline, title, supervisor). The registration is final when the supervisor and the tutor approve it.

At the end of the 2nd semester, NES organizes a day trip for the nuclear engineering master's students at PSI. Each one of the seven laboratories of the NES (i.e. LRS, LTH, AHL, LES, LEA, LNM, LRC) presents possible projects to the students on which they can work during their Semester Project; later on, they might continue their Master's Thesis on the same project (upon agreement). During this day-trip visit, the students also have the opportunity to visit the main experimental facilities located at PSI.

Industrial Internship

The aim of the Internship is to bring the student into contact with the professional work environment in the industry. During this period, the student will have the opportunity to be involved in ongoing projects at the host institute.

The Internship is compulsory, must be at least 12 weeks long and can be carried out during the third semester.

Students have to complete an Internship in units and institutions of the nuclear utilities in Switzerland, in ZWILAG or NAGRA, at the Swiss nuclear regulator ENSI or in one of the companies offering services to the nuclear industry. Students can also search for opportunities in the fields of radiation protection, monitoring and nuclear medicine. Alternatively, the Internship can be carried out in a foreign industrial company. Students may organize their Internship independently, or they can ask their tutors for advice and support. The tutors will help the students establish contact with the industrial enterprise. They are ready to discuss tasks, the work plan and results.

To acquire the 8 ECTS for the Internship, all students must submit a letter of confirmation from the company and the approval of the Internship from their tutor to Student Administration. It is necessary to include the Industrial Internship in the registration on myStudies in order to receive the credit points.

Master's Thesis

The Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering is concluded by the completion of a scientific thesis. The thesis is aimed at enhancing the students’ ability to work independently towards the solution of a theoretical and/or experimental research and development problem in nuclear engineering.

The Master's Thesis (30 ECTS) involves the full-time workload of a full semester (25 weeks), allocated in the fourth semester of the Master's program.

In general, the Master's Thesis is pursued in one of the research laboratories of the Nuclear Energy and Safety Department (NES) at PSI or the ETH Domain’s research institute, which is Switzerland’s main player in R&D related to nuclear (fission) energy. A senior NES scientist, under academic mentorship of the responsible professor, is identified for direct supervision of the Master's research.

Alternatively, Master's Theses can be accomplished in the Laboratory of Nuclear Energy Systems at ETH Zurich or in the Laboratory of Reactor Physics and Systems Behaviour at EPF Lausanne. The definition of the work plans for each Master’s Thesis, as well as the goals, is monitored by the supervising professor, who doesn’t have to be the tutor.

Before starting the Master's Thesis, all students must have obtained at least 80 of the 90 course work credits (including the 8 credits for the Semester Project). All students must register the Master’s Thesis on myStudies with all the details: start date, submission deadline and title, and also upload the project description. The thesis is only registered definitely after confirmation by the supervisor and the tutor.

• Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree from a reputable university and excellent academic results. The strong interdisciplinary character of the Master in Nuclear Engineering is reflected in the fact that the program is open to a wide range of Bachelor’s degree holders in exact sciences and engineering. Candidates are expected to have a solid background in mathematics, physics and a good engineering foundation.​
• Your resumé (curriculum vitae)
• Copy of your University degree(s) or Bachelor's degree. If you don't have your degree yet, you will bring it to the Registrar's Office upon registration at EPFL*.
• Legalized transcripts from each university you have attended.
• A statement of purpose. See hereunder for a more detailed explanation.
• Three recommendations (except holders of any EPFL Bachelor's degree applying in another field than their original field and except for candidates from another Swiss university applying to a Master in the same field of study as their Bachelor).
  During the electronic application process, you will have to give the details of three referees, who will then be requested to produce recommendation letters for you directly to EPFL. See hereunder for a more detailed explanation.
• Your identity card or passport.
• For foreigners who already live in Switzerland: your residence permit.
• Extra documents such as TOEFL or GRE scores, research publications or other portfolios of your previous work, are welcome but not compulsory. We will only consider documents uploaded in your online application form. (No documents sent by postal mail).
• Application fee CHF 150.

The Nuclear Engineering program at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne offers a range of financing opportunities for prospective students to support their studies. Tuition fees for master's programs are typically structured based on the student's nationality and residence status, with international students often paying higher fees than Swiss residents. The university provides detailed information on tuition costs, which generally range from approximately CHF 1,000 to CHF 4,000 per semester for Swiss students, and higher amounts for international students, though these figures are subject to change annually. In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider expenses related to living costs, including accommodation, food, transportation, and learning materials. Lausanne is known for its high quality of life and offers various student housing options, some of which are subsidized or managed through the university, reducing financial burdens.

Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available through multiple channels. The Swiss government and cantonal authorities provide grants and scholarships for Swiss students and sometimes for international students meeting specific criteria. The Swiss Confederation Excellence Scholarships, for instance, are intended for outstanding international students and can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and insurance costs. Moreover, the university itself offers a range of merit-based scholarships and awards to support high-achieving students, which are competitive and require an application process. Students are encouraged to apply early and provide documentation of academic excellence, motivation, and financial need where applicable.

Part-time work is another avenue for financing studies in Lausanne. The city’s vibrant economy and student-friendly environment enable students to find part-time employment, especially in academic, administrative, or hospitality sectors, subject to visa regulations for international students. International students from non-EU/EFTA countries should verify their visa conditions regarding work restrictions.

Students are also advised to explore external funding sources through private foundations, home country scholarships, or international organizations, which may offer financial support for studies abroad. It is important for students to plan their finances carefully, considering all potential sources of funding and expenses, and to keep abreast of application deadlines and eligibility requirements for scholarships and grants.

In summary, financing the Nuclear Engineering program involves a combination of tuition fees, living expenses, scholarships, grants, part-time work opportunities, and external funding sources. Early planning and proactive engagement with the university’s financial aid services can significantly ease the financial burden for students pursuing their studies at EPFL in Lausanne.

The Nuclear Engineering program at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) provides students with comprehensive education and training in the field of nuclear science and engineering. This programme covers fundamental principles of nuclear physics, reactor technology, radiation protection, nuclear materials, and reactor safety. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through laboratory work, simulations, and research projects. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for careers in the nuclear energy sector, research institutions, regulatory agencies, and industry. It emphasizes sustainable and safe application of nuclear technologies, with a focus on innovation and technological advancement. The program also explores emerging areas such as nuclear fusion, waste management, and the development of new reactor designs. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborate with leading researchers and industry partners. The programme encourages multidisciplinary approaches and fosters skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and technical communication. Graduates are equipped to contribute to the ongoing development of safer, more efficient nuclear systems and sustainable energy solutions globally. Courses are offered in both English and French, reflecting the university's bilingual environment. The duration of the programme typically spans three to four years, culminating in a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Nuclear Engineering. The institution supports student mobility and exchange programs, providing opportunities for international experience. Overall, the EPFL Nuclear Engineering programme aims to produce highly qualified professionals who can meet the demands of the evolving nuclear industry and contribute to energy security and environmental protection.

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