Nuclear Applications (EMiNA)

Students acquire a wide-ranging, integrated knowledge and understanding of the scientific and technical fundamentals of nuclear technologies. They have at their disposal a critical understanding of the basic theories, principles and methods dealt with during their studies, and are in a position to broaden this knowledge independently.
Moreover, students gain the ability to collect and interpret data and use it to infer scientifically based judgements, as well as to implement appropriate solutions that take into account social, scientific and ethical issues, and to construct continuous learning processes independently. They learn how to formulate and defend opinions and solutions with reference to their specific field, to exchange information, ideas, problems and solutions with experts and laymen, and to work responsibly in modern professional life.
Our instruction methods include problem-based approaches and integrated team work. By taking modules in business and management, research planning and scientific writing, students obtain skills necessary for their future success.
Our modern, well-equipped labs play a major role in ensuring that students are later able to apply their knowledge to their chosen careers. Advanced students plan projects together, work towards a common goal and then present the results in a written report as well as to the class.
Topics include all modern applications of nuclear technologies. Students gain hands-on experience during the programme. Two independent projects are integrated to enable students to focus their studies further.
Study Focus:

• Nuclear Power and Fuel Cycle
• Nuclear Chemistry and Radiochemistry, Radiopharmacy
• Medical Physics Experts
• Radiation Safety

For more information see https://www.fh-aachen.de/en/course-of-study/nuclear-applications-msc/.

Educational organisation

Our programme uses a variety of methods to help students understand and apply information learned in the lectures, exercises, labs and seminars. Students also develop and carry out their own projects, and write and present papers on selected topics. Additional topics covered include business administration and ethical problems.
During the first semester, students focus on the fundamentals of nuclear sciences. In the second semester, students begin to focus on their specialisation and start their first research project. In the third semester, students learn to solve problems in their selected fields:

• Nuclear Engineering
• Nuclear Chemistry and Radiochemistry
• Medical Physics Experts

In the fourth semester, each student conducts research for a Master's thesis with our partners in research institutions, industry or in our own well-equipped laboratories.

Study abroad unit(s)

We strongly encourage German students to spend a semester abroad; however, due to visa restrictions, this is not always possible for international students. The best time to do this is after the first semester. Many activities are organised within the European University Network CHERNE, where one of the basic principles is the exchange of students and teachers. In addition, the FH Aachen has more than 100 partner universities.

Internships

Two integrated study projects in industry or at research institutions

Forms of assessment

There are three periods of written exams every year: February/March, July and September. Exams for block courses are at the end of each block. The degree programme concludes with a Master's thesis that the student must present and defend.

Course objectives

The four-semester European Master of Science in Nuclear Applications has a strong practical focus. The major focus of the programme is to prepare students for jobs in industry, hospitals and at public research institutions. About half of our graduates choose to continue their studies in a PhD programme.

Language requirements

Proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS Band 5.5, TOEFL IBT 68 (internet-based test), or German "Abitur" or "Fachhochschulreife" grade 3 in English, or equivalent
German is not required for admission.

Academic requirements

BSc, BSc (Hons), BEng, BTech, Dipl-Ing, Dipl-Ing FH, or equivalent in related fields with high academic standing

Enrolment fees

The student activity fee is currently about 250 EUR per semester.
Optional, but recommended German lessons cost about 300 EUR per semester, including books.

Costs of living

Approx. 700 EUR per month, including mandatory health insurance
The semester ticket (included in the student activity fee) includes free use of public transport in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Job opportunities

Applicants should not count on financing their stay in Jülich or Aachen by working part-time during their studies; however, some students are successful in finding part-time jobs either at the university or elsewhere.

Arrival support

Arrival assistance for international students

Services and support for international students

Assistance with cultural and social issues, as well as academic advice and tutoring are available.

Accommodation

Some students live in student dormitories. Other students generally live in shared apartments in which each student has his or her own room. Living areas, bathrooms and cooking facilities are shared. Furnished rooms start at about 225 EUR per month plus about 75 EUR per month for electricity, water and heating. Most rooms require the first month's rent and a security deposit of one to three months' rent in advance before you can move into the room. If the room is in a good condition when you move out, your security deposit will be returned.
International students can place their names on a waiting list for the student dormitories after they have arrived in Jülich and have enrolled.