Open to engineering, physics and chemistry majors, the new Nuclear Engineering Minor explores topics including nuclear reactors, radiation protection, nuclear medicine, nuclear power systems and nuclear security.
The University of Texas at Austin's Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering launched its Nuclear Engineering Minor in Fall 2026, welcoming 12 students in the program's inaugural semester. Open to engineering, physics and chemistry majors, the minor is designed to help meet growing demand for nuclear engineers and researchers in Texas and beyond.
“We built this minor in response to student demand and to support the state’s expanding nuclear ecosystem,” said Derek Haas, NRE area coordinator and associate professor. “This inaugural cohort reflects the growing student interest in UT’s nuclear engineering program.”
In the minor, students explore topics including nuclear reactors, radiation protection, nuclear medicine, nuclear power systems and nuclear security. These fundamental concepts prepare students for careers across the nuclear sector.
The minor requires 15 credit hours—or five courses—in nuclear engineering, including a three-credit-hour introductory concepts course. Students can apply through the Minor Inventory System and by completing the departmental application.
Visit the Nuclear Engineering Minor webpage to learn more.
