What is Nuclear Engineering?

Nuclear engineering focuses on the safe, efficient and sustainable use of nuclear technologies for society’s benefit. It covers the full lifecycle of nuclear energy systems — from design and construction to operation, maintenance and responsible decommissioning — as well as the management of the complex technologies that support these systems.

Where is Nuclear Engineering headed?

Nuclear science may have historical roots in military programmes, but for many decades the global focus has shifted decisively toward peaceful applications — especially clean and dependable energy generation. Nuclear power is now recognised as a key contributor to low-carbon energy systems, energy security, industrial growth and sustainable development.

South Africa’s renewed commitment to expanding its nuclear energy capacity further strengthens the demand for engineers who can integrate technical excellence with technology management, regulatory understanding and long-term infrastructure planning. This includes expertise in safety culture, lifecycle management, systems engineering and the governance structures required to support major national nuclear initiatives.

Our Faculty plays an active national and international role in this space. We work closely with NECSA, South Africa’s leading nuclear science and technology organisation, on research, training and capability development. We also collaborate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) through expert missions, academic programmes and capacity-building initiatives that promote the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology.

To explore how nuclear engineering developed into a modern, strictly regulated field dedicated to peaceful energy production — and to learn more about the global frameworks that safeguard this mission — CLICK HERE to read about the history and evolution of Nuclear Engineering.

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