Knowledge of nuclear science is increasingly important across diverse fields, from pure scientific endeavours through to medical physics, industrial processes, mining, security, defence and policy development. The Australian National University is the only university in Australia that offers postgraduate education in nuclear science and is the ideal location to pursue an advanced degree in this growing field.

Over two years, you will study the fundamentals and applications of nuclear science, including materials analysis, dating techniques, nuclear medicine, and nuclear energy. The degree is a mix of coursework and projects, comprising individual and group-based research. You will develop the scientific background you need for informed debate on nuclear issues, without advocating a particular position.

You will have access to the cutting-edge equipment in the laboratories of the Australian Heavy Ion Accelerator Facility, with many opportunities to undertake laboratory-based training, as well as access to academics who are at the forefront of research in basic and applied nuclear science. Some examples of where our graduates have found themselves include: research roles, both fundamental (university) and applied (medical/industrial); regulatory roles in the commercial (mining) and government (radiation protection, customs, security) sectors; and analyst and policy roles in government. Our graduates occupy senior roles across a range of private companies and government departments.

Graduates from ANU have been rated as Australia's most employable graduates and among the most sought after by employers worldwide.

The latest Global Employability University Ranking, published by the Times Higher Education, rated ANU as Australia's top university for getting a job for the fourth year in a row.

Learning Outcomes

1. demonstrate high-level knowledge of nuclear science concepts
2. apply knowledge of nuclear science to new problems;
3. interpret, synthesize and critically analyse published literature of relevance to nuclear science;
4. demonstrate theoretical and practical skills relevant to techniques and research methodology in nuclear science;
5. critically analyse nuclear systems and nuclear data to reach independent conclusions;
6. demonstrate a critical understanding of science in society;
7. clearly communicate theory and results in both written and oral formats.