Nuclear Science
In this programme you will take part in a cutting edge research environment and apply your knowledge about nuclear science and radiation to a broad range of topics. Whether you want to work with medicine or with technology and development, a master’s in nuclear science will help you get there.
About the programme
Nuclear science concerns practical applications of nuclear reactions and radioactivity. This requires knowledge of the structure and properties of atomic nuclei, and how nuclei are transformed through reactions and radioactive decay. In this programme, you will learn basic nuclear physics and get an overview of the most important technological applications.
Nuclear power and medicine
The use of nuclear power as an energy source is constantly increasing worldwide, and nuclear power may become relevant for Norway in the future. Fission of uranium or thorium is an important technology that can help meet the growing energy demand with minimal emissions of greenhouse gases and use of land.
Scientists are constantly improving the design of nuclear reactors to increase safety and reduce the production of nuclear waste. You will learn about different types of nuclear reactors and how to simulate the processes in reactors with high precision. You also learn about nuclear fusion, where there have been exciting developments in recent years, and which could become a very important technology in the future.
Nuclear technology for medicine is another application of great importance to society. In this programme, you can participate in the development of new methods to treat cancer. Radioactive substances can be transported to a cancer to destroy the tumour from within. This requires interdisciplinary collaboration between physicists, chemists, pharmacists and medical scientists.
If you want to work with this technology, you can also choose to take courses in radiochemistry and radiopharmacy where you learn to handle radioactive substances in the laboratory. This gives you valuable knowledge about safety and radiation protection.
Choice of master's thesis and programme structure
The master's programme is a two-year full time study. You usually spend the first year on courses and the second year on working on your master's thesis.
The master's thesis may, for example, involve in-depth study of a technological application. With a relevant background, it may also be possible to complete your master's thesis outside UiO at a research institute or at selected companies and institutions, such as:
- Institute for Energy Technology (IFE)
- Norwegian Defense Research Establishment (FFI)
- Norwegian Nuclear Decommissioning (NND)
- Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA)
- Norwegian Medical Cyclotron Centre (NMS)
- Bayer AS
Our supervisors help you to put together a master's program adapted to your background and interests.
Study environment
It is important to us that you thrive as a master’s student in nuclear science. You will be closely integrated into a research group and work together with other students and academic staff. You will receive close follow-up from your supervisors and your research group. We do our best to create a good study environment, and many students and staff also meet socially outside the university.
Many students also get involved in the Physics Student Union, which organizes parties, meetings with companies, and social gatherings with quizzes. You can also choose between 200 other student unions at the university.
If you have any practical questions about your studies, or if you need guidance, please contact us.
Study abroad
We have thriving exchange agreements with many universities, and there are good opportunities to take part of your master’s studies abroad, for example in the USA, France, Sweden or Finland.
Career opportunities
All areas within nuclear science provide competence that is highly sought after in research, industry, and public enterprises.
Through this master's programme you will gain in-depth theoretical knowledge in addition to mastering practical experimental methods in the laboratory. You also learn programming and the use of advanced computer tools and instrumentation, which you can apply for the development of future technologies.