Nuclear scientist and nuclear engineer (integrated degree)
Level 6 · DegreeEngineering and manufacturing 3 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Nuclear scientists and nuclear engineers study the science and engineering of nuclear reactions, materials, and systems, applying their knowledge in power generation, defence, medicine, and research. This integrated degree apprenticeship leads to a BSc or MEng qualification alongside professional development in a nuclear organisation. Graduates are equipped for careers in reactor design, fuel cycle management, waste treatment, or nuclear security.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Nuclear physics, reactor theory, and radiation science
Nuclear materials behaviour and performance in reactor conditions
Safety case methodology and nuclear risk assessment
Engineering design and systems thinking in nuclear contexts
Nuclear regulation, licensing, and site safety requirements
Research methods and scientific data analysis
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Support design, analysis, or safety case work on nuclear systems
Carry out modelling and calculations for reactor or plant behaviour
Analyse experimental or plant data and draw technical conclusions
Prepare technical reports and present findings to colleagues
Engage with regulators, safety specialists, and operations teams
Contribute to research or engineering improvement projects
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 6 (Degree) - roughly Bachelor’s-degree level. Usually needs A-levels or a Level 3 qualification (employers set UCAS-point targets). You earn a full degree while you work - with no tuition fees to pay.
What’s next: Leads into professional roles, sometimes with a Level 7 (Master’s) apprenticeship after.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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