• Options available for both graduate and undergraduate students this fall

The University of Wyoming (UW) is set to enhance its educational offerings with the introduction of new nuclear energy certificates for both undergraduate and graduate students, aimed at preparing them for careers in the growing nuclear energy industry. These programs, approved by the UW Board of Trustees during the November meeting, will commence this fall.

Chad Baldwin, emphasized the significance of the program on the Weekday Wake-Up by stating, “Both graduate and undergraduate students can get a certificate now in nuclear energy science and technology.” He explained that the certificate consists of 15 credit hours and is typically completed over two academic years, conducted in person.

The initiative has gained momentum due to a strong interest from UW students in nuclear energy, as noted by SER Academic Director Kami Danaei in a press release. She expressed excitement about enrolling students in this program, which will enhance their degrees and improve their competitiveness in the field. The collaborative efforts between SER, the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, and the Nuclear Energy Research Center (NERC) have been pivotal in launching these certificates, which received final approval from the Higher Learning Commission earlier this month.

Baldwin highlighted the credentials’ value, stating, “A certificate is adding a credential to your degree and that credential represents lots of knowledge and experience that’s going to help you either enter that field or advance in it.” This program not only aims to support students in entering the nuclear energy sector but also assists those transitioning from other careers.Baldwin highlighted the value of the credentials, stating that obtaining a certificate adds significant knowledge and experience that can help students enter or advance in the nuclear energy field, or even transition from different careers.

Caleb Hill, co-director of NERC, explained that a key goal of the center is to enhance capacity across the university by connecting faculty, offering new courses, and establishing core facilities. He believes these certificates will enable students to build networks and gain valuable experience in nuclear energy.

The interdisciplinary nature of the certificates is particularly noteworthy, as they combine technical courses with subjects such as nuclear law and energy communications. Tara Righetti, co-director of NERC, emphasized the importance of aligning educational programs with industry needs, describing the certificates as a significant step toward preparing UW graduates for the nuclear workforce.

As Wyoming experiences emerging career opportunities in nuclear energy, these new credentials aim to retain top talent while providing students with meaningful employment prospects. For more information about the certification program or to apply, students are encouraged to contact academic advisers or visit the university’s website.