A Career In The Field Of Atomic Energy After 12th: The Pathway

The modern era is the era of technology and innovation, the immense development in science and technology has given birth to many new career paths. One such is a career in the field of atomic energy. Before heading towards our discussion, let's have a brief idea about what is atomic energy? Atomic energy is also known as nuclear energy is the energy present inside an atom. 

Overview

A most prominent career in the field of nuclear energy after 12th is to pursue  B.Tech in Nuclear Science and Engineering/ Nuclear Engineering. In this article, you will get an overview of the Nuclear Engineer profile, how to pursue the same, educational requirements, future scope, and all other necessary data. So let's start the discussion. 

Nuclear Science Engineering, as the name signifies, studies the science behind nuclear energy. The working domain of a nuclear engineer is usually research and development in the field of nuclear radiation and energy for the development of some beneficial systems, instruments, etc. Apart from Engineering and Technology, Nuclear Science finds its application in the medical field as well.

Nuclear Science and Engineering is a combination of nuclear physics and radiation science, which implies that nuclear Science Engineering also works for the improvement in the area of radioactive material, its application, handling, and safe disposal of radioactive waste.

Eligibility criteria

An aspirant who wishes to become a nuclear Science engineer should have qualified 10+2 in the science(Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics as the principal subjects) stream from a recognized institutional board; with a minimum aggregate score of 50%.  
The aspirants who fulfill the above criteria would further have to qualify JEE exam to get entrance at the chosen colleges. Apart from the JEE exam, some institutes also conduct their screening test. Candidates can choose either of the two.
B.Tech in Nuclear Engineering is a Four- year course with a total of 8 semesters(2 semesters each year).  

Below is the list of some of the colleges/institutes in India offering B. Tech in the field of Nuclear Science and Engineering.

Future scope, job, and higher studies

Nuclear engineers find career opportunities as engineers as well as researchers in Nuclear Reactors, researchers in Nuclear Power Plants, and in the development organizations.
They find job opportunities in both the private and government sector.
A Nuclear engineer after successfully completing the degree starts his/her career with a monthly salary of INR 20,000- 45,000.
Various government organizations such as BARC, ISRO, DRDO, NPCIL, and more recruits Nuclear engineers for the scientist and Engineer designation. With a monthly salary ranging from INR 25,000-INR 45,000.
After successful completion of BE/B. Tech on can also opt for the GATE exam for higher studies (ME) in the respective field, and join as lecturers/professors in colleges/universities/research institutes and contribute to the area of nuclear research.
Apart from being high-paid professions, receiving excellent work profile, a fabulous salary, a Nuclear Engineer also faces extreme risks of being exposed to nuclear radiations which are harmful. 

Written by Usha Saha

Also Read:

• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai

• Bachelor of Science (Atomic Force Microscopy)