Nuclear
Building Canada's nuclear workforce and advancing energy solutions
Canada’s nuclear future depends on skilled people, proven systems and rigorous training. As Canada’s Nuclear Training Ground, we prepare talent and advance technologies that support a secure and reliable energy system, from small modular reactors to medical isotopes used in cancer treatment.
Educating talent. Advancing technology
We prepare students and industry professionals to work across the nuclear sector in roles that demand technical expertise, accountability and experience. Through collaboration with industry, community, academic and government partners, this supports safe operations, workforce readiness and responsible nuclear development.
Canada's Nuclear Training Ground: Entry to expert
We develop nuclear talent at every stage from undergraduate study to professional upskilling. Hands-on learning and strong industry partnerships ensure learners gain practical experience aligned with the needs of Canada's nuclear sector, now and into the future.
- We are the only university in Canada with an accredited Nuclear Engineering undergraduate program, preparing graduates to enter the field as nuclear engineers.
- We support communities and industry through education on nuclear energy, including system operations, career pathways, technical projects and waste management.
- Our 11-week Nuclear Career Accelerator delivers training, industry-relevant technical skills, career coaching and job placement support to prepare participants for high-demand roles in the sector.
Centre for Small Modular Reactors (CfSMR)
Canada’s expanding small modular reactor sector requires engineers with industry-ready skills. We prepare graduates to contribute to the SMR workforce through accredited education, hands-on training and applied research.
This is strengthened by our Centre for Small Modular Reactors (CfSMR), which supports SMR development through industry-aligned research and collaboration. With expertise spanning naval nuclear propulsion and SMR start-ups, the centre contributes across the SMR lifecycle, including design, manufacturing, operation and decommissioning.
The nuclear learning experience
Nuclear programs are supported by modern facilities and specialized laboratories that strengthen learning, including:
- Corrosion and Electrochemistry Laboratory
- Energy Systems and Nuclear Science Research Centre
- Environmental Radiation Laboratory
- High-Performance Computing and Visualization Laboratory
- Nuclear Simulation Laboratory
- Radiation Protection Laboratory
- Scientific Instrumentation Laboratory
Canada's most advanced nuclear simulation training
The Nuclear Engineering program includes one of the most extensive nuclear power plant simulation environments in Canada. Students train using a virtual CANDU 9 nuclear power plant simulator, a full-scope digital environment that reflects real-world reactor operations.
The university also supports specialized professional training through access to advanced simulation environments used by industry, including Ontario Power Generation’s off-site full-scope simulators.
Exploring future nuclear capabilities
Work is underway to explore opportunities to enhance nuclear teaching and research infrastructure, including a proposed subcritical assembly. This type of facility would support hands-on learning, training and research, though it remains in early stages and subject to regulatory approval.
Learn more about the proposed subcritical assembly.
Isotopes and nuclear medicine
CANDU technology plays a significant role in producing medical isotopes used in cancer treatments and the sterilization of medical devices. Education in this area supports understanding of nuclear applications in health and industry.
International nuclear expertise
Our expert team includes Canada Research Chairs and faculty affiliated with the University Network of Excellence in Nuclear Engineering and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
Graduate programs, including the UNENE-affiliated diploma and master’s pathways, are among the few of their kind in Canada and support advanced training and workforce development across the nuclear sector.
Real experience, real connections
Our students apply their learning through co-ops, internships and capstone projects that tackle real industry challenges. They work with faculty and industry partners to build skills, expand their networks and prepare for successful careers.