Nuclear Career Accelerator Program (Spring)
Overview
The 11-week Nuclear Career Accelerator Program prepares mid-career engineers and technical professionals from the oil and gas, manufacturing, infrastructure, and other industries to transition seamlessly into high-demand nuclear roles.
The program provides learners with a robust set of technical skills aligned with market demands to prepare participants for career transitions into the nuclear sector. Job readiness is a core focus of the program with a comprehensive suite of optional career support services, which include 1:1 coaching.
This program ensures learners are job-ready to fill critical roles, reinforcing Canada’s leadership in clean energy and global nuclear innovation.
Courses have been developed in collaboration with leading industry experts and offer practical skills training and valuable industry insights. Learners will receive a University Certificate upon successful completion.
This program is eligible for OSAP for Micro-credentials.
Who should attend?
- Mid-career professionals seeking to transition into the nuclear industry using transferable skills from adjacent sectors.
- Professionals from engineering, energy, manufacturing, construction, operations, or project management backgrounds looking for a structured entry point into nuclear.
- Individuals already working in the nuclear sector who want to build a foundational, cross-functional understanding of systems, roles, and operations beyond their current department.
- Professionals seeking a strong foundation in nuclear systems, safety culture, and regulatory expectations before progressing into employer-specific or role-based training.
- Career changers and trained professionals aiming to position themselves for nuclear workforce opportunities.
What you'll learn
Learners will gain foundational knowledge of:
- Nuclear fundamentals: Participants gain a foundational understanding of nuclear science, including the physics and chemistry of nuclear reactions, the lifecycle of nuclear power generation, and isotope production.
- Regulatory and safety expertise: The program covers essential safety protocols, regulatory requirements, and risk mitigation strategies, ensuring participants understand how to navigate the stringent safety landscape of the nuclear sector.
- Integration of nuclear in energy systems: Participants learn how nuclear integrates into existing and expanded electricity grids, evaluating its pros, cons, and its relation to other energy sources.
- Operational proficiency: Participants study the operations of nuclear power plants, including major components, risk management practices, and maintenance strategies. Participants will also explore refurbishment and major component replacement efforts.
- Waste management and lifecycle assessment: Participants learn about the processes and labour practices for handling low, mid, intermediate, and high-level nuclear waste, as well as long-term disposal plans.
- Business delivery and project management: Participants learn about the economic and strategic aspects of expanding nuclear energy in Canada and internationally. Focused modules prepare participants for roles in project management and business delivery, including the rollout of SMRs and the refurbishment of existing facilities.
- Materials, fuels, and supply chains: Participants gain insight into nuclear materials, fuel cycles, and supply chain management to support operations and innovation in the industry.
- Community and stakeholder engagement: Participants explore the social license of nuclear energy, including consultation with Indigenous and local communities. This module will provide a historical and cultural context for the nuclear industry in Canada.
Micro-credentials
-
Nuclear Fundamentals (Core)
This course introduces the fundamental principles of nuclear engineering and their relevance to the Canadian nuclear power industry. Topics include the nature and types of radiation, radiation interaction with matter, decay processes, and impacts of radiation exposure to humans and the environment. The course also covers the basics of reactor core operations and nuclear power generation. Learners will explore real-world applications through problems, case studies and creative summative assessments, supported by a blend of self-paced learning experiences.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 10 to 15 hours.
-
Operations Overview (Core)
This course provides foundational knowledge about how nuclear power plants (NPP) operate. This includes information on key systems regarding their purpose, principal components, flow path, method of control, and how they integrate with overall plant operation. It will also identify the role of the operations organization and the principal positions within that organization including the skill sets of nuclear operators. Participants will engage with self-paced materials.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 10 to 15 hours.
-
Regulation and Safety (Core)
On successful completion of this course, the participant will have an understanding of the history, structure and approach to nuclear regulation in Canada. This foundational understanding will enable participants to search for and understand regulatory documents that apply to nuclear facilities. As part of the learning journey, participants will become familiar with the role of a licence to use nuclear substances in Canada and the processes that support the licence life cycle. The participant will be introduced to the expected attitudes and behaviours that are seen to be an essential part of being a nuclear professional and their role in establishing a healthy nuclear safety culture.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 10 to 15 hours.
-
Nuclear in Society (Core)
This course explores the intersection of organizational performance, workforce excellence, communications and relationship management in leveraging nuclear energy for societal benefit. Learners will investigate how corporate citizenship, effective public engagement, and collaboration contribute to building social license. Through real-world nuclear project scenarios and related theories, participants will examine how external feedback informs technical performance. When combined with transparent and open communications, this creates a virtuous cycle of two-way communication that strengthens trust and performance. Learners will apply these insights to strengthen their roles as nuclear professionals, leaders, and ambassadors.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 10 to 15 hours.
-
Life Cycle Assessment (Elective)
Learners will gain an understanding of the key concepts of life cycle assessment (LCA) and its practical applications within the nuclear sector. Participants will explore how LCA supports sustainability and informed decision-making. Through an examination of environmental impacts across the nuclear life cycle, participants will develop a foundational understanding of how LCA results can inform sustainability efforts in nuclear-related roles.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 5 to 7.5 hours.
-
Materials & Fuels (Elective)
This course introduces the basic concepts of materials science and the critical role material selection plays in nuclear reactors. Learners will also examine how some reactor types use natural uranium whilst others require enriched fuel. They will be able to distinguish between the types, suitability and manufacturing of materials and fuels used in nuclear reactors across Canada.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 5 to 7.5 hours.
-
Nuclear Supply Chain (Elective)
This course equips learners with the knowledge needed to pursue outward-facing roles within companies striving to enhance their relevance and revenue in Canada’s $20B nuclear supply chain. Participants will develop business acumen by learning about the market drivers, the engineering companies, constructors, suppliers, and subcontractors that collaborate within this dynamic market. Learners will apply their knowledge in a summative assignment that simulates developing strategic business partnerships in the nuclear industry.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 5 to 7.5 hours.
-
Nuclear Project Management Fundamentals (Elective)
This course introduces the protocols, concepts, and work methods required to execute tasks in a nuclear power environment. Learners will examine key topics including Nuclear Safety Culture, Radiation Protection (RP) Fundamentals, Security and Site Access, Regulatory and Legal Compliance, and Industrial Safety Awareness. The course culminates in a scenario-based assessment where students will apply their knowledge to the requirements for planning and executing project work during both outage and innage conditions.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 12 hours.
Note: Nuclear Project Management Fundamentals is considered equivalent to the Nuclear Project Management 1 micro-credential, the first of three micro-credentials that together form the Nuclear Project Management Micro-credential Program. Learners who have successfully completed the Nuclear Project Management Fundamentals course may apply this credit to the Nuclear Project Management Micro-credential Program as completion of Nuclear Project Management 1.
-
Next Generation Nuclear (Elective)
This course introduces learners to the cutting edge of nuclear technology through expert-led interviews focused on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and nuclear fusion. Each module features a recorded interview with a leading expert, supported by curated learning materials and interactive activities. This course offers timely insights into the technologies shaping the future of clean energy.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 5 to 7.5 hours.
-
Waste Management (Elective)
This course explores the fundamental elements of radioactive waste management. The topics include defining and classifying radioactive waste, identifying common sources of radioactive waste, understanding the basic methodologies needed to safely store and ultimately dispose of radioactive waste, as well as recognizing the socioeconomic and political aspects of radioactive waste. It also outlines the key role of radioactive waste management in the future of the nuclear industry.
The time commitment to complete this course is approximately 5 to 7.5 hours.
Program information
- Schedule
- Program structure
- Fees, discounts and registration
- Online delivery
- Policies
- Continuing Education Units
Spring 2026
| Nuclear Fundamentals | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
|---|---|---|
| Operations Overview | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
| Regulation and Safety | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
| Nuclear in Society | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
| Life Cycle Assessment | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
| Materials and Fuels | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
| Nuclear Supply Chain | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
| Nuclear Project Management Fundamentals | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
| Next Generation Nuclear | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
| Waste Management | Monday, April 20 to Friday, July 3, 2026 | midnight to 11:59 p.m. |
Self-directed and self-paced
This program is self-directed and self-paced.
Courses will be delivered fully online with no scheduled lectures. Learners must complete the courses independently within the given timeframe.
The program includes two categories of courses:- Core Courses: Four (4) mandatory courses that all learners must complete.
- Elective Courses: A minimum of three (3) electives is required to meet program certificate requirements. Learners may take additional electives if they wish.
The Nuclear Career Accelerator is an 11-week program. It requires a time commitment of approximately 10 to 15 hours per week for full-length courses and 5 to 7.5 hours per week for half-length courses.
Facilitator support
This offering is supported by facilitators who are available to answer learner inquiries and provide feedback on assessments. Learners will have two chances to successfully complete each assessment by the specified deadline(s), after receiving feedback from the facilitator.
Spring 2026
| Registration fee | Registration status |
|---|---|
| $2599 CAD + HST (regular) |
|
| NOTE: Individual course fees and registration dates vary. View the relevant course page for more information. | |
Discounts
The Alumni/Staff Discount applies to registration in this program/course.
If you are alumni or staff, contact continuouslearning@ontariotechu.ca with your Student/Banner ID before registering for details about how to apply this discount.
Registration
You can register for this course through the secure online registration form. All course fees must be paid at the time of registration.
Online delivery
This offering may include, but is not limited to:
- Content presentations and/or videos;
- Hands-on exercises;
- Case discussions and simulations;
- Individual work (assignments/quizzes);
- Concept and topic discussions; and
- Topic reflections.
This is an open enrolment offering.
Those completing Ontario Tech University Continuous Learning open enrolment offerings (e.g. certificate programs, courses, workshops, microcertifications, etc.) are subject to the policies of Ontario Tech University and Continuous Learning. Ontario Tech policies can be found in the Policy library. Continuous Learning policies can be found in the Regulations section of the Continuous Learning website. Specifically, those completing open enrolment offerings are expected to adhere to the General and Open enrolment regulations.
Ontario Tech University – Continuous Learning assigns Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to eligible offerings. CEUs are awarded under the Ontario Tech University – Continuous Learning (CL) Framework for Awarding Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and Professional Development Hours Reference Standards.
CEUs are provided to support professional development reporting. They do not constitute accreditation or certification by an external licensing or regulatory body. Recognition and acceptance of CEUs are determined solely by the policies of individual employers, professional associations, or professional regulatory organizations.
Requirements
- Admissions
- Program completion
- Technology requirements
- Micro-credentials and digital badges
- OSAP for micro-credentials
While open to all, this offering targets a cluster of engineering and technical roles that require overlapping technical and professional skill sets. Courses are specifically tailored to provide maximum benefits to both working professionals and individuals in career transition.
To successfully complete the program, you must:
- Register and make full payment for the program;
- Successfully complete all four (4) core courses within the program by the specified due date; and
- Successfully complete a minimum* of three (3) elective courses within the program by the specified due date.
*Learners may complete up to six (6) elective courses. All elective courses must be completed by the specified due date.
Learners will receive a University Certificate upon program completion. Certificate issuance is not automated, please allow for administrative processing.
In addition to receiving a University Certificate upon program completion, learners will also receive a digital badge for individual course completion (Core and Elective).
Please note: The program runs from April 20, 2026 to July 3, 2026; with registration remaining open until May 20, 2026. While late registration is available, learners must complete the program by the listed program end date, regardless of the date they registered.
Technology requirements
Online learning requirements:
- Computer or device with internet access
- Stable internet or data connection
- Microphone*
- Webcam*
- Audio device (examples: speakers, headphones/earbuds, headset)
*Optional
Material requirements
There are no additional materials required.
A micro-credential is a digitally-recorded recognition of a specific skill. It is a portable communication tool that represents evidence of your skills for employers, educators, and peers. Micro-credentials are created with industry, so you can be assured that the skills you are learning are in demand and current.
Learn more about micro-credentials and digital badges on the Learning Innovation website.
OSAP for Micro-credentials is available for eligible students taking a ministry-approved micro-credential that is less than 12 weeks. To be eligible for OSAP for Micro-credentials, a student must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a protected person; and, be a resident of Ontario. A step-by-step guide on how to apply for OSAP for Micro-credentials is available here.
For more information please visit the OSAP website at www.ontario.ca/OSAP.
Program add-ons
Optional add-on: career support services
Available to registrants of the 11-week Nuclear Career Accelerator Program, the career support services add-on features one-on-one career appointments and services designed to help you confidently navigate every step of your job search. This featured add-on is available in two select options — three months or six months of services.
Optional add-on: security clearance orientation
This module provides an introduction and awareness of security clearance in the Canadian nuclear sector. It is designed for individuals new to nuclear careers or unfamiliar with the role security clearance plays in regulated nuclear environments. The module explains why security clearance exists, how it supports safety, security, and public trust, and what it generally involves within Canada’s nuclear regulatory framework.
The content is intended to build awareness and perspective, rather than preparing learners to apply for a security clearance. It introduces common clearance terminology, outlines the types of information and checks typically involved, and clarifies the responsibilities associated with working in security-sensitive environments. This module does not replace employer-led clearance processes, nor does it assess eligibility or guarantee clearance outcomes. Instead, it helps learners develop an informed understanding of what security clearance is and why it is an essential requirement in the Canadian nuclear industry.
Who Should Take This Module
- Early-career and mid-career professionals transitioning into nuclear-adjacent roles.
- International students exploring career pathways in Canada’s nuclear sector.
- Immigrants and newcomers to Canada seeking to understand security and regulatory expectations in nuclear workplaces.
- Professionals from non-nuclear backgrounds who require awareness of nuclear security requirements.
- Learners and job seekers who want to understand clearance expectations before pursuing nuclear employment.
The module is particularly valuable for individuals with international education, work experience, or residency histories, as it provides clarity on how security clearance fits into Canada’s regulated nuclear environment.
Please note: Participation in the Nuclear Career Accelerator program and/or courses does not guarantee employment upon completion, as hiring decisions are made by individual employers. Some roles may require Site Access Security Clearance (SASC) and/or a Criminal Record Name Check (CRNC), depending on the employer and position. These requirements are determined by employer-specific processes in line with CNSC regulations.
