Foundations of Naval Propulsion Reactors, Nuclear Weapons and Nonproliferation

$149

Online - self-paced

11 hours to complete

Overview

Dive into the core concepts of nuclear naval propulsion, reactor design, and nonproliferation in this intermediate course. You'll explore the evolution of nuclear-powered ships, compare power and naval reactors, and examine the intersection of nuclear technology with international security. Learners will gain both historical and technical insights into nuclear energy systems and nuclear weapons.

Key Benefits:

  • Learn key components of naval nuclear reactors
  • Understand fuel use and thermal efficiency
  • Compare power vs. production reactors
  • Interpret nuclear weapon effects and history
  • Analyze nonproliferation and HEU loopholes

What’s Included:

  • Interactive modules on naval and commercial reactors
  • Exercises calculating reactor performance metrics
  • Case studies on Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and the Vela Incident
  • Quizzes on nonproliferation and IAEA regulations
  • Visual diagrams of PWR and NSSS systems

This course empowers learners with both technical and geopolitical nuclear knowledge.

Course Modules

In this opening module, you'll explore how nuclear science powers ships by tracing the historical development from USS Nautilus to NS Savannah. You'll gain insight into pressurized water reactor (PWR) design and function, examining coolant systems, containment vessels, and control mechanisms. You'll also learn fundamentals of nuclear system efficiency and fuel requirements for naval applications.

Who this course is designed for

  • Engineering or physics students interested in nuclear applications
  • Military professionals seeking deeper understanding of naval reactors
  • Policy analysts focused on nuclear energy and security
  • Energy sector workers transitioning to nuclear-related roles
  • Learners aiming for careers in nuclear safety or international security

 

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:

  • Identify components and control mechanisms of pressurized water reactors
  • Calculate fuel usage, thermal performance, and temperature rise in reactors
  • Compare naval and civilian reactor designs and shielding
  • Describe radiation doses, nuclear weapon types, and major weapon effects
  • Understand the purpose and challenges of the Nonproliferation Treaty
  • Select and justify detection methods for nuclear weapon materials

Practical skills you will develop

This program equips learners with vital skills to thrive in today's complex workforce. Key skills include:

Nuclear safety
Nuclear power
Thermal efficiency
Nuclear instrumentation

These skills directly apply to these careers

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

Implements and oversees radiation protection programs, ensuring compliance with NRC regulations and safety standards.

Median Salary: $83,910

Computer Systems Analyst

Study an organization's current computer systems and procedures and design information systems solutions to help the organization operate more efficiently and effectively.

Median Salary: $102,240

Program support

Contact
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