Diploma Program
UNENE Diploma in Nuclear Engineering
The UNENE Diploma offers graduate-level training for professionals seeking to broaden their nuclear engineering knowledge while working full-time. Delivered jointly by McMaster University and Ontario Tech University, the part-time program runs outside of working hours and can be completed in three years.
Students complete four UNENE courses, at least two core courses, earning a minimum grade of B- in each. The program blends theory and practice in:
Graduates gain expertise in at least two core disciplines plus two areas of specialization, applying this knowledge to the safe and efficient operation of nuclear power plants.
Program Structure:
Core Courses (minimum of 2 required):
UN502 – Nuclear Power Plant Systems & Operations
An in-depth look at plant systems, operations, and safety protocols.
UN802 - Nuclear Reactor Physics
Learn the fundamentals of nuclear reactor physics and CANDU design.
UN803 – Nuclear Reactor Safety Design
Study nuclear reactor safety design, analysis, and risk assessment.
UN804 - Nuclear Reactor Heat Transport System Design
Discover thermal-hydraulic design of nuclear reactors.
Elective Course Options:
UN501 Nuclear Fuel Management
Build core knowledge in nuclear reactor physics and CANDU design with applied problem-solving skills.
UN601 Control, Instrumentation and Electrical Systems
Understand control, instrumentation, & electrical systems in CANDU plants.
UN602 Nuclear Fuel Waste Management
Explore nuclear waste management strategies, from spent fuel storage to global approaches for disposal.
UN603 Project Management for Nuclear Engineers
Gain practical project management skills for engineering success.
UN701 Engineering Risk and Reliability
Explore risk and reliability analysis methods for nuclear safety systems through practical case studies.
UN805 Introduction to Operational Health Physics
Explore the fundamentals of radiation safety in nuclear, medical, and research settings.
UN806 Nuclear Fuel Engineering
Explore reactor fuel design, performance, and safety, with a focus on CANDU technology.
UN807 Power Plant Thermodynamics
Explore thermodynamics, heat removal, and turbine operation with a focus on CANDU plant performance.
UN808 Reactor Chemistry and Corrosion
Explore corrosion types, costs, testing, and prevention across industrial and nuclear environments.
UN901 Nuclear Materials
Understanding how extreme temperatures, stresses, and radiation shape the performance and design of reactor components.
Who’s it for:
Program delivery:
Apply through:
McMaster University
UNENE Administration: unene@mcmaster.ca, 905-525-9140 ext. 20168
Ontario Tech University
Graduate Admissions: gradadmissions@ontariotechu.ca & Graduate Program Assistant: grad.engineering@ontariotechu.ca
Tuition
Set by the university you register with; incidental fees vary.
Transfers
Delivery
Other helpful information...
Admissions
Find out how to apply to the UNENE M.Eng. program through one of our partner universities.
Student FAQs
Get answers to common questions about enrollment, schedules, and program requirements.
Courses
Explore our full list of graduate-level nuclear engineering courses and descriptions.
Course Calendar
Explore the UNENE Course Calendar to plan your learning schedule.