University of Wyoming Introduces Nuclear Energy Certificate Programs

The University of Wyoming is launching new undergraduate and graduate certificate programs in nuclear energy, set to begin in Fall 2025, Wyoming News Now reports.

The programs aim to prepare students—particularly those pursuing technical degrees—for careers in the growing nuclear energy sector.

Developed through the School of Energy Resources and the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, the Nuclear Certificate Programs are a response to increased nuclear development activity within the state. One major driver is the planned TerraPower nuclear facility in Kemmerer, Wyoming.

“We’ve seen a spike in nuclear-related activity across Wyoming, and we want to make sure that Wyoming students are the ones filling those jobs,” said Caleb Hill, Co-Director of the Nuclear Energy Research Center (NERC). “The last thing I want to see is for this industry to fire up in the state and then import all of their employees from elsewhere.”

The certificates are designed primarily for students in technical and engineering fields, with core coursework covering foundational aspects of nuclear energy. Hill emphasized that the program is being offered as a certificate to provide students with a stand-alone credential that complements their degree.

While the structure of the program is still being finalized, Hill noted that long-term goals include expanding research opportunities, especially for graduate students, and increasing student involvement in nuclear-focused projects.

Enrollment for the certificate programs is already open, with courses expected to begin in the 2025 academic year.