At the Singapore Energy Lecture on Oct. 26, Minister for Energy and Trade and Industry Tan See Leng announced that the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) will launch a joint Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering. It is Singapore’s first postgraduate degree dedicated to nuclear engineering, and it signals a growing focus on nuclear expertise in Southeast Asia.

The programme consists of ten courses – six core subjects and four electives – that cover nuclear reactor technology, radiation protection, nuclear safety and radioactive waste management. By combining theory with specialised topics, the curriculum aims to equip graduates with the skills needed for a modern nuclear sector.

Students can study full‑time for one year or part‑time for two to three years, spending a semester at each university. The programme recommends a one‑ to two‑week overseas visit to a country with an established nuclear industry.

Applicants from quantitative disciplines are eligible even if they have no previous nuclear engineering experience. The first cohort is expected to enrol about 30 full‑time and part‑time students. Singapore is expanding its nuclear expertise without yet deciding to adopt nuclear power, hoping to create career paths in nuclear safety, research, regulation and energy planning across the region.

Because the degree builds a local talent pool, it could help Southeast Asian countries develop nuclear capabilities and meet future energy needs. In this way, the joint programme matters not only for education but also for the region’s energy future and job market.