Nuclear Engineering Technology (NET)
Associate of Applied Science Degree
Next entrance date: Fall 2015
Length of Program: 6 terms (2 years)
Total Credits: 65 (day-time, full-time only)
Campus: Augusta
Program Description
The Nuclear Engineering Technology (NET) Program is an innovative approach to addressing the nuclear industry's increasing need for a well-trained nuclear workforce. The program is a planned sequence of courses that meets the defined educational requirements of the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO) Uniform Curriculum Guide, a curriculum to standardize associate degree nuclear training across the nation.
Employment Opportunities
Graduates of the program are prepared for entry level positions in the nuclear field. The curriculum covers competencies in mechanical maintenance, instrumentation and control, electrical maintenance, and non-licensed operations.
While students have an opportunity to intern at Plant Vogtle, the program does not guarantee students a job. Like other fields, securing a career in nuclear is based on the individual’s personal, professional, and academic skills. Successful students must meet all of the industry’s new employee requirements and possess characteristics that are congruent with the industry’s needs, standards, and values.
Students need to be aware of the requirements for employment. In order to be granted unescorted access to the power plant and complete the internship, students need to pass a background check. See page 10 of this guide for the requirements at Southern Nuclear.
POSS/MASS Test
The POSS/MASS is an industry wide pre-employment test used to identify and assess a candidate's abilities and skills. All prospective nuclear employees must pass the POSS/MASS test at the nuclear-level. The NET program offers students preparation for the exam during their tenure in the program.
Nuclear Uniform Curriculum Program (NUCP) Certificate
Students who earn a “B” or better in the occupational courses (nuclear-specific) are eligible to earn an NUCP certificate. This certificate enables the holder to work at any nuclear installation in the country and gives them “edge” in the employment process.
For more information, visit http://www.nei.org/careersandeducation/nuclear-uniform-curriculum-program/.
Augusta Tech Website
http://www.augustatech.edu
NET Website
“Like” the NET Facebook Page
http://www.facebook.com/netprogram
Information Sessions – Fall 2015
Prospective NET students are strongly encouraged to attend an information session. Participants will learn more about the program, admissions process, career opportunities, and nuclear safety culture. Representatives from the college and Southern Nuclear will be present to answer questions.
**INFORMATION SESSION DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED***
Placement Rate
The NET program graduated its first class in April 2012. The NET program currently has a placement rate of over 80%. It is imperative prospective students understand the importance of the POSS/MASS
test and background check.
Contact Information
For Admissions/Information Session Information:
Natasha Poleate
Academic Advisor for Nuclear Technology Programs [email protected] | (706) 771-5703
For Advisement/Curriculum Information:
Robert Bob Collins
Department Head/Instructor
[email protected] | (706) 771-4094 Dr. Abdullah Kendoush
Instructor
[email protected] | (706) 771-4850
Curriculum Outline – Class of 2017
Year 1, Fall Semester
NUET 1000 Intro to Nuclear Industry 3
CHEM 1100 Nuclear Plant Chemistry 3
ECET 1101 Circuit Analysis I 3
MATH 1113 Pre-Calculus 3
Year 1, Spring Semester
ELECTIVE Social/Behavioral Science 3
ECET 2101 Circuit Analysis II/ Lab 4
PHYS 1111 Introduction to Physics 3
PHYS 1111L Introduction to Physics La 1
Year 1, Summer Semester
NUET 2020 Material Science 3
NUET 1170 Nuclear Plant Fundamentals – I 3
NUET 1220 DOE Nuclear Facilities Fundamentals 3 Year 2, Fall Semester
NUET 1250 Nuclear Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer 3
NUET 1180 Nuclear Plant Fundamentals- II 4
ICET 2010 Electromechanical Devices 4
NUET 1255 Radiation Protection and Instrum. 3 Year 2, Spring Semester
ICET 2020 Instrument Process and Mgmnt 4
ELECTIVE Humanities/Fine Arts 3
NUET 1260 Reactor Theory, Design, and Ops 4
NUET 1300 Reactor Protection and Safety 3
Note: A grade of “C” or higher is required for all courses in the program.
The information above can be found on page 96 of the course catalog. Detailed descriptions for each course are offered at the back of the catalog.
http://www.augustatech.edu/catalog/files/binder1.pdf
NET Admissions – Class of 2017
Based on industry needs, the NET program will now accept 40 students for Fall 2015. A group of alternates will be selected should space become available. The initial class of 40 students and subsequent group of alternates will be chosen on a first-come, first-qualified basis. Only those who complete all application requirements by the deadline will be considered for priority admission.
Important Dates
Summer 2015 Mandatory program orientation for accepted students. August 2015 Classes begin
Application Checklist – Current High School Seniors and GED Students
All applications must be received by February 1, 2015 in order to be considered for the priority deadline. Allow 1-2 weeks for materials to be received and processed prior to the deadline. A completed application will include the following:
_____ Application and $25 fee
_____ Current high school seniors need to mail their official high school transcript to the attention of Natasha Poleate. Accepted seniors are required to submit an additional official high school transcript with graduation date to Student Records after graduation.
ATTN: Natasha Poleate Building 600
3200 Augusta Tech Drive Augusta, GA 30906
_____ Meet or exceed minimum requirements for COMPASS, SAT, or college credit (see requirements below)
_____ Proof of Residency, as outlined on application
College Algebra Requirement
All accepted students must take college algebra prior to fall 2015. Current seniors who wish to take college algebra while in high school can contact Evett Davis, High School Coordinator, at (706) 771-4027 or [email protected]. Otherwise, students will be asked to take college algebra during summer 2015.
Minimum Placement Test/College Credit Requirements (one of the following):
COMPASS (taken during last 5 years): Reading – 79
Writing – 62 Math – 26 Algebra – 42
SAT (taken during last 5 years): Critical Reading – 480 Math – 440
* SAT scores can be sent to the Student Records office College credit:
College English – grade of “C” or better College Algebra – grade of “B” or better
Admissions for High School Graduates and Transfer Students
Application Checklist – High School Graduates and Transfer Students
All applications must be received by February 1, 2015 in order to be considered for the priority deadline. Allow 1-2 weeks for materials to be received and processed prior to the deadline. A completed application will include the following:
_____ Application and $25 fee
_____ Mail official high school transcript or GED scores to Student Records. If you have more than 30 hours of college credit or have earned your degree, you do not need to submit a high school transcript.
Student Records
3200 Augusta Tech Drive Augusta, GA 30906
_____ Students with college credit need to send all official college transcripts to Student Records.
_____ Meet or exceed minimum requirements for COMPASS, SAT, or college credit (see below for requirements)
_____ Proof of Residency, as outlined on application
College Algebra Requirement
All accepted students must take college algebra prior to fall 2015. Students without college algebra credit have the opportunity to take it during summer 2015.
Minimum Placement Test/College Credit Requirements (one of the following):
COMPASS (taken during last 5 years): Reading – 79
Writing – 62 Math – 26 Algebra – 42
SAT (taken during last 5 years): Critical Reading – 480 Math – 440
* SAT scores can be sent to the Student Records office College credit:
College English – grade of “C” or better College Algebra – grade of “B” or better
Admissions Resources
Admissions: http://www.augustatech.edu/application_deadline.html
Application: http://www.augustatech.edu/documents/application_for_admission.pdf Financial Aid: http://www.augustatech.edu/financial_aid_admissions.html
COMPASS Practice: http://www.act.org/compass/student/index.html Dual Enrollment:http://www.augustatech.edu/high_school.html Course Catalog: http://www.augustatech.edu/catalog/files/binder1.pdf
Tuition and Fees
Program Costs
Office Of Financial
Aid is in the 1300
building on the
Augusta Campus
Tuition and Fees
are due before
classes begin
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions:
Will my transfer credits count towards the completion of my degree?
Student Records in Building 1300 evaluates all transcripts. Once your official transcripts are received, Student Records will evaluate your transcript(s) and determine what courses transfer to Augusta Technical College.
How do I find out about financial aid?
Financial Aid is located in Building 1300 and is responsible for managing student aid. Visit the website for more information. Once you have applied for financial aid, you can track your status through your SmartWeb account.
How much does it cost to attend Augusta Technical College?
Attendance cost is determined by (1) the tuition/fees set by the institution and (2) the number of credits you take. Your total credit hours are determined by your transfer credits. These fees do not include books.
How do I pay my tuition and fees?
Once you’ve registered for classes, you can satisfy your tuition/fees through Student Accounts in Building 100. If you’re receiving financial aid, wait at least one business day before visiting Student Accounts. Once you’ve paid your tuition/fees, your enrollment will be secured and you will be given an official copy of your schedule.
I’m in high school but would like college credit. How can I do this?
Augusta Technical College offers high school students the opportunity to earn college credits while in high school. For more information, contact Evett Davis, High School Coordinator at (706) 771-4027 or [email protected].
Nuclear Career Information:
What is the difference between engineering and engineering technology?
Engineers require theoretical, scientific, and mathematical knowledge because they typically apply scientific concepts to develop solutions to real world problems. On the other hand, graduates of engineering technology programs implement designs created by engineers. This may include installing and maintaining products, testing products, calibrating, and supervising product operations.
What characteristics should a nuclear employee possess?
Propensity to stay focused and be constantly attentive
Ability to work in an environment of very rigid processes and adherence to procedures Solid analytical thinking and strong mechanical aptitude a must.
High degree of manual dexterity and mature judgment Strong safety awareness and adherence to safety practices Good communication skills
How can I learn more about the nuclear industry?
Check out the agencies below to find out more about the nuclear industry.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC): http://www.nrc.gov/ Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI): http://www.nei.org/
Department of Energy (DOE): http://energy.gov/
Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO): http://www.inpo.info/ Savannah River Site (SRS): http://www.srs.gov/general/srs-home.html Women in Nuclear (WiN): http://www.win-global.org/
http://www.winus.org/
How can I find out more about careers in the nuclear industry?
Check out the resources below to explore careers in the nuclear industry:
http://www.srscro.org/nuclear-workforce-initiative/career-planning/ http://www.getintoenergy.com/ http://www.aboutnuclear.org/ http://www.nei.org/careersandeducation/ http://www.navy.com/careers/nuclear-energy.html http://www.ans.org/pi/edu/students/careers/ http://www.southerncompany.com/careerinfo/ http://www.srs.gov/general/srs-home.html
What is the POSS/MASS test?
The POSS/MASS is an industry pre-employment test used to identify and assess a candidate's abilities and skills. All prospective nuclear employees must pass the POSS MASS test at the nuclear-level. The NET program offers students preparation for the exam.
NET Program:
What things should I consider before applying to the NET program?
Remember that NET is a full-time, day-time program. Depending on your circumstances, you need to consider whether you are able to commit the time and energy required to
successfully complete the program. Before applying, research the nuclear industry and make sure this field is right for you.
How long is the program?
NET is a day-time, 2-year program (6 terms).
Can I take any classes online?
There are no nuclear (ACAD-competency) courses offered online. All classes are lecture or lab type courses.
Are there scholarships available?
There are no scholarships currently available for students in the NET program. However, if you can find a scholarship outside the college that’s willing to fund your education, we encourage you to apply for it.
What are the requirements for employment with Southern Nuclear?
Note that this list is not exhaustive. Other requirements may apply. Students need to be very aware of these requirements prior to entering the program.
Education, NET degree preferred
Successfully complete POSS/MASS Testing
Valid driver’s license
May be required to maintain qualifications and on-call responsibilities in support of the plant Emergency Response Organization.
Obtain unescorted access, will be required to complete a Personal History
Questionnaire (PHQ) information from this form will be used to conduct an extensive background investigation as required by Title 10 of the code of Federal Regulations, verifying work and education history, a criminal background investigation and a drug and alcohol screen
It is unlikely you will be granted access if you…
o Had a positive drug or alcohol test within the past five years; o Used or possessed drugs in the past five years;
o Convicted of felony in the past five years; o Had recent misdemeanor convictions;
o Falsify or omit information or fail to fully cooperate during the investigation process.