Nuclear Power Technology

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WCJC’s Nuclear Power Technology Program is the only nuclear power program offered in the state of Texas and one of nine out of the United States. The program is based on the Uniform Curriculum Guide (ACAD 08-006) of the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (USA).  The WCJC Nuclear Power program has been recognized by IAEA as a ‘best practice’ program among two-year nuclear power technology training programs. Learn foundational skills from our experienced faculty and gain practical experience in reactor operations, radiation protection, and safety protocols using industry-standard facilities.

Program Details

Learn more about our Nuclear Power Technology program and find course descriptions in the WCJC Catalog.

A.A.S. Degree Academic Maps

Our Associate of Applied Science in Nuclear Power Technology program will provide you with the academic and technical knowledge needed to pursue a career in the nuclear/power generation industry. You can obtain only one A.A.S. degree in one of the four specialty areas:

  • Non-Licensed Operator Specialty
  • Electrical Technician Specialty
  • Instrumentation & Control Specialty
  • Mechanical Technician Specialty

Those enrolled in the A.A.S. degree program have nuclear coursework during the first two semesters. You must select a specialty track to complete the final two semesters of the program to meet the A.A.S. degree requirements.

Certificate Academic Maps

The nuclear power technology certificate programs fulfill the ACAD 08-006 requirements and prepare you with the fundamental engineering technology principles, mechatronics, and other technical skills necessary to support the maintenance and operational needs of electrical, instrumentation, control, and mechanical equipment. These skills are essential in various industries, such as power generation, chemical processing, and manufacturing. Here are the three certificates you can earn:

  • Non-Licensed Operator Level II Certificate
  • Instrumentation & Control Tech Level II Certificate 
  • Electrical Technician Level II Certificate
The certificates are standalone or may be used as specialty enhancements to existing related degrees: Nuclear Power Technology, Process Technology, Manufacturing Technology, or other A.A.S. degrees by providing you with more flexibility in your employment options.

Career Opportunities

After completing this program, you can pursue various career opportunities as a nuclear technician, radiation protection technician, or reactor operator. Find employment in nuclear power plants, research facilities, or government agencies or choose to continue your education and pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Learn more on Career Coach!

Learn by Doing

Nuclear Science Student

Find out why our Nuclear Power Technology program is a cut above the rest.

Future Nuclear Technicians

Get a firsthand look at our program through student experiences.
Class in a workshop
Learn from world-class instructors that have real experience in the field of nuclear power.
man in a workshop
Get hands-on experience as you learn the skills needed to succeed in the nuclear power industry.
instructor
Our instructors go above and beyond to ensure you feel prepared to enter the field.

Program Statistics

80%
of students completed the program in two years.
81%
job-placement employment rate for program graduates.
4
specialty tracks to choose from.

Meet Our Faculty

Reach out with any questions specific to the Nuclear Power Technology program.

Daniel Johnson

Program Director and Instructor of Nuclear Power Technology

Mr. Johnson is a U.S. Nuclear Navy Veteran with over 35 years of  experience working as an Instructor / Operator at STP Nuclear Power Plant.

Office: Bay City Campus, 102
Phone: (979) 244-7365
Email: johnsond@wcjc.edu

Roy Caruthers

Instructor of Nuclear Power Technology, Part-time

Mr. Caruthers received a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University of Texas and has over 17 years of experience at STP Nuclear Power Plant.

Email: caruthersr@wcjc.edu

Andrew Franklin

Instructor of Nuclear Power Technology, Part-time

Mr. Franklin is a retired USMC Veteran with over 30 years of experience working as a technician instructor with STP Nuclear Power Plant.

Email: franklina@wcjc.edu

Additional Program Information

Archived Administrative Master Syllabi

SCANS Matrix:

  • Alicia Chevis Human Resources, South Texas Project, Wadsworth, TX
  • Bobby Simpson Nuclear Training Manager, South Texas Project, Wadsworth, TX
  • Dr. John Poston Professor, College of Engineering, Texas A&M, College Station, TX
  • Valerie Segovia Director, Nuclear Power Institute, Texas A&M, College Station, TX
  • Henry Rudolph, Instructor, Wharton County Junior College, Bay City, TX
  • Richard Gammell, Training Supervisor, STP Nuclear, Bay City, TX

Non-Licensed Operator Specialty

Level II Certificate: 34 hours

  • Tuition/Fees In-District: $4,992
  • Tuition/Fees Out-District: $7,066

 AAS Degree: 60 hours – TRACK A

  • Tuition/Fees In-District: $8,620
  • Tuition/Fees Out-District: $12,280

Electrical Technician Specialty

Level II Certificate: 33 hours

  • Tuition/Fees In-District: $4,589
  • Tuition/Fees Out-District: $6,602

AAS Degree: 60 hours – TRACK B

  • Tuition/Fees In-District: $8,485
  • Tuition/Fees Out-District: $12,145

Instrumentation & Control Technician Specialty

Level II Certificate: 32 hours

  • Tuition/Fees In-District $4,451
  • Tuition/Fees Out-District $6,403

AAS Degree: 60 hours – TRACK C

  • Tuition/Fees In-District: $8,505
  • Tuition/Fees Out-District: $12,165

Mechanical Technician Specialty

AAS Degree: 60 hours – TRACK D

  • Tuition/Fees In-District: $8,690
  • Tuition/Fees Out-District: $12,250

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