NC State Students Operate Campus Nuclear Reactor

Students train on the university's one-megawatt reactor to gain real-world experience in nuclear physics and thermal dynamics.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Nuclear

Industrial stainless-steel coolant pipes and concrete infrastructure in a research laboratory setting. — NC State students use the university's one-megawatt PULSTAR nuclear reactor to gain practical experience in nuclear physics and thermal dynamics training. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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NC State students operate the PULSTAR nuclear reactor at the Burlington Laboratory for research and training purposes. The facility serves as a critical educational hub that teaches students essential physics and thermal dynamics principles.

Why it matters

Hands-on experience with an active reactor prepares students for careers in the nuclear energy sector by bridging the gap between classroom theory and practical operation. The rigorous training program ensures graduates are ready for complex industry demands.

The PULSTAR reactor generates one megawatt of energy, significantly less than the 900 megawatts produced by the Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant. In 2025, the facility hosted over 1,800 visitors while maintaining a 100% pass rate on NRC exams in 2026.

The players

NC State

This is a major public research university located in Raleigh, North Carolina, known for its engineering and nuclear energy programs.

Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant

This is a large-scale commercial power facility located in New Hill, North Carolina, that provides significant regional energy production.

The details

Students enrolled in the NE 235 course learn reactor fundamentals before moving to a semester of weekly training to obtain NRC licensing. The reactor operates on the Raleigh campus during the work week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The university first installed a campus teaching reactor in 1950.
The facility welcomed more than 1,800 visitors during 2025.
Students achieved a 100% pass rate on the NRC exam in 2026.

Deeper Dive

This facility maintains the legacy established by the first reactor put on a college campus for teaching in 1950. Its continued operation reflects a commitment to specialized nuclear research that predates modern commercial power infrastructure.

The reactor provides a rare opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience, which can lead to higher employment success in the energy sector. Local residents and visitors can schedule tours to see how this technology supports regional educational goals.

The takeaway

Hands-on training remains the gold standard for developing the next generation of nuclear energy professionals. Students interested in this path should prioritize programs that offer direct access to operational, license-grade technology.