Ohio State University Added Nuclear Engineering Major
The institution established a new undergraduate degree program to support the growing nuclear energy workforce.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Nuclear
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Ohio State University has announced plans to launch an undergraduate nuclear engineering major by fall 2027. The program expansion is bolstered by $4.5 million in total funding, including significant contributions from the company Oklo.
Why it matters
The university aims to prepare a skilled workforce for a reviving nuclear power industry in Ohio, which is seeing renewed activity through initiatives like the energy project in Pike County. This educational growth aligns with increasing industrial demand for nuclear expertise.
The $4.5 million fund comprises a $2.5 million donation from Oklo, a $500,000 contribution from company leaders, and matching funds from the university. These resources are earmarked for scholarships and the renovation of existing facilities.
The players
Ohio State University
This is a public research university based in Columbus that offers a wide range of academic programs.
Oklo
This company develops advanced fission power plants and clean energy solutions.
Meta
This technology company owns several major social media platforms and operates large data centers.
The details
The undergraduate curriculum will build upon the university's established graduate and minor nuclear engineering programs. This initiative supports local industrial interests, including Oklo's collaboration with Meta to power data centers in New Albany.
Timeline
The Pike County uranium enrichment plant closed in 2001.
Ohio State University announced the major on October 9, 2026.
The undergraduate major is scheduled to launch in fall 2027.
The Big Picture
The university's workforce development efforts follow the long-term decommissioning and planned reactivation of the Pike County uranium enrichment plant. This educational expansion marks a strategic pivot to support a resurgent local nuclear power sector.
The development of this major aims to create a pipeline of graduates for high-tech roles in the regional energy sector, including at sites like the Pike County facility. The initiative is expected to help support the projected creation of over 2,000 jobs in the area.
The takeaway
The move demonstrates a direct link between private industrial investment and public university curriculum development. Students interested in the energy sector should monitor trustee updates as the program approaches its projected 2027 start date.
What happens next
The university program must receive official approval from university trustees before the planned launch in the fall of 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in Nuclear technology.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NBC4i.
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