ASU’s nuclear science program receives positive response
The Department of Chemistry and Physics at Augusta State University kicked off its new nuclear science program this semester with 19 enrolled students.
According to ASU nuclear science professor Joseph Newton, students have shown an overwhelming interest in the university’s new program and many are pleased at how ASU is now offering instruction in more specific areas of science.
“There is such a high demand for help in the nuclear science workforce, and ASU is taking steps to meet those needs,” said Newton. “We are pleased at how we can provide our students with the hands-on training they need to prepare them for their future careers in this particular field of science,” said Newton.
“Only students majoring in physics or chemistry can take part in the department’s nuclear science program,” said Newton. The track includes courses such as Introduction to Nuclear Science and Applications of Nuclear Science, a course highlighting nuclear medicine, effects of radiation, and other aspects of nuclear science. In the course Introduction to Nuclear measurements students will receive hands-on experience with radiation shielding, spectroscopy, and Compton scattering research in the university’s state-of-the art nuclear science laboratory.
Newton says students enrolled in the nuclear science program also will be required to take advanced courses in chemistry, physics, and nuclear science.
ASU physics major Chris Sailors is one of the students enrolled in the new program.
“The instructors at ASU really listen to the needs of their students, and they saw how so many of us had an interest in nuclear science,” said Sailors. “This program is proof that our university will do what is necessary to give students the opportunities they need to become well equipped for their future careers.”
In an effort to assist students in reaching academic success, Newton says the department is now offering $1,800 nuclear science scholarships each semester to students who demonstrate an interest in nuclear science.
