Abilene Christian University Launches First Nuclear Engineering Graduate Program

Abilene Christian University Establishes a Graduate Program in Nuclear Engineering

In a significant advancement for nuclear engineering education, Abilene Christian University (ACU) has appointed Dr. Mark DeHart from Idaho National Laboratory as the director of its newly established graduate program in nuclear science and engineering. This program will also incorporate the university's first Ph.D. offering, marking a pivotal step in enhancing advanced studies in this critical field.

Set to launch in either 2026 or 2027, this program is a part of ACU's Onstead College of Science and Engineering, and it aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills essential for a career in nuclear science. Dr. Charla Miertschin, the dean of the college, expressed enthusiasm about the program's launch, highlighting the increasing national interest in nuclear power and the timely construction permit recently granted for ACU's molten salt research reactor. This development positions the university to become a leader in nuclear research and education.

Dr. DeHart brings a wealth of experience to the role, having spent over 36 years in the nuclear engineering field, including significant tenures at Idaho National Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. He has a strong background in criticality safety and reactor physics, and he completed his doctoral research while working on significant projects in the industry, including the K-Reactor restart project at the Westinghouse Savannah River Company.

In leading this new program, DeHart aims to combine ACU's rigorous ABET-accredited engineering program and its established physics and chemistry programs. His leadership will focus on developing both the academic curriculum and the practical experiences required for the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers. Dr. DeHart expressed excitement about returning to Texas and launching this pioneering initiative at ACU, stating, "I am honored to join Abilene Christian University as the founding director of the nuclear science and engineering graduate program. This new chapter brings me back to Texas and offers the exciting opportunity to help launch ACU's first Ph.D. program."

Abilene Christian University, founded in 1906, serves a diverse student body of approximately 6,700 and is known for its emphasis on Christian service and leadership. With a commitment to academic excellence and innovative programs, ACU offers 87 undergraduate majors and numerous graduate studies. The addition of the nuclear science and engineering program promises to uphold the university's mission of preparing students for impactful careers in a variety of fields.

As DeHart leads the charge at ACU, the focus will be on marrying academic rigor with practical industry experience, ensuring that graduates not only understand nuclear science in theory but are also capable of applying this knowledge in real-world settings. With increasing technological advancements and interest in sustainable energy, the timing for such a program couldn’t be better, positioning ACU at the forefront of nuclear educational initiatives.

For more updates on ACU's Onstead College of Science and Engineering and the new nuclear engineering graduate program, visit ACU's official website.