Nuclear Propulsion
The course is an introduction to the anatomy of subsea nuclear propulsion. The focus is on operational and design considerations, with safety at the forefront.

Enrol
2 days
In-Person
UNSW Canberra City Campus
$2,200.00
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Overview
This short course provides you with an awareness of the crucial role of nuclear power in today’s undersea navies, examines the operational aspects and advantages of nuclear submarines, enables participants to understand reactor design and operational concepts, and provides a comparison of naval and land-based reactors.
The course is an introduction to the anatomy of subsea nuclear propulsion. The focus is on operational and design considerations, with safety at the forefront.
Course content
This course is broken into the following core learning topics:
- Nuclear fundamentals
- Reactor theory
- Radiation safety
- Power plant propulsion
- Operational considerations
Learning outcomes
By completing this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the nuclear fission process, including key terms and concepts (criticality, fission products, etc.)
- Explain nuclear safety and how reactor power is controlled
- Analyse fuel considerations (High Enriched Uranium (HEU), focusing on properties, safety features, etc.
- Investigate the safety aspects of nuclear submarine operations
- Analyse capabilities and limitations of a modern nuclear-propelled submarine
Who should attend
The course is tailored to those who want to prepare for the future, including moving from Collins class diesel boats to nuclear propelled submarines. This course is aimed at working professionals who are looking to stay updated on developments or anyone involved or interested in Australia’s participation in AUKUS. Course content is not classified.
Facilitator
Jack Dillich
Jack holds an advanced degree in Nuclear Engineering. He has decades of experience in nuclear power, nuclear propulsion and research reactors.
Cancellation policy
Courses will be held subject to sufficient registrations. UNSW Canberra reserves the right to cancel a course up to five working days prior to commencement of the course. If a course is cancelled, you will have the opportunity to transfer your registration or be issued a full refund. If registrant cancels within 10 days of course commencement, a 50% registration fee will apply. UNSW Canberra is a registered ACT provider under ESOS Act 2000-CRICOS provider Code 00098G.