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Division Spotlight
Decommissioning & Environmental Sciences
The mission of the Decommissioning and Environmental Sciences (DES) Division is to promote the development and use of those skills and technologies associated with the use of nuclear energy and the optimal management and stewardship of the environment, sustainable development, decommissioning, remediation, reutilization, and long-term surveillance and maintenance of nuclear-related installations, and sites. The target audience for this effort is the membership of the Division, the Society, and the public at large.
Meeting Spotlight
Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
September 8–11, 2025
Atlanta, GA|Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Standards Program
The Standards Committee is responsible for the development and maintenance of voluntary consensus standards that address the design, analysis, and operation of components, systems, and facilities related to the application of nuclear science and technology. Find out What’s New, check out the Standards Store, or Get Involved today!
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Nuclear Science and Engineering
August 2025
Nuclear Technology
July 2025
Fusion Science and Technology
Latest News
Take steps on SNF and HLW disposal
Matt Bowen
With a new administration and Congress, it is time once again to ponder what will happen—if anything—on U.S. spent nuclear fuel and high-level waste management policy over the next few years. One element of the forthcoming discussion seems clear: The executive and legislative branches are eager to talk about recycling commercial SNF. Whatever the merits of doing so, it does not obviate the need for one or more facilities for disposal of remaining long-lived radionuclides. For that reason, making progress on U.S. disposal capabilities remains urgent, lest the associated radionuclide inventories simply be left for future generations to deal with.
In March, Rick Perry, who was secretary of energy during President Trump’s first administration, observed that during his tenure at the Department of Energy it became clear to him that any plan to move SNF “required some practical consent of the receiving state and local community.”1
Elevate your understanding of nuclear regulatory practices! This 16-hour, self-paced online course is designed to provide a deeper understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks governing the nuclear industry.
Buy Now
13 self-paced modules
40-question final exam, 120 minutes
Certificate of completion or participation
Federal Oversight Frameworks
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the Department of Energy (DOE) and Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) processes, their histories, and legal foundations.
Unique Industry History
Learn about the history, laws, and unique regulatory practices specific to the nuclear industry.
Workplace Relevance
Explore the intersection of daily operations and regulatory oversight, with real-world examples that illustrate why compliance matters.
Communication & Transparency
Understand the importance of public engagement and transparency in nuclear operations, from meeting requirements to public safety initiatives.
While maintenance workers may find parts of the course beneficial for career transitions, the course is best suited for individuals with prior experience in the nuclear field. The Licensing & Regulation course is $595 for ANS members and $795 for non-members.
Help prepare for the ANS Nuclear Licensing & Regulation Certificate Course exam by purchasing the practice exam. This optional resource provides detailed explanations and rationale for each question. This is a great way for you to test your knowledge and boost your confidence before taking the final exam!
Module 1: US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Module 2a: US Department of Energy
Module 2b: US Environmental Protection Agency
Module 3: Nuclear Regulatory Governance
Module 4: Types of NRC Licenses
Module 5: Safety Analysis Reports
Module 6: Technical Specification and Bases
Module 7: Licensing Change Processes
Module 8: Reactor Oversight Process
Module 9: Fuel Licensing Considerations
Module 10: Transportation
Module 11: Waste Management
Module 12: Decommissioning Regulations
Module 13: International Regulatory Framework