| Length | Start date | Led by | In partnership with |
| Four weeks | Tutor facilitation begins 3 August 2026 | School of Physics, Engineering and Technology |
FutureLearn |
Nuclear fusion has the potential to transform the way we generate energy, offering the promise of a low-carbon, sustainable power source inspired by the reactions that fuel the stars. On this course, you'll explore the science behind fusion energy, the technologies being developed to make it possible, and the challenges involved in bringing fusion power from the laboratory to the grid.
Key things you'll learn:
- The fundamental principles of nuclear fusion and plasma physics
- How fusion reactors work and the technologies enabling their development
- The role of superconductors and other advanced engineering innovations in fusion research
- The scientific and engineering challenges that must be overcome to deliver commercial fusion energy
- How scientists and engineers collaborate to develop future fusion power systems
- The growing fusion industry, STEM career opportunities, and the skills needed to work in the sector
- The potential role of fusion energy in creating a low-carbon, sustainable energy future
By the end of the course, you'll have a broad understanding of fusion energy, the technologies driving its development, and its potential role in meeting future global energy needs.
Guidance for York account holders enrolling on FutureLearn courses (PDF 
, 272kb)
You can join and access this course for free. You're also able to upgrade your FutureLearn account to a paid version for additional benefits (futurelearn.com).