Nuclear Law Institute - Curriculum

Teaching Methodology

Drawing on modern teaching methods based on interaction and practice, the NLI provides a combination of "impulse" lectures covering the fundamentals of nuclear law; facilitated small-group (so-called "TOP") sessions focusing on the implementation of the information from the lectures; and a number of legislative drafting exercises.

An "impulse" lecture is a lecture lasting no longer than 30-35 minutes with strong key messages and a clear learning objective leading into smaller group sessions, so-called TOP Sessions.

TOP sessions are intended to give participants the opportunity to discuss in a structured manner the content of the lecture and relate it to their own experience and objectives.

In addition, Special Sessions allow participants to gain in-depth knowledge of topics of specific interest.

The NLI also includes the Issue Forum, a small-group legislative drafting exercise focusing on specific topics of nuclear law. The course concludes with a group presentation of the exercise results.

The learning process is complemented by printed and on-line material.

Programme

The NLI takes place over a two-week period and addresses the following aspects of nuclear law:

• Nuclear Safety (including transport of radioactive material)
• Nuclear Security
• Safeguards and Non-proliferation
• Nuclear Liability and Insurance

In addition, the following specific subjects are addressed in the context of Special Sessions:

• The Relationships between Environmental Law and Nuclear Law
• Nuclear Safety Culture
• Financial Aspects of Decommissioning
• Small and Medium Size Reactors
• Transparency and Stakeholder Involvement

Teaching Staff

All lectures and presentations are delivered by well-known experts from the IAEA and other institutions.