Oak Ridge National Laboratory
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Graduate students at Oak Ridge National Laboratory experience a unique blend of academic research and national laboratory culture. While maintaining enrollment at partner universities, students become integrated into ORNL's scientific community, participating in seminars, conferences, and collaborative research teams. The laboratory campus includes cafeterias, fitness facilities, and common spaces where researchers across disciplines interact. Regular colloquia feature leading scientists from around the world, providing exposure to cutting-edge research and networking opportunities. Research groups often include postdoctoral researchers and senior scientists alongside graduate students, creating mentorship-rich environments. Oak Ridge offers a small-town atmosphere with affordable living costs compared to major metropolitan areas. The nearby city of Knoxville, home to the University of Tennessee, provides additional amenities including cultural events, restaurants, and college town atmosphere. Students often maintain residences in Knoxville while commuting to ORNL. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies within an hour's drive, offering exceptional hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation. The region's moderate climate allows year-round outdoor activities. Knoxville's position along the Tennessee River provides water sports opportunities. Graduate student organizations at partner universities provide social connections and academic support. Many ORNL research groups organize social events and team-building activities. The relatively small graduate student population at ORNL fosters close-knit professional relationships that often continue throughout careers.
Location & Surroundings
Oak Ridge National Laboratory occupies a 4,400-acre campus in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, approximately 25 miles west of Knoxville. The laboratory's location in the Tennessee Valley combines natural beauty with excellent transportation access. Oak Ridge was built as a "Secret City" during World War II to house Manhattan Project workers. Today, it retains elements of that planned community character while having developed into a modern small city of approximately 30,000 residents. The city offers affordable housing, good schools, and a safe, family-friendly environment. Knoxville, with a metropolitan population exceeding 800,000, provides urban amenities within easy commuting distance. The University of Tennessee campus brings cultural events, college athletics, and a young population. Downtown Knoxville has experienced significant revitalization with restaurants, entertainment venues, and arts districts. The climate features four distinct seasons with mild winters, warm summers, and beautiful spring and fall periods. Temperatures rarely fall below freezing for extended periods in winter, while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s to low-90s Fahrenheit. The Great Smoky Mountains influence weather patterns, sometimes bringing increased rainfall. Transportation access includes Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport with connections to major hubs. Interstate 40 and Interstate 75 provide highway access to regional destinations. Most ORNL employees commute by car, though carpooling programs and some shuttle services exist.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Graduate students conducting research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory typically receive full funding through a combination of sources. University fellowships, research assistantships, and ORNL-funded positions support students throughout their programs. The cost of education is effectively covered for most doctoral students in STEM fields at partner universities. ORNL provides competitive stipends for Graduate Research Associates, typically ranging from $35,000-45,000 annually depending on experience and field. Housing in Oak Ridge and Knoxville is affordable by national standards, with one-bedroom apartments available for $800-1,200 monthly. The moderate cost of living allows students to live comfortably on research stipends. Living expenses in the Knoxville-Oak Ridge area require approximately $1,500-2,000 monthly beyond housing for food, transportation, utilities, and personal expenses. Most students maintain vehicles given limited public transportation, though ORNL provides some shuttle services. Career outcomes for ORNL-trained graduates are exceptional. Alumni pursue careers at national laboratories, research universities, technology companies, and government agencies. The laboratory's reputation and network of collaborators facilitate placement in competitive positions. Starting salaries for doctoral graduates in ORNL research areas typically range from $80,000-120,000 in national laboratory or industry positions. Academic positions offer competitive salaries plus research startup packages. Many graduates maintain ORNL collaborations throughout their careers, returning as visiting scientists or joint appointment holders.
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