Polymer Science and Engineering - Master's and Doctorate

Why choose Polymer Science and Engineering?

Polymer science and engineering is a multidisciplinary applied science field. The graduate programs focus on providing a foundation in three primary areas of polymer synthetic chemistry, polymer physical chemistry, and polymer engineering through core coursework. Beyond the coursework, students work closely with faculty mentors on sponsored research projects to prepare them for exceptional careers in industrial, government, or academic positions.

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What Will I Learn?

You will acquire knowledge through coursework, seminars, close interactions with faculty members, and primarily through conducting world-class polymer research. With a diverse faculty and research emphases, students have several fields of study from which to choose. In all cases, you will learn to approach and execute a research program in order to advance current understanding and future technology.

Many students participate in internships while pursuing their graduate degree. Typically these internships are a result of collaborative projects between the internship sponsor and advisor, so they are closely (if not directly) related to the student's research.  Other internships are the result of specific fellowship awards available to students.

Internationally Recognized Faculty Mentors

Each faculty member of the School of Polymer Science and Engineering has developed an innovative and vigorous research program that attracts governmental and industrial funding. Students will learn to approach and execute a research program with chosen faculty mentors on projects that range from fundamental science to applied, industrially sponsored projects.

The graduate programs in the School of Polymer Science and Engineering are focused on learning to develop and execute high level research. Each student will develop a thesis or dissertation project under the direction of their selected research advisor and mentor. This project will not only lead to a degree but scholarly publications and presentations.

To learn more about the different areas of research being conducted by our faculty and current students, please see the individual faculty pages of the School of Polymer Science and Engineering.

Applying to the Program

Admission to the School of Polymer Science and Engineering is extremely competitive and limited. Given the inherent diversity of our School, we recruit students from a variety of disciplines. Typical backgrounds include chemistry and biochemistry, biology, polymer science or engineering, plastics engineering, physics, chemical engineering, and mathematics.

Admission is typically granted for the Fall term, although Spring admission is possible. For full consideration for the Fall semester, applicants are encouraged to submit a complete application by the priority deadline of December 15. 

The application packet should include three letters of recommendation from references who are familiar with your work in polymers or related discipline, a letter of intent describing your career ambitions and research interests, and all transcripts.  Note that GRE scores are no longer required for admission.

For more information, please contact us!

Graduate Recruiting Contact:
Professor Zhe Qiang

Availability