Bachelor of Science - Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering - STEM

Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering is offered at one of the world’s leading universities in polymer science and plastics engineering, as recognized by the global ranking site EduRank. The Bachelor of Science in Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering builds a strong foundation in polymer chemistry, polymer physics, and polymer engineering, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as sustainability, processing, or biomaterials. The faculty are innovative and interactive, integrate real-world polymer design challenges into coursework, and conduct year-round research in state-of-the-art facilities. Research efforts focus on developing next-generation polymers for energy storage and harvesting, sustainable polymers derived from renewable resources, polymers for controlled drug release and biomedical applications, and polymeric materials inspired by natural systems. Students develop fundamental problem-solving skills, learn advanced analytical techniques, and engage in design work with access to more than 25 polymer-related research laboratories. Engineering faculty and students play a leading role in advancing new chemistry and processes that support a sustainable future. Undergraduate students may apply for the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU), a nine-week summer internship that provides hands-on participation in research activities. Practical, real-world experience is further supported through the university’s cooperative education and placement program, which offers professional work experience and competitive compensation. Student design teams, such as ChemE Car and the Engineering Service Design Team, provide opportunities to design and build products from the ground up, develop business plans, and strengthen presentation skills. Students may also participate in a variety of professional and academic organizations, including the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Engineering Student Council, Engineers for a Sustainable World, National Society of Black Engineers, Polymer Student Organization, Rubber Division ACS Student Chapter, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, Society of Sales Engineers, and Society of Women Engineers. Polymer science and engineering is a versatile field with applications across industries such as aerospace, electronics, medicine, petroleum, plastics, fibers, and rubber. Professionals in this field work at the intersection of chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering to develop material solutions to complex global challenges. Responsibilities include inventing new materials, optimizing processes, and modeling the physical behavior of macromolecules. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for chemists, materials scientists, and materials engineers is growing, with all of these roles attainable through a degree in polymer science and polymer engineering. Career Services supports students and alumni in exploring and achieving career goals by connecting them with employers for internships, cooperative education opportunities, and full-time positions. The cooperative education and placement program places students in engineering, polymer, and computing-related roles across a range of industries.