Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering

Get your degree at the top university in the world for polymer science and plastics engineering according to global ranking site EduRank. The Bachelor of Science Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering program builds a strong foundation in polymer chemistry, polymer physics, and polymer engineering with opportunities to specialize in sustainability, processing, or biomaterials.  

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Our faculty

  • are innovative and interactive
  • incorporate real polymer design challenges into courses
  • conduct research year-round in state-of-the-art facilities

Akron Advantage

Hands-on Research

Our researchers are developing the next generation of polymers for energy storage and harvesting; polymers using sustainable resources; polymers for controlled drug release and biomedical applications; and polymeric materials inspired by natural materials. Students will build fundamental problem-solving skills and learn analytical techniques and design with access to the University’s 25 polymer-related research labs. Engineering faculty and students are leading the effort in developing new chemistry and processes for our sustainable future.

Students can apply to the Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) opportunity, a 9-week summer internship where students participate in research activities.

Real world experience

Gain important practical professional experience through our famed Co-op and Placement Program. As an added benefit, you’ll earn a competitive salary. Student design teams, like ChemE car or the Engineering Service Design Team provide opportunities to design and build products from scratch, develop business plans, and sharpen presentation skills.

Student Organizations

  • American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
  • 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
  • Society of Women Engineers

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For More Information:

College of Engineering and Polymer Science

Contact: Dr. Joan Carletta

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Career Opportunities

Polymer science and engineering is a versatile field of study. Polymers are used in industries ranging from aerospace to electronics, medicine, petroleum, plastics, fibers and rubber. Polymer scientists and engineers work at the intersection of chemistry, physics, biology and engineering to develop material solutions to some of the world’s most challenging problems. They invent new materials, optimize processes, and model the physical behavior of macromolecules. 

Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the demand for chemists, materials scientists, and materials engineers are growing – all positions attainable with a degree in polymer science and polymer engineering.    

Career Services

Career Services helps students and alumni explore and reach career goals. They connect students to employers for internships, jobs, and careers. Also available is our Co-op and Placement Program that places students in engineering, polymer, and computing majors into co-op and full-time positions.