Master's in Polymer Science and Engineering overview
Lehigh University's online Master of Science (MS) in Polymer Science and Engineering (PSE) is an interdisciplinary program that integrates principles from engineering, chemistry, and physics for advanced study of polymers. The program brings together faculty from departments such as chemical and biomolecular engineering, materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering and mechanics, and bioengineering, offering students a diverse and comprehensive training in tunable functionality and properties of polymers spanning mechanical, chemical, optical, electronic, or otherwise. Lehigh's PSE program also focuses on fundamental training around making plastics more sustainable, covering concepts in plastic waste accumulation, identification of renewable material sources, and reduction of environmental impacts across all stages of the material life cycle.
Master's in Polymer Science and Engineering highlights
- Collaborative and interdisciplinary approach.
- A legacy of innovation dating from the program's establishment in 1975.
- Leadership in polymer science education and applications.
- A powerful and connected alumni network.
Polymer Science and Engineering salary and career outlook
The program prepares graduates for a variety of career paths with highly competitive salaries. Students with backgrounds in engineering, science, technology, chemistry, physics, and environmental sustainability can advance in their careers in the rapidly evolving polymer field whether you are a recent college graduate or a seasoned profesional seeking to deepen your expertise or pivot in your career. The program has a long history of placing students across the industry and advancing the career of professionals, resulting in a strong alumni network that provides invaluable connections and opportunities for career advancement.
Polymer Science and Engineering program format
The Master of Science (MS) in Polymer Science and Engineering is offered as an online graduate program. The curriculum keeps pace with advancements in the polymer field, particularly in the development of new materials and techniques as well as in the critical area of material sustainability. The program can be completed full-time over the course of 2-3 academic semesters or part-time at your own pace to help balance career demands with program progress. Beyond a subset of core technical courses, the program offers ample flexibilty for students to cutomize their degree and to explore topics spanning composites, biopolymers, soft material mechanics, nanocomposites, and beyond. Both thesis and coursework-only options are possible.
Polymer Science and Engineering collaborations
The interdisciplinary nature of the program fosters collaboration, bringing together faculty from various engineering and science departments. This approach promotes innovation and provides students with a broad perspective on the field.
Polymer Science and Engineering external funding
Lehigh's Polymer Science and Engieering program actively engages with industry partners and professional societies to ensure relevance of the curriculum. Partial merit-based and alumni tuition scholarships are available.
Master's in Polymer Science and Engineering admissions requirements
To be considered for admission to the master's program, candidates must hold at least a Bachelor of Science (or equivalent) degree in a related field. A complete application must include:
- A candidate's personal statement detailing their motivation for graduate study and research interests.
- The candidate's resume summarizing background relevant to graduate study.
- Complete transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Unofficial copies may be uploaded initially, but official transcripts are required upon accepting an offer of admission.
- Two (2) letters of recommendation from qualified individuals.
- For international students whose first language is not English who have not studied in the US or countries where English is an official and widely spoken language, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or Cambridge English Qualification test scores are required.
- A non-refundable application fee of $50.
- GRE test scores are not required.