MS in Polymer Science and Engineering and Graduate Certificate

A graduate degree and certificate program built to expand your expertise and position you for industry leadership

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Prepare to Advance Innovation Across Materials Fields

Lehigh University’s P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science proudly offers an MS in Polymer Science and Engineering (PSE) that empowers students to lead bold innovation in one of the world's most versatile and high-impact materials fields. This program blends engineering, chemistry, and physics to explore the structure, properties, and applications of polymers across domains.

Students gain a well-rounded foundation in both theory and practice. The curriculum emphasizes sustainability in plastics, covering concepts in plastic waste accumulation, identification of renewable material sources, and reduction of environmental impacts across all stages of the material lifecycle.

Ready to learn more? Request more information today to see how Lehigh’s PSE master’s and certificate programs can take your career in polymer science to the next level.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Supporting Positive Student Outcomes

Committed to Your Success

With personalized graduate career resources

R1 Research Resources

With small school appeal

42% Growth

In engineering research since 2021

A Global Network of 88,000 Alumni

Actively engaged across all industry sectors

Career Stats - Committed to Your Success
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Industries

Graduates of the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science graduate programs in Polymer Science frequently join the following industries:

  • Manufacturing
  • Life Sciences
  • Engineering
  • Chemicals
  • Consumer Goods
  • Technology
  • Defense & Space
  • Aviation & Aerospace
  • Consulting

Employers

Top employers include:

  • 3M
  • Air Products
  • BASF
  • Boeing
  • Colgate-Palmolive
  • DuPont
  • Evonik
Why Lehigh

Why Lehigh?

At Lehigh, you’ll find the right balance of academic rigor, personal support, and practical experience that sets our Polymer Science and Engineering MS and graduate certificate programs apart. With us, you’ll benefit from:

A Campus Designed for Focus and Opportunity

Nestled in Pennsylvania’s scenic Lehigh Valley, our beautiful, serene campus provides the ideal setting to step away from daily distractions and fully commit to your studies. Located just a short drive from New York City and Philadelphia, students benefit from both a peaceful environment and access to major business hubs. With the Lehigh Valley’s own rapid growth and strong university connections to leading companies, you truly get the best of both worlds.

Our Status as an R1 Research Institution

As one of just 187 R1 research universities in the nation, Lehigh offers graduate students the opportunity to engage in meaningful, high-impact research guided by expert faculty.

A Close-Knit Community

Small class sizes, accessible faculty, and a team focused on your career development mean you won’t just be another face in the crowd. You’ll form strong connections with professors, advisors, and peers who are invested in your success.

Learning With Real-World Impact

This degree prepares graduates for a variety of career paths in the rapidly evolving polymer field. The program also has a long history of placing students in high-earning roles within the industry and advancing their careers, resulting in a strong alumni network that provides invaluable connections and professional opportunities.

Polymer Science and Engineering MS Admissions Requirements

Wondering how to apply to the master’s degree program? Here’s what you need to know:

Application Deadlines

  • Rolling Admissions
    • July 15 deadline for Fall semester
    • Dec 15 deadline for Spring semester

What You Need to Apply

  • Completed online application
  • $50 non-refundable application fee
  • Official transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application review)
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Demonstrated English proficiency (if required)

FAQs

When is the final deadline to apply to the master’s program?

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When do classes start?

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How does a certificate differ from a general engineering degree?

Earning a graduate certificate does not confer a master’s degree. The certificate program is designed to accommodate technical professionals in the plastics and plastics-related industries to further enhance their knowledge of polymer science and engineering.

What prerequisites need to be met to apply?

To be eligible for the master’s degree program, applicants must hold at least a Bachelor of Science (or equivalent) degree in a related field. 

How long does it take to complete both programs?

The PSE master’s program can be completed full-time over the course of two to three academic semesters or part-time at your own pace. The certificate program takes 

Are scholarships available?

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