Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering, BS
Program Details
- Location
- Akron Campus
- Level
- undergraduate
- Degree/Program Type
- Bachelor of Science / major
- Format
- In-person
- Course Info
- Curriculum Guide
- College
- College of Engineering and Polymer Science
- School/Department
- School of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering
Program Contact
- Dean's Office: College of Engineering and Polymer Science
-
Auburn Science and Engineering Center
330-972-6978
Overview
Since 1939, The University of Akron has been a world leader in polymers, starting with the United Synthetic Rubber Program. Our Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering program lets you take advantage of world-class teaching and research to launch your career in the vibrant polymer industry in Northeast Ohio and beyond.
The program builds a strong foundation in polymer chemistry, physics and engineering, with options to specialize in sustainability, processing or biomaterials. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, access to 25 polymer research labs, collaborations with local polymer companies and many research opportunities.
Get your degree from the top university in the world for polymer science and plastics engineering, according to global ranking site EduRank.
Admissions Requirements
Students who meet The University of Akron’s admission requirements and choose engineering as their major are directly admitted into the College
If you're coming from high school, your high school records will help determine the best first-semester courses for you
Career Outcomes
Polymer engineers and scientists work in industries focused on rubber, plastics, composites, coatings and textiles. They also work in broader fields like agriculture, automotive, aerospace, construction, consumer products, electronics, healthcare, oil and gas, and specialty chemicals.
Polymers are used in many industries, including aerospace, electronics, medicine, petroleum, plastics, fiber and rubber. Polymer scientists and engineers combine chemistry, physics, biology and engineering to develop material solutions for some of the world’s toughest challenges. They invent new materials, improve processes and model how large molecules behave.
YES, some things just set us apart.
Learn from Leading Polymer Experts
Our faculty are among the largest groups of polymer experts in the country, with over 300 patents issued or pending, including many commercialized worldwide.
State-of-the-Art Labs & Industry-Connected Learning
Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, access to 25 polymer research labs, industry collaborations, advising, career services, tutoring, design teams, student organizations, and the University’s renowned Co-op and Placement Program. You can specialize in sustainability, processing or biomaterials.
Leader in Polymer Science & Plastics Engineering
The University of Akron is ranked the number one university in the U.S. for polymer science and plastics engineering by global ranking site EduRank.
Engineering Excellence since 1913.
We’ve been reaching new heights for more than a century — and we’re not slowing down.
Learn Through Experience
Our engineering students learn through experience. Our famed co-op program, one of the oldest in the country, provides students with paid industry experience. On average, students earn $47K over three co-op rotations, all while completing their degree. Within six months of graduation, our 2024 College graduates launched careers, pursued graduate school, or entered military service, with an average starting salary of $72K.
Undergraduate Research
Undergraduate research opportunities and senior capstone projects empower students to innovate, apply classroom knowledge, and strengthen collaboration skills in professional settings.
Exceptional Education
We offer an exceptional education. Our expert professors are not only leaders in their fields but are also deeply committed to your success. They are passionate about helping you achieve great things and are dedicated to supporting every student's journey in engineering.
Design Teams & Student Organizations
Build medical devices, robots, race cars, rockets and more on our design teams, which rank among the best in the nation and world in competition. Students can also join one of our many student organizations such as the Polymer Student Organization, Engineers for a Sustainable World, UA’s student chapter of the American Chemical Society Rubber Division, National Society of Black Engineers, Society of Women Engineers and more.
“I chose UA specifically for its top-ranked Polymer Science & Polymer Engineering program. During my campus tour, I was captivated by the Chihuly ‘rock candy’ statue. This sparked my interest in the field and solidified my decision to pursue my degree at UA.”
"I chose to major in Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering because of its unique combination of science and engineering. The program opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities by preparing students to think like both scientists and engineers while providing hands-on research experience and valuable connections to Akron's rubber industry."
“Choosing to minor in Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering is one of the best decisions I made at UA. It helps set me apart from others and opened many opportunities for me, including more interviews for my co-op and full-time position.”
