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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Masters
Major
Packaging Design | Food Processing | Textile & Apparel Studies
Area of study
Manufacturing and Processing
Education type
On campus
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


Overview

Design sustainable, functional packaging that stands out. RIT’s MS in packaging science blends creativity and engineering to craft creative packaging solutions.


Why Pursue a Masters in Packaging Science at RIT?

  • STEM-OPT Visa Eligible: The STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows full-time, on-campus international students on an F-1 student visa to stay and work in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation.
  • Combination of Theoretical and Hands-on Learning Experiences: Gain comprehensive knowledge related to packaging design, package testing, product marketing, project management, and quality control.
  • Future-Focused Curriculum: Take dynamic courses in packaging dynamics, packaging and the environment, product packaging for end use, and distribution systems.
  • Flexible Options to Complete Your Degree: Choose between a thesis, capstone project, or comprehensive exam to earn your master's in packaging science.

What is Packaging Science?

Packaging science is a dynamic field that integrates engineering, design, and business to develop and design product packaging for a range of consumer goods. Packaging engineers and packaging designers focus on understanding the packaging needs of a product and what it must accomplish.


Packaging Science Courses

The packaging science master’s consists of core courses, elective courses, and either a comprehensive exam, capstone project, or thesis. The total number of elective courses depends on your choice of the exam, project, or thesis option. Faculty advisors assist in selecting an option that best meets your career aspirations.


Core Courses

  • GRCS-701: Research Methods
  • PACK-730: Packaging and the Environment
  • PACK-742: Distribution Systems
  • PACK-763: Packaging for End Use
  • PACK-783: Advanced Packaging Dynamics

Elective Courses

  • PACK-790: Research Thesis (6 credits)
  • PACK-797: Graduate Project (3 credits)
  • PACK-795: Comprehensive Examination (0 credits)

Careers and Cooperative Education

Typical Job Titles

  • Associate Specialist - Packaging Operations
  • Packaging Engineer
  • Packaging Designer
  • Package Developer
  • Product Engineer
  • Packaging Scientist
  • Package Engineering Technician
  • Packaging Sales
  • Structural Designer
  • Packaging and Display Sales
  • Packaging Development Engineer
  • Packaging Project Management Engineer
  • Display Services Specialist

Cooperative Education

Full-time students may choose to complete cooperative education. After completing two semesters of study (a minimum of 18 credit hours), students may request approval to complete up to one year of cooperative education related to packaging.


Admissions and Financial Aid

Application Details

To be considered for admission to the Packaging Science MS program, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:


  • Complete an online graduate application.
  • Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
  • Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) is recommended.
  • Satisfy prerequisite requirements and/or complete bridge courses prior to starting program coursework.
  • Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
  • Submit two letters of recommendation.
  • Entrance exam requirements: None
  • Submit English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic), if required.

Cost and Financial Aid

An RIT graduate degree is an investment with lifelong returns. Graduate tuition varies by degree, the number of credits taken per semester, and delivery method.


Prerequisites

Applicants must have completed at least one semester of physics (mechanics focus), one semester of calculus, one year of chemistry (including organic chemistry), statistics, and basic computer literacy.


Bridge Courses

Applicants who do not have an equivalent bachelor’s degree in packaging science will be evaluated and the appropriate undergraduate bridge courses will be prescribed. These courses may not be used for credit toward the MS degree.


Faculty

  • Carlos Diaz-Acosta - Professor
  • Kyle Dunno - Department Chair
  • Lexi Rich - Senior Lecturer

Related News

  • Students recognized for excellence in graphics and research at national flexographic printing challenge
  • Environmental responsibility in the food sector
  • RIT alumna inducted into Packaging and Processing Hall of Fame

Contact

  • G. Jackson Gagnier - Admissions Counselor
  • Yanelys Alvarado - Senior Staff Specialist

Offered within the Department of Packaging and Graphic Media Science.


Program Outline

Designed for packaging professionals to become experts in the packaging development process, the master's in packaging science focuses on selecting raw materials, developing environmentally friendly packaging solutions, and creating functional packaging that withstands environmental, chemical, and physical stresses during distribution and transportation. The program will also help you to keep these functional aspects in mind as you develop attractive packaging designs that are aesthetically pleasing as they pique consumer interest. This master's in packaging science combines theoretical and hands-on learning experiences that enable you to gain comprehensive knowledge related to packaging design, package testing, product marketing, project management, and quality control.

Read More

Students are also interested in: Print and Graphic Media Science MS


Careers and Cooperative Education

Typical Job Titles

Associate Specialist - Packaging Operations Packaging Engineer
Packaging Designer Package Developer
Product Engineer Packaging Scientist
Package Engineering Technician Packaging Sales
Structural Designer Packaging and Display Sales
Packaging Development Engineer Packaging Project Management Engineer
Display Services Specialist

Salary and Career Information for Packaging Science MS

Cooperative Education

What makes an RIT education exceptional? It’s the ability to complete relevant, hands-on career experience. At the graduate level, and paired with an advanced degree, cooperative education and internships give you the unparalleled credentials that truly set you apart. Learn more about graduate co-op and how it provides you with the career experience employers look for in their next top hires.

Full-time students may choose to complete cooperative education. After completing two semesters of study (a minimum of 18 credit hours), students may request approval to complete up to one year of cooperative education related to packaging.


Packaging Science (thesis option), MS degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
GRCS-701 3
This is an introductory graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
PACK-730 3
Consideration of packaging in a social context. Factors that enhance secondary use, recycling, recovery of resources, and proper disposal are discussed. Package design in relation to solid waste disposal and materials and energy shortages are considered. Other topics of interest are discussed. Primarily a discussion class for graduate students. Open to graduate non-majors. Lecture 3 (Spring).
PACK-742 3
The course develops knowledges and application skills of the distribution packaging. Topics covered are packaging used in distribution systems, integrated packaging supply chain, modeling and analysis of the distribution systems, and score card in packaging supply chain. Emphasises are given to estimate and predict the packaging protection and to optimize the packaging distribution using various tools. The lab focuses on development and evaluation of a distribution packaging. The projects are designed to assess the packaging performance in distribution systems. (This course is restricted to students in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
PACK-763 3
An intensive study of package design requirements specific to use of a product at specified end points. Individual design and development of a package system and its specifications, appropriate to the needs of the product and the consumer/end user and meets the demands of the supply chain. (Prerequisites: PACK-451 or equivalent course or graduate student standing in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
 
Packaging Electives
12
Second Year
PACK-783 3
The study of instrumentation systems for analysis, evaluation and application of shock and vibration test methods to develop protective package designs and effective product/package interaction. A research paper is required. (This course is restricted to students in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
PACK-790 6
A thesis is based on experimental evidence obtained by the candidate in an appropriate topic demonstrating the extension of theory into practice. A written proposal which is defended and authorized by the faculty advisor/committee followed by a formal written thesis and oral presentation of findings are required. Typically the candidate will have completed research methods, data analysis and graduate writing strategies prior to enrolling in this course and will start the thesis process as soon as they have completed these courses to allow them to finish the thesis when they have finished their coursework. The candidate must obtain the approval of their graduate adviser who will guide the thesis before registering for this course. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Thesis (Fall, Spring, Summer).
 
Packaging Elective
3
Total Semester Credit Hours
36

Packaging Science (capstone project option), MS degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
GRCS-701 3
This is an introductory graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
PACK-742 3
The course develops knowledges and application skills of the distribution packaging. Topics covered are packaging used in distribution systems, integrated packaging supply chain, modeling and analysis of the distribution systems, and score card in packaging supply chain. Emphasises are given to estimate and predict the packaging protection and to optimize the packaging distribution using various tools. The lab focuses on development and evaluation of a distribution packaging. The projects are designed to assess the packaging performance in distribution systems. (This course is restricted to students in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
PACK-730 3
Consideration of packaging in a social context. Factors that enhance secondary use, recycling, recovery of resources, and proper disposal are discussed. Package design in relation to solid waste disposal and materials and energy shortages are considered. Other topics of interest are discussed. Primarily a discussion class for graduate students. Open to graduate non-majors. Lecture 3 (Spring).
PACK-763 3
An intensive study of package design requirements specific to use of a product at specified end points. Individual design and development of a package system and its specifications, appropriate to the needs of the product and the consumer/end user and meets the demands of the supply chain. (Prerequisites: PACK-451 or equivalent course or graduate student standing in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
 
Packaging Electives
12
Second Year
PACK-783 3
The study of instrumentation systems for analysis, evaluation and application of shock and vibration test methods to develop protective package designs and effective product/package interaction. A research paper is required. (This course is restricted to students in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
PACK-797 3
The purpose of this course is to provide students the opportunity to conduct research, develop a plan and evaluation components and submit the project as a demonstration of final proficiency in the program. The topic selected by the student will be guided by the faculty teaching the class and it will require the student to coalesce and incorporate into the final project a culmination of all their course work in the program to date. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Project (Spring).
 
Packaging Electives
6
Total Semester Credit Hours
36

Packaging Science (comprehensive exam option), MS degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
GRCS-701 3
This is an introductory graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
PACK-742 3
The course develops knowledges and application skills of the distribution packaging. Topics covered are packaging used in distribution systems, integrated packaging supply chain, modeling and analysis of the distribution systems, and score card in packaging supply chain. Emphasises are given to estimate and predict the packaging protection and to optimize the packaging distribution using various tools. The lab focuses on development and evaluation of a distribution packaging. The projects are designed to assess the packaging performance in distribution systems. (This course is restricted to students in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
PACK-730 3
Consideration of packaging in a social context. Factors that enhance secondary use, recycling, recovery of resources, and proper disposal are discussed. Package design in relation to solid waste disposal and materials and energy shortages are considered. Other topics of interest are discussed. Primarily a discussion class for graduate students. Open to graduate non-majors. Lecture 3 (Spring).
PACK-763 3
An intensive study of package design requirements specific to use of a product at specified end points. Individual design and development of a package system and its specifications, appropriate to the needs of the product and the consumer/end user and meets the demands of the supply chain. (Prerequisites: PACK-451 or equivalent course or graduate student standing in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
 
Packaging Electives
12
Second Year
PACK-783 3
The study of instrumentation systems for analysis, evaluation and application of shock and vibration test methods to develop protective package designs and effective product/package interaction. A research paper is required. (This course is restricted to students in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
PACK-795 0
A written comprehensive exam is one of the non-thesis methodologies for completion of the MS degree. Students will demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of the theories and foundation principles. This course will include a review of the main concepts of each of the core subjects and at the conclusion of the course the student will take a written examination and must receive a passing grade of at least 80 percent to be successful. Students will have one additional opportunity to pass this examination if their initial attempt results in a failing grade. (Faculty adviser approval required). (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Comp Exam 3 (Fall, Summer).
 
Packaging Electives
9
Total Semester Credit Hours
36
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PhD
Masters
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Diploma
Courses

Rochester Institute of Technology (Dubai)

Overview:

Rochester Institute of Technology (Dubai) is a branch campus of the renowned Rochester Institute of Technology in the United States. Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, a special economic zone for knowledge and innovation, RIT Dubai offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including engineering, business, computing, and design. The institution is committed to providing students with a high-quality American education in a dynamic and international setting.

Services Offered:

RIT Dubai provides a wide array of services to support student success, including:

Academic Support Center:


  • Offers tutoring, study skills workshops, and other resources to enhance academic performance.

Advising Resources:


  • Provides guidance on academic planning, career exploration, and personal development.

Health and Wellness:


  • Offers access to healthcare services, counseling, and wellness programs.

Athletics and Recreation:


  • Provides opportunities for students to participate in sports, fitness activities, and recreational programs.

Student Leadership:


  • Encourages student involvement in clubs, organizations, and leadership initiatives.

Student Accommodation:


  • Offers on-campus housing options for students.

Parking and Transportation:

  • Provides parking facilities and transportation services for students.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

RIT Dubai fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community where students can engage in a variety of activities and experiences, including:

Student Life at RIT Dubai:


  • Offers opportunities for students to connect with peers, participate in social events, and explore cultural activities.

New Student Orientation:


  • Provides a welcoming introduction to campus life and resources.

Co-op and Internship Program:

  • Offers students practical work experience through co-op and internship opportunities.

Key Reasons to Study There:

American Degree:


  • RIT Dubai offers a true American degree, recognized globally for its quality and rigor.

State-of-the-Art Campus:


  • The campus features modern facilities and technology to support learning and research.

Co-op and Internship Program:


  • Provides students with valuable work experience and career development opportunities.

Study Abroad Options:


  • Offers students the chance to study at other RIT campuses or partner institutions around the world.

Global Connectivity:

  • RIT Dubai is located in a dynamic and international hub, providing students with diverse perspectives and networking opportunities.

Academic Programs:

RIT Dubai offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including:

Undergraduate Programs:

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts in New Media Design
  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology
  • Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering
  • Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
  • Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Technologies
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
  • Bachelor of Science in Marketing
  • Bachelor of Science in Finance
  • Bachelor of Science in Global Business Management

Graduate Programs:

  • Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Innovation
  • Masters of Science in Professional Studies: Future Foresight and Planning
  • Masters of Science in Engineering Management
  • Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering
  • Masters of Science in Professional Studies: Data Analytics
  • Masters of Science in Professional Studies: Smart Cities
  • Masters of Science in Cybersecurity
  • Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering

Other:

  • RIT Dubai has a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, with dedicated labs and centers supporting student projects and research.
  • The institution boasts a diverse student body representing over 75 nationalities, creating a rich and multicultural learning environment.
  • RIT Dubai has a high employability rate, with over 80% of graduates securing employment within six months of graduation.
  • The institution has a strong network of alumni, providing students with valuable connections and career support.

Total programs
226
Average ranking globally
#442
Average ranking in the country
#132
Admission Requirements

This program is available on-campus only.

Offered Admit Term(s) Application Deadline STEM Designated
Full‑time Fall Rolling Yes

Full-time study is 9+ semester credit hours. International students requiring a visa to study at the RIT Rochester campus must study full‑time.

Application Details

To be considered for admission to the Packaging Science MS program, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Complete an online graduate application. 
  • Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
  • Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college.
  • A recommended minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent).
  • Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
  • Submit two letters of recommendation.
  • Entrance exam requirements: None
  • Writing samples are optional.
  • Submit English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic), if required. Details are below.

English Language Test Scores

International applicants whose native language is not English must submit one of the following official English language test scores. Some international applicants may be considered for an English test requirement waiver.

TOEFL IELTS PTE Academic
79 6.5 56

International students below the minimum requirement may be considered for conditional admission. Each program requires balanced sub-scores when determining an applicant’s need for additional English language courses.

How to Apply Start or Manage Your Application

Cost and Financial Aid

An RIT graduate degree is an investment with lifelong returns. Graduate tuition varies by degree, the number of credits taken per semester, and delivery method. View the general cost of attendance or estimate the cost of your graduate degree.

A combination of sources can help fund your graduate degree. Learn how to fund your degree

Additional Information

Prerequisites

Applicants must have completed at least one semester of physics (mechanics focus), one semester of calculus, one year of chemistry (including organic chemistry), statistics, and basic computer literacy.

Bridge Courses

Applicants who do not have an equivalent bachelor’s degree in packaging science will be evaluated and the appropriate undergraduate bridge courses will be prescribed. These courses may not be used for credit toward the MS degree.

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