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.