Program Overview

Program Overview

The Fiber Science M.S. program at Cornell University focuses on the study of fibrous materials and their applications in various fields, including apparel, engineering, biomedical, and home furnishings. The program is multidisciplinary, with faculty members from the Colleges of Human Ecology and Engineering.

Program Description

The program's common focus is on the study of fibrous materials, with active research programs in areas such as:

• High-performance fibers and fiber-reinforced composites
• Green composites
• Detergency and surface chemistry
• Perfume-treated fabrics
• Textile materials in biomedical and geotechnical applications
• Polymers for electronics
• Liquid-crystal polymers
• Textile-dye chemistry
• Crystal morphology of fibers
• Electrospin of fibers
• Cellulose
• Apparel and fashion design
• Design ethnography
• Sizing and fit of apparel
• Functional apparel
• Cultural and historic studies of clothing and textiles
• Mass customization and technology
• Technology management in the apparel industry

Research Facilities

Outstanding facilities for research and study are available in the College of Human Ecology and the College of Engineering, including:

• Textile and polymer science laboratories equipped with modern instrumentation for chemical, physical, and mechanical analysis
• A controlled temperature and humidity room
• Apparel design studios equipped with industrial sewing equipment
• A visual analysis lab with video image-capture and photography equipment
• A functional apparel lab with human-factors testing equipment, including a full-body scanner

Concentrations by Subject

The program offers concentrations in:

• Fiber science
• Polymer science
• Textile science

Tuition

Tuition information can be found on the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadlines

• Fall: December 15

Requirements Summary

• All Graduate School Requirements, including the English Language Proficiency Requirement for all applicants
• Two recommendations and recommendation forms
• Pre-application for M.A., M.S. applicants; request form from field via email
• Portfolio for Apparel Design applicants

Admission is based on evidence of potential for advanced study. Pre-applications are required for M.A., M.S., and Ph.D. programs. Applicants to the Ph.D. program in fiber science should have an M.S. degree in textile chemistry, textile science, polymer science, engineering, chemistry, physics, applied mathematics, or a similar discipline.

Learning Outcomes

Master concepts in Fiber Science, including:

• Theory and practice of fiber formation
• Rheology of solids: dynamic mechanical analysis of fibers and polymers
• Physical properties of fiber-forming polymers and fibers
• Chemistry of textile finishes and dyeing
• Properties of fibrous systems