Program Overview

Introduction to Macromolecular Science and Engineering

The Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering at Case Western Reserve University is the nation's first stand-alone polymer science and engineering department. It continues to send its graduates into leadership positions in industry, government, standards, and academic organizations.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Macromolecular Science and Engineering program is designed to increase the student's knowledge of macromolecular science and their own basic area of scientific interest, with application to specific polymer research problems. The interdisciplinary academic structure allows the faculty to fit the individual program to the student's background and career plans.

Degree Options

The program offers three versions of the MS degree:

• Course-focused MS
• Project-focused MS
• Research-focused MS Details of these programs are described in the university bulletin. These MS degree programs can also be delivered via distance learning, wherein coursework is streamed to students off campus, with optional research projects coordinated with departmental faculty members.

Research Areas

The department's research areas include:

• Advanced Composites
• Advanced Films and Packaging
• Biomaterials and Biomimetics
• Complex Fluids and Soft Matter
• Fire-safe Polymers
• Polymer-based Nanotechnology
• Polymer Structure and Properties
• Polymer Synthesis and Molecular Design
• REU Summer Research

Curriculum

The curriculum provides a solid basis in the chemistry, physics, engineering, and application of polymers. It is carefully constructed based on close ties with industry partners to deliver the kind of education that produces in-demand employees. The program is designed to hone technical expertise while building skills that make a well-rounded professional: creativity, communication, emotional intelligence, entrepreneurial thinking, leadership, and business acumen.

Specializations

Students also have the option of earning their MS in Macromolecular Science and Engineering with a specialization in Fire Science and Engineering. Additionally, there is a new master's degree track and certificate program in advanced films and packaging systems that offers flexible scheduling, online and on-site courses, and an emphasis on innovation management.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program can be found in a wide range of employers, including IBM, Intel, Goodyear, Bridgestone, Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, Sealed Air, Lubrizol, Sherwin-Williams, BASF, Covestro, DSM, Akzo-Nobel, Dow, Formlabs, Saint Gobain, A. Schulman, PolyOne, Estee Lauder, 3M, Eli Lilly, PTT Global, Arkema, Milliken & Co., Baxter, Pentaplast, Braskem, and Owens-Corning, as well as law firms, Department of Defense laboratories, and university professorships.

Degree Requirements

Review the university's General Bulletin for specific course requirements. The program includes basic and advanced courses in polymer synthesis, physical chemistry, physics, biopolymers, and applied polymer science and engineering. A laboratory course in polymer characterization instructs students in the use of modern experimental techniques and equipment. Graduate students are also encouraged to take advanced coursework in polymer solid state physics, physical chemistry, synthesis, rheology, and polymer processing.