Master of Science in Packaging Science

Overview

Designed to educate packaging professionals to become experts in the packaging development process, the MS degree in packaging science focuses on how to select raw materials, design, and create functional packaging that withstands environmental, chemical, and physical hazards during distribution and transportation, and to create aesthetically pleasing packages to pique consumer interest. Through a combination of theoretical and application-focused learning experiences, students gain comprehensive knowledge related to packaging design, package testing, product marketing, project management, and quality control.

The packaging science program consists of 36 credit hours comprised of six required core courses, elective courses, and either a comprehensive exam, a capstone project, or a thesis. The total number of elective courses depends on the student's choice of the exam, project, or thesis option. Faculty advisors assist in selecting an option that best meets a student's career aspirations.

Industries

• Automotive
• Biotech and Life Sciences
• Consumer Packaged Goods
• Design
• Food and Beverage
• Medical Devices
• Manufacturing
• Pharmaceuticals

Typical Job Titles

• Packaging Engineer
• Packaging Designer
• Product Engineer
• Packaging Scientist
• Packaging Engineering and Merchandising Manager
• Package Engineering Technician
• Packaging Sales
• Structural Designer
• Packaging and Display Sales
• Packaging Development Engineer
• Packaging Project Management Engineer
• Display Services Specialist

Curriculum

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

First Year

• GRCS-701 Research Methods
• GRCS-702 Principles of Research Communications
• PACK-730 Packaging and the Environment
• PACK-742 Distribution Systems
• PACK-763Packaging for End Use
• Packaging Electives

Second Year

• PACK-783 Advanced Packaging Dynamics
• PACK-790Research Thesis
• Packaging Elective

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

First Year

• GRCS-701 Research Methods
• PACK-742 Distribution Systems
• PACK-730 Packaging and the Environment
• PACK-763 Packaging for End Use
• Packaging Electives

Second Year

• PACK-783 Advanced Packaging Dynamics
• PACK-797 Graduate Project
• Packaging Electives

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

First Year

• GRCS-701 Research Methods
• PACK-742 Distribution Systems
• PACK-730 Packaging and the Environment
• PACK-763 Packaging for End Use
• Packaging Electives

Second Year

• PACK-783 Advanced Packaging Dynamics
• PACK-795 Comprehensive Examination
• Packaging Electives

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission to the MS program in packaging science, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

• Complete a graduate application.
• Hold a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) from an accredited university or college.
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) in the final two years of undergraduate course work.
• Submit official transcripts (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work.
• Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores are not required. However, in cases where there may be some question of the capability of an applicant to complete the program, applicants may wish to submit scores to strengthen their application.
• Students 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.
• Applicants are required to have one semester of physics (mechanics focus), one semester of calculus, one year of chemistry (including organic chemistry), statistics, and basic computer literacy.
• International applicants whose native language is not English must submit scores from the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. A minimum TOEFL score of 79 (internet-based) is required. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is required. The English language test score requirement is waived for native speakers of English or for those submitting transcripts from degrees earned at American institutions.
• Students 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.
• Applicants are required to have one semester of physics (mechanics focus), one semester of calculus, one year of chemistry (including organic chemistry), statistics, and basic computer literacy.