Polymer Engineering Major, MS

Thesis Option
A total of 30 hours is required for the MS with a major in polymer engineering. Additional requirements include the following.

• The polymer engineering major must include MSE 539 , MSE 540 , MSE 543  and MSE 552  for the polymer processing and polymer science concentrations; exceptions are given if similar material has been covered in prior course work. 
• Additional courses up to 15 hours total in related areas. 
• Master’s thesis MSE 500 , totaling 6 to 12 hours. 
• Satisfactory performance on a comprehensive oral examination administered by the faculty committee.

All resident students are required to participate in the graduate seminar in polymer engineering during each semester in which it is offered. Three hours of MSE 504  may be counted toward degree requirements.

Non-Thesis Option
Any candidate may apply for a non-thesis option. Upon acceptance, a supervisory committee of three will be appointed. At least two members of the committee will be from the faculty in the major area. The requirements for completion of the non-thesis option are as follows.

• Completion of a total of 30 hours of graduate course work. At least 18 of those hours must be in the department and up to 12 hours may be in related areas. Three hours of or MSE 504  may be counted toward degree requirements. The polymer engineering major must include the same courses required for the thesis option. The faculty committee must approve the candidate’s degree program. 
• Satisfactory completion of MSE 580  (Critical Review) as a culminating experience. This course shall include a comprehensive examination administered by the faculty committee.