Master of Science in Coatings and Polymeric Materials

The Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials offers graduate studies leading to the Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in coatings and polymeric materials. Departmental research bridges between basic and applied research in the field of polymers and coatings. There is a unique atmosphere and opportunities for cross-disciplinary research experience, often accomplished by multi-disciplinary research activities with, for example, chemistry or engineering departments. Advanced research work involves specialized training in the following areas: colloidal and interfacial chemistry of polymers and coatings, polymer synthesis, adhesion, durability, spectroscopy, corrosion, electrochemistry, nanomaterials design and synthesis, computational modeling, life cycle assessment, and rheology. The department has an industrial advisory board consisting of leading industrial scientists and/or former graduates who provide new directions and other feedback to the program.

The Master of Science program requires the completion of 16 credits of letter-graded course work with an overall GPA of 3.0 or better. The Ph.D. program requires the completion of 27 credits of letter-graded course work with an overall GPA of 3.0 or better. Each student must choose a thesis (research) adviser within three to six months of beginning graduate school. After two semesters, the student must also select a supervisory committee. This committee advises the student and administers oral examinations. Candidates for the M.S. program normally satisfy course requirements within one year of study. Ph.D. candidates typically take about two years to complete courses, leaving later years for full-time dissertation research.

The Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials graduate program is open to all qualified graduates of universities and colleges of recognized standing. To be admitted with full standing status to the program, the applicant must meet the Graduate School admission requirements and have adequate preparation in a science or engineering field.

TOEFL ibt 79, IELTS 6.5, toefl pbt - 550

At the baccalaureate level, the applicant must have earned a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0, or equivalent, to attain full standing in a graduate degree program. Applicants whose last degree completed is a graduate degree may be admitted in full standing if the final GPA of that degree is at least 3.0 or equivalent.

GRE: Required for international applicants (unless the applicant has earned a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university within the United States), Recommended for all applicants