Plastics and Polymer Engineering Technology
This major prepares students to work in all phases of new plastics product development. Graduates may work in plastics operations in which engineers pass plans and projects to management, who must carry out the planning, organization, and delivery of manufactured products. Emphasis is on the skills needed to lead projects and interface with engineering and development teams, as well as development of competencies in the science of polymer materials, test procedures, designing for manufacturability, large quantity processing, and quality assurance. Students have the opportunity to prepare for management and supervisory positions, as well as technical positions, sales, service, or research.
Graduates of the Plastics and Polymer Technology associate degree (PS) can transfer into the Plastics and Polymer Engineering bachelor degree (BPS) without losing any credits.
Graduates have a diverse set of skills and abilities that could prepare them for "green" careers focused on energy, renewable energy, and the environment. Read more...
Program Specs
- Application/Major Code: BPS – view in catalog
- School: Industrial & Engineering Technologies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science Degree (B.S.)
About the curriculum
Program Educational Objectives
Classes
View the classes you will be attending in the College Catalog.
Accreditation & Industry Connections
After graduation
Career Opportunities
List of jobs via the College Catalog.
Graduates from these programs are in high demand to fill plastics industry career positions in manufacturing operations, process technology, supervision, research and development, product and machine design, and many more.
Graduates of the department are currently employed at companies across Pennsylvania and the country, including Honda, Toyota, General Electric, DuPont, Tyco, General Motors and many more. As opportunities like this continue with a bright future, consider a career in plastics.
Earnings
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual wages of salaried engineers in May 2010 were $90,270. The middle 50 percent earned between $67,180 and $115,440. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $49,530, and the top 10 percent earned more than $138,610.
According to our most recent graduate survey the average starting salary for Plastics and Polymer Engineering Technology graduates range from approximately $55,000 to $60,000.
Industries with the highest published employment and wages for this occupation are:
| Industry | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation) | 25,450 | $52.26 | $108,700 |
| Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services | 19,430 | $41.22 | $85,730 |
| Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing | 11,500 | $44.62 | $92,810 |
| Scientific Research and Development Services | 7,060 | $47.19 | $98,150 |
| Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing | 6,670 | $48.44 | $100,750 |
*Statistics reported in May 2010
Transfer Procedures
View general transfer procedures via the College Catalog.
Tools, Uniforms & Supplies
Tools
Necessary equipment will be addressed in courses as needed.
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store.
Clubs & Activities
Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE)
View the entire student organizations listing or Greek Life listing.
Plastics & Polymer Technology Advisory Committee
Advisory committees, which act as recommending bodies to the faculty and administration, consist of in-field professionals who act as partners in the development of curriculum. Their curricular and equipment advice as well as their industry connections and internship opportunities are invaluable to our students and to the growth of our institution.
