About this program
In just one year, you can gain the skills needed to become a machine operator in the rapidly growing field of polymer manufacturing. Polymers, commonly known as plastics, are used everywhere; from medical devices and residential construction materials to automobiles and aircraft. Industry demand for skilled operators is high, and this program prepares you to meet that need through hands-on labs taught by experienced faculty. By graduation, you will be ready to move directly into a career in this essential field.
Are you currently a high school student? Find the information you need to pursue Polymer Processing Certificate while in high school.
Next steps...
You're on your way to becoming a tomorrow maker.
Industry-aligned Education
$21.85
Median pay
College Certificate in One Year
Careers
- Extrustion machine operator
- Injection mold operator
Courses
At Penn College, we believe your educational experience should go beyond specialized skills. Real-world ready means taking a broader approach that builds communication skills, inspires collaboration, and encourages exploration of arts, history, and science.
Specialization requires in-depth knowledge and high-level proficiency. Students learn and apply major-specific concepts, skills, and methods.
- FYE101First Year Experience
- MTHP4 Select One Course: MTH123 or MTH181
- PPT118Polymer Processing Survey - Lecture
- PPT119Polymer Processing Survey - Lab
- MSC127Introduction to Polymer Science
- MSC128Introduction to Polymer Science Lab
- PPT129Polymer Testing Lab
- QAL131Introduction to Quality Control
- ENLP1 Select One Course: ENL010 or ENL111
- EET124Engineering, Technology & Society
- PPT220Tooling Maintenance
- PPT170Automation Basics in Polymer Processing
- CPP Select One Course: PPT248 or PPT236
Perspectives are points of view, offering a variety of ways of understanding, interacting, and influencing the world. Students identify, explain, and utilize the approaches used by academics and professionals to study, analyze, or understand problems, and offer solutions.
- MTT223Machine Tool Applications for Fabrication & Repair
What are Polymers?
Polymers shape the world around us. At Penn College, we primarily study plastics, classified as a type of polymer. The development of polymers, under the umbrella of materials science, has led to many advancements in the material world we interact with everyday.
Polymers in Sneakers
Through the use of highly engineered polymers, our shoes help us run faster and jump higher than ever before.
Polymers in Medicine
Sutures, IV tubes, prosthetics, and hernia & brain patch applications are all made with polymer materials.
Polymers in Energy
Polymers used in housing insulation significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.
Polymers in Cars
New automobiles can be made with up to 50% plastic materials, significantly reducing fuel consumption.
About the program
Program Benefits
At Penn College, you’ll learn in hands-on labs alongside faculty with industry experience. Through lecture and practice, you’ll learn how to apply the knowledge you gain via extensive lab hours. Because of industry partnerships, you’ll learn on real-world machinery that will prepare you for your post-graduation career. You’ll build technical expertise in:
- Decoupled molding processes
- Mold setup and troubleshooting
- Operating extrusion systems
- Automation systems
In addition to technical skill, you will build a foundation in data analysis and communication. These skillsets are critical to success in the polymer workforce, preparing you for career advancement. If you choose to pursue engineering roles, the Polymer Processing Certificate program provides a seamless credit-pathway to the Polymer Engineering Technology bachelor’s degree.
Tour Schedule
Seeing is believing.
Think Penn College might be a good fit for you? Make plans to visit and discover what hands-on learning is all about.
Feb 21
Undergraduate Open House
Saturday, February 219 AM - 3 PM
Apr 26
Undergraduate Open House
Sunday, April 269 AM - 3 PM
Maker Profiles
Alumni
Alexa Korinchak
Polymer Engineering
It wasn’t until after a few years of community college and a VIP plastics tour from a family friend that Alexa found something that genuinely sparked her interest.
Alumni
Dalton Smith
Polymer Engineering
His interest in plastics and polymers began in high school while working with his father at Shop-Vac where he first explored injection molding.
Alumni
Hannah Maize
Polymer Engineering
She loves her career and the thrill of solving challenges. “I'm never bored and always learning something new,” she says.
Penn College News
Thursday, October 23, 2025
Company renews commitment to Penn College polymer program
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Two retired Penn College faculty granted emeritus status
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Penn College offers certificate pathway for high school students
More Information
Necessary equipment will be addressed in courses as needed.
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store.
Alternative Credit refers to academic credits earned through means other than traditional college course completion, including: credit by exam, articulation, proof of competency gained in high school, work/life experience, and advanced placement.
Visit the Alternative Credit Options page for requirements and procedures and for information on credit through Advanced Placement.