Macromolecular Science

Side view of a scientist in lab gear working in a laboratory using pipette
Doctor of Philosophy

About the Program

In Case Western Reserve University’s Department of Macromolecular Science—the nation’s first standalone polymer science department—we’re focused on leading the field forward. As a PhD student in our program, you’ll be challenged to make breakthroughs in polymer synthesis, chemistry, physics and engineering as you specialize your skills. Some 75% of all chemists and chemical engineers in the United States work in the polymer field, yet only a tiny fraction of these people have been specifically trained in polymers—the training and experience you’ll gain earning your PhD at Case Western Reserve will put you at the forefront as you chart your career.

What to Expect

At Case Western Reserve, you’ll work toward your own discoveries as part of a team of prolific researchers. Our esteemed group of field-leading faculty will guide you through your studies. Additionally, you’ll choose a research advisor who will provide mentorship in research conception, methods, performance and ethics, and who will help you build professional contacts. 

Our program is designed for you to enhance your own research portfolio and hone your technical expertise, as well as form the skills that make you a well-rounded professional: creativity, communication, emotional intelligence, entrepreneurial thinking, leadership and business acumen. 

As a PhD student, you are required to complete 36 hours of coursework. This includes the departmental core courses and 18 credit hours of thesis work, in addition to passing the research qualifying exam (oral proposal) and the written qualifying exam. 

Request Information

Loading...

Beyond the Classroom

Our graduates are in high demand. The majority go on to careers at industry leaders such as IBM, Intel, Goodyear, Bridgestone, Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, Sealed Air, Lubrizol, Sherwin-Williams, BASF, Covestro, DSM, Akzo-Nobel, Dow, Formlabs, Saint Gobain, A. Schulman, PolyOne, Estee Lauder, 3M, Eli Lilly, PTT Global, Arkema, Milliken & Co., Baxter, Pentaplast, Braskem and Owens-Corning. Others join national laboratories and pursue careers in academia.


By the Numbers

#51

engineering school in the country, U.S News & World Report

#18

biomedical engineering school, U.S News & World Report

Admission Requirements

Graduate degrees are administered through the university’s School of Graduate Studies. Learn more on how to apply or explore graduate student resources.

Contact Us

Request Information

Loading...