Master of Science in Macromolecular Science and Engineering

They are designed to increase the student’s knowledge of macromolecular science and of his or her own basic area of scientific interest, with application to specific polymer research problems. Research programs derive particular benefit from close cooperation with graduate programs in chemistry, physics, materials science, chemical engineering, biological sciences, and other engineering areas. The interdisciplinary academic structure allows the faculty to fit the individual program to the student’s background and career plans. Basic and advanced courses are offered in polymer synthesis, physical chemistry, physics, biopolymers, and applied polymer science and engineering. A laboratory course in polymer characterization instructs students in the use of modern experimental techniques and equipment. Graduate students are also encouraged to take advanced course work in polymer solid state physics, physical chemistry, synthesis, rheology, and polymer processing. The department also offers, in conjunction with the School of Medicine, a six- to seven-year MD/PhD program for students interested in the application of polymers and plastics to medicine, as well as for students interested in a molecular structural basis of medicine, particularly related to connective tissues, biomechanics, aging, pharmaceuticals, and blood behavior. Initiated in 1977, it is the only program of its kind in the nation. Master of Science Master’s Thesis (Plan A) The minimum requirement to complete a master’s degree under Plan A is 27 hours. Of the 27 hours, at least 18 hours must be coursework, and 9 hours must be EMAC 651 Thesis M.S. (thesis research). At least 18 semester hours of coursework, including thesis, must be at the 400 level or higher. All Plan A MS students must take 6 credits of departmental fundamentals courses including the lab component. Please note: Once a student begins registration of EMAC 651 Thesis M.S., the student must register for at least one credit hour of this course every semester until graduation. The normal residency period for an MS degree is 2 years. For completion of master’s degree Plan A, an oral examination (defense) of the master’s thesis is required. The examination is conducted by a committee of three university faculty members. The candidate’s thesis advisor usually serves as the chair of the examining committee. The chair of the department or the curricular program faculty appoints members of the committee. The examining committee must agree unanimously that the candidate has passed the thesis examination. Master’s Comprehensive (Plan B) The master's Plan B program is available for individuals who live out-of-state or are working full-time. A research report and oral examination is required before graduation. This option requires 27 total credit hours; categorized by the following: 3-6 cr. hrs. need to be project credit (independent study) which needs to be approved by advisor 21-24 course credits (of which 9 must be based in Macromolecular Science); and 6 core course credits. Each candidate for the master’s degree under Plan B must satisfactorily pass a comprehensive examination, which is administered by the department or curricular program committee. The examination may be written or oral or both. A student must be registered during the semester in which any part of the comprehensive examination is taken. If not registered for other courses, the student will be required to register for one semester hour of EXAM 600 Master's Comprehensive Exam, before taking the examination. Elective and core courses can be taken via Distance Learning (ITN) or by transfer (transfers need to be approved by chair of department and dean of graduate studies; core courses also needs instructors' approval).