UMass PSE - Defining the frontiers of polymers and soft materials through research, scholarship and community.
We provide a broad education, spanning core principles in synthetic chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science, and engineering.
PSE is a dynamic and inclusive department with an international reputation for defining the frontiers of polymer science and engineering research. Our primary mission is to educate the future leaders in our field, through impactful research programs and teaching endeavors.
- Top-notch research and education are the central value of PSE.
- PSE is a family—We offer multiple mentoring and networking opportunities.
- Graduate placement and outcomes after PSE program are outstanding.
PSE courses at the graduate level are available to all UMass graduate students, and such courses are frequently taught as interdisciplinary efforts involving non-PSE faculty. These courses are also available to advanced undergraduates within the University and Five College Area with instructor permission. Undergraduates from across the country often participate in federally-funded summer research programs. One or two day short courses on focused academic topics such as electron microscopy are regularly taught within departmental facilities to industrial scientists and the public.
The department, via both its faculty and students, also participates in educational outreach beyond the local university community. PSE graduate students are heavily involved in K-12 educational activities that introduce younger students to polymers in various tailored ways. Many of these programs take place in local schools. In addition, each year PSE faculty teach short courses on cutting edge science and engineering topics at professional meetings across the country.
