Polymer Engineering (PhD)

The doctorate in Polymer Engineering is awarded to a student after the completion of a prescribed program of course studies, preliminary examinations and a research project that leads to the preparation of a written dissertation describing the research in a scholarly manner. A student and his/her adviser can plan any additional courses necessary to aid in the dissertation research project and/or that allow for the academic and professional growth of the student. A master’s degree is not a prerequisite for the doctorate; however, the first year of study will be substantially the same for both the master’s and the doctoral student.

Admission Requirements

• GRE
• Three letters of professional recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Curriculum Vita or Resume preferred but not required

Application Deadline

The deadline for priority consideration of fully completed application files is December 1st each year. The deadline for regular admission consideration is January 15th. Exceptional candidates may be considered after the January 15th deadline. 

Additional Information

The Department of Polymer Engineering currently supports all first year, full-time doctoral students by teaching assistantships (TA).  Students may be assigned to work in departments outside the College of Polymer Science & Polymer Engineering.  International students must meet the TOEFL standards as set forth above to qualify for funding.  After the first year, funds for assistantship support are available from several principal sources including: The University of Akron Graduate School; externally funded research activities such as grants or contracts obtained by faculty members; and financial gifts from companies, private donors, or government and public foundations that allow for student fellowships, scholarships, or other awards.

Assistantship/Scholarship Information

Not all departments offer graduate assistantships. Students should inquire with the department directly to determine assistantship availability.

Financial Aid Information

Paying for college is a vital part of the education process. It is important to be informed of the many sources of aid available. Student loans are available to degree-seeking graduate students. Information on student loans can be found through the Office of Student Financial Aid. The Office of Student Financial Aid is located in Simmons Hall.

Tuition and Fees

Current tuition and fees schedules can be found through the Office of Student Accounts.