Academic Advising
in the College of Arts & Science
What Can I Do With a Major in Paper Science & Engineering?
This major is a science/engineering oriented program requiring chemistry, physics, mathematics, statistics, chemical engineering, and systems analysis in addition to specialized courses in paper science. Students in the program learn how to apply fundamental scientific and engineering principles to solve industrial problems.
The department offers the Bachelor of Science in Paper Science and Engineering degree. This program is ABET accredited. Thus graduates can take State Board examinations to become licensed professional engineers.
Interests
This course of study is excellent for students who are interested in science and engineering and also have a desire to develop and interpret experimental data, solve mathematical problems, and apply these skills toward creatively solving industrial and/or research problems. A related program in engineering management is also available for students who also have interests in business management.
Competencies
- Communication
- Preparing technical reports
Organizing/reporting data
Designing charts/graphs
Informing/explaining
Reporting
Writing technical information
Communicating orally/formal & informal
Communicating interpersonally on multiple levels - Interpersonal Skills
- Working as part of a team
Project management
Developing common goals - Computational
- Processing data
Solving quantitative problems
Experimental design
Data analysis
Sampling for surveys/marketing
Mathematical modeling and simulation - Analytical
- Comparing factors
Thinking logically
Summarizing research findings
Attending to detail
Testing an idea/hypothesis
Developing theories
Clarifying problems
Organizing ideas/materials - Investigative
- Reviewing relevant data
Applying concepts
Utilizing formulas
Identifying problems
Gathering information
Perceiving patterns/structures - Technical
- Knowing mechanical, electrical, and optical equipment
Using computer technology
Knowledge of Total Quality Management and its application
Opportunities - Careers
A majority of graduates accept entry-level positions with paper companies as process/project engineers, environmental engineers, production supervisors, or quality control specialists, while others either become technical sales or technical service engineers for suppliers of chemicals, computer process control engineers, or research engineers. Graduates in paper science and engineering receive typical engineering level starting salaries, which are in the highest range of any undergraduate program at Miami University. Placement is typically 100%.
Opportunities - Graduate/Professional School
Students may chose to continue their education in paper science and engineering, or they may pursue advanced degrees in business, science, engineering, or medicine, or law.
Opportunities - Experiential
All students in paper science and engineering gain some form of industry experience prior to graduation, whether it be through the five-year co-op program in which students alternate semesters of study with semesters of work in the paper industry, or through summer internships following their sophomore and junior years. Students are also encouraged to get involved with student organizations such as the Miami Chapter of the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI) and the Paper Industry Management Association (PIMA).
Sources of Additional Information
- Department of Paper & Chemical Engineering (64 Engineering Bldg., 529-0760)
- * Curriculum Requirements
- * Career Opportunities
- Student Counseling Service (195 Health Services Building, 529-4634)
- * Career Counseling
* Career Assistance Center
* Computerized Career Development Program
* Dictionary of Occupational Titles
* Occupational Outlook Handbook - School of Engineering & Applied Science (106 Benton Hall, 529-0700)
- * Miami Plan Requirements
- * Course Selection
* Career Decision Making - Office of Career Services (241 Hoyt Hall, 529-3831)
- * Career Resource Center
* Dictionary of Occupational Titles
* Occupational Outlook Handbook
Developed by the School of Engineering and Applied Science and the academic departmental offices with adaptations from Liberal Arts and Sciences - Skills - Career Opportunities, Career Planning and Placement Office, University of Michigan.