An in-depth review of packaging. The course will include historical perspectives of packaging. Students will explore the functions of packaging and the materials, processes, and technology employed to protect goods during handling, shipment, and storage. A brief review of container types, package design and development, and research and testing are presented, along with information about economic importance, social implications, and packaging as a profession. Students will research historical, current, and future packages to gain better insight into the world of packaging.

This course introduces paper, glass and metal materials in packaging context. The course covers raw material extraction, processing and production methods, and conversion techniques for paper, metal and glass materials. Material properties, test methods, and vocabulary related to the materials and their transformation are emphasized. Environmental concerns related to the lifecycle of these materials are also addressed. This course also includes an overview of finished paper, metal, and glass packaging including pressurized packaging/aerosol systems.

This course introduces students to the principles of designing secondary packaging and unit loads for effective product distribution. Emphasis is placed on understanding the physical hazards to products and packaging in shipping and storage environments, developing protective shipping containers, and applying standardized test methods to evaluate package performance. Students will also examine converting processes and cost considerations to support efficient and sustainable distribution packaging design.

This course provides a technical and system-based exploration of packaging sustainability within the context of environmental impact. Students will learn the foundation of life cycle assessment (LCA) methodologies to evaluate the environmental performance of packaging materials and systems. Emphasis is placed on material selection, energy use, emissions, waste generation, and strategies for circularity across the packaging life cycle. Case studies and current industry practices are examined to highlight barriers and opportunities in reducing environmental burdens. Students will also discuss broader social and regulatory drivers influencing sustainable packaging. Students may not take and receive credit for this course and PACK-630x; students may receive credit for PACK-530 or PACK-630x.

The environmental impact of packaging is a major concern for brand owners, manufacturers, and consumers. Issues such as resource depletion, climate change, pollution, and public health increasingly influence business decisions. This course explores these influences by examining the impact of packaging throughout its life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life management. By evaluating packaging processes, regulatory frameworks, and sustainable design principles, learners will conduct life cycle assessments and analyze industry case studies across various materials to develop informed, sustainable packaging solutions that balance functionality, costs, and ecological responsibility. Emerging trends and future challenges in sustainable packaging are investigated. Emphasis is placed on integrating environmental considerations into packaging design decisions to support circular economy principles and reduce environmental impact across the supply chain. Students may take and receive credit for PACK-530 or PACK-630, not both.

The Packaging Science Capstone course enables students to integrate knowledge from previous coursework and professional experiences into a comprehensive empirical project resulting in a written deliverable in APA style representing meaningful, empirical research relevant to packaging science. The proposed topic, as represented by a formal research proposal, must be approved by the course instructor before enrollment in the course. Students are required to meet with their advisor at least every other week throughout the term.