Students will explore gravure and flexography technologies, and learn to evaluate applicable designs. Extensive hands-on experience is included. Students will create pressure sensitive label designs, take command of a flexo press, and print labels.

Effective, efficient, and safe laboratory practices that result in professional data analysis and reports are the hallmark of packaging professionals and are a core expectation of master's level students in the applied sciences. This requires deep understanding of metrology, applications, best practices, and stewardship of laboratory equipment and materials. In this course, learners are oriented to the packaging laboratories and equipment in the department for physical and optical materials testing, including the applications, standard operating procedures, metrics, industry standards, and specifications supporting them. Effective use of laboratory equipment and instruments, including sample selection and preparation, are emphasized. Analysis of laboratory-based data supported by measurement systems analysis techniques is applied to physical and optical testing methods and procedures, supporting learner deliverables including written laboratory reports and research posters.

Package printing and converting are multifaceted manufacturing processes and critical components of consumer-facing packaging. This course emphasizes efficient package printing production workflows that meet and exceed brand owner expectations while maintaining printing industry standards. Students will explore a broad range of materials and technologies used for both mass production and lower-volume applications, including customization and prototyping. Topics include premedia applications, ink systems, color reproduction, embellishment techniques, and converting technologies. Through lectures and hands-on laboratory exercises, learners will gain proficiency in printing on paper, board, plastics, and other substrates using conventional and digital imaging technologies, preparing them to be knowledgeable in industry-relevant package printing and converting practices.

The capstone course provides students the opportunity to combine and incorporate learnings gained in coursework and other experiences and apply this knowledge in a written capstone project relevant to the graphic communication and allied industries. Topic must be approved course instructor.