Packaging Science Bachelor of Science Degree
Pursue an innovative packaging science degree where you’ll learn how to design, develop, and test sustainable product packaging for a variety of industries including food, medical products, and consumer goods.
Overview for Packaging Science BS
Pursue a Bachelor of Science in Packaging Science at RIT
Gain Real-World Experience: Two blocks of cooperative education provide you with hands-on, full-time paid work experience in the packaging science industry.
Accelerated Degree Option: The opportunity to enroll in a combined bachelor’s/master’s option gives you a competitive advantage in your field.
Career Connections: A packaging career fair connects our packaging science majors with more than 25+ employers in the packaging industry.
Jobs at Industry-Leading Companies: Recent graduates are employed at Tesla, Starbucks, Hasbro, KraftHeinz, PepsiCo, Milwaukee Tool, Revlon, American Packaging Corporation, Colgate-Palmolive, Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies, and more.
Fast Track Your Success: Earn a BS degree and an MBA in as few as five years with our +MBA program.
STEM-OPT Visa Eligible: The STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows full-time, on-campus international students on an F-1 student visa to stay and work in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation.
What you can do with a degree in Packaging Science?
RIT’s Packaging Science Degree
RIT’s packaging science major is a dynamic major that integrates engineering, creative design, and business to develop and design product packaging for a range of consumer goods. During the conceptualization, design, and development of product packaging, you will learn to weigh factors such as:
- Keeping products safe from damage during transportation, especially in e-commerce.
- Maintaining food freshness and safety.
- Implementing eco-friendly, sustainable practices for post-use recycling and reuse.
- Appealing to consumers at the point of purchase.
- Communicating product information.
- Sustaining transportation efficiency.
Explore Our Packaging Engineering Curriculum
Our bachelor of science in packaging science is one of the most unique and well-respected in the country. You’ll study course work that combines technology, art, business, and design in these key areas:
- Design: Size, shape, sustainability, graphics, and color all contribute to creating highly marketable packaging designs that are not only innovative but encourage interactivity and interest for the consumer..
- Sustainability: New developments in materials and processes are a growing way for companies to reduce the environmental impact and the ecological footprint of product packaging. Eco-friendly solutions can protect the environment, encourage biodegradable packaging, and ensure post-use recycling and reuse.
- Engineering: with our packaging engineering curriculum, you’ll combine principles of engineering and physics (such as shock, vibration, and compression) with materials science (paper, polymers, glass, metal and other materials) to develop packaging structures and container systems that can protect and sustain products, medical devices, consumer goods and food products during transportation, distribution, display, and purchase.
- Marketing: Engaging consumers, understanding their purchasing behavior, analyzing marketing data and intelligence, and using packaging as a marketing tool can all impact the success of a product. You’ll learn the business and marketing side of packaging, through courses in marketing, communication, consumer behavior, and more.
Hands-On Experience to Gain Real-World Skills
The packaging science degree also includes:
- Extensive laboratory work: Explore packaging solutions and tackle real-life problem-solving in hands-on lab assignments that take place in state-of-the-art facilities.
- Two blocks of cooperative education: RIT’s packaging science degree is the only program in the country that requires its students to complete cooperative education, allowing them to gain real-world experience and broaden their industry contacts through paid cooperative education and internships.
Packaging Science Industry Advisory Board
The Industry Advisory Board contributes professional and technical expertise to the packaging science degree, which strengthens and develops the curriculum to reflect the dynamics and growth of the industry.
Furthering Your Education in Packaging Science
RIT’s Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.
- Packaging Science BS/Packaging Science MS: In this combined accelerated dual degree you will develop a solid background in packaging science, and with our packaging science MS you will dig deeper and do research in packaging development, sustainable packaging and advanced packaging design. This is perfect for students who would like to both solve current packaging problems and develop new sustainable solutions for the future.
- Packaging Science BS/Materials Science and Engineering MS: Propel your career in packaging innovation with the strategic combination of a BS in packaging science followed by a master's in materials science and engineering. This path equips you with a deep understanding of both the design and functionality of packaging, alongside the expertise to create and optimize the materials used. The packaging science curriculum equips you with essential knowledge of material selection, performance, and sustainability. Building on that foundation, the master's program delves into advanced material properties, processing techniques, and cutting-edge research. With this combined expertise, you'll be uniquely positioned to develop next-generation packaging solutions that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing, but also utilize innovative materials that address critical challenges like sustainability and performance. Graduates are recruited at companies such as Procter & Gamble, Unilever, Amazon, FedEd, Kraft Heinz, Pepsico, and in a range of industries, including pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers, among others.
- +1 MBA Early Acceptance Pathway: Successful RIT applicants who are offered admission into the BS degree in packaging science as an incoming first-year student may also be offered conditional early acceptance into the +1 MBA Early Acceptance Pathway. This option enables you to earn both your BS degree and an MBA in as little as five years of study. Learn how the +1 MBA Early Acceptance Pathway can help you add a competitive advantage to your studies.
- +1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor’s degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate your learning and position you for success. Both MBA options are perfect for students with deeper interest in the marketing, supply chain and business management aspects of packaging.
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Careers and Experiential Learning
Typical Job Titles
| Packaging Engineer | Packaging Designer | Sustainable Packaging Manager |
| Package Developer | Product Engineer | Packaging Scientist |
| Packaging Sales | Structural Designer | Packaging and Display Sales |
| Packaging Development Engineer | Packaging Project Management Engineer |
Industries
Cooperative Education
What’s different about an RIT education? It’s the career experience you gain by completing cooperative education and internships with top companies in every single industry. You’ll earn more than a degree. You’ll gain real-world career experience that sets you apart. It’s exposure–early and often–to a variety of professional work environments, career paths, and industries.
Co-ops and internships take your knowledge and turn it into know-how. Your engineering co-ops will provide hands-on experience that enables you to apply your engineering knowledge in professional settings while you make valuable connections between classwork and real-world applications.
In the packaging engineering degree, you'll complete two required blocks of co-op. You'll gain extensive career experience through full-time, paid co-op positions in companies that design and develop packaging for cosmetics and health products, pharmaceuticals and medical products, food and beverages, tools and equipment for manufacturing, toys, and other consumer goods, and more. You’ll also develop your professional skills and broaden your industry contacts.
Companies that employ our packaging science students for co-ops include Colgate-Palmolive, CONMED, CooperVision, GlaxoSmithKline, Hammer Packaging, Hasbro, Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc., Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies, Merck & Co., Inc., Milwaukee Tool, PepsiCo, Revlon, and Stanley Black & Decker, to name a few.
Jobs for Packaging Engineers and Packaging Designers
RIT’s packaging engineering degree prepares you for employment in areas such as package development, packaging design, sales, purchasing, structural design, production, research, and marketing. The major was developed as a result of a close and long-established relationship between the packaging industry and RIT. This multi-billion-dollar industry is experiencing dynamic growth and packaging engineers and packaging designers with wide-ranging skills and expertise are in demand.
Packaging Science Career Fair
RIT hosts a packaging science-specific career fair that connects packaging science majors with corporations, organizations, design firms, and more, who hire packaging professionals. During this day-long event, you’ll be able to network with company representatives and interview directly for open co-op and permanent employment positions.
Featured Work and Profiles
-
Alumna Brews Success at Keurig Dr Pepper
Anna Valentine ’17 (packaging science) designs and develops packaging for Keurig Dr Pepper and helps with product development.
Read More about Alumna Brews Success at Keurig Dr Pepper -
Alumna brews success at Keurig Dr Pepper
Anna is acquiring a rich package of skills in that industry as a principal scientist on the Research and Development (R&D) Breakthrough Development team at Keurig Dr Pepper.
Read More about Alumna brews success at Keurig Dr Pepper -
Packaging students organize Packaging Jamboree national conference
The fourth-year packaging students volunteered to be co-chairs of Packaging Jamboree, the national event that will bring nearly 200 university students, faculty and regional packaging...
Read More about Packaging students organize Packaging Jamboree national conference -
Packaging Science Student places Top 3 in National Competition
Spectrum News highlights the team behind the packaging for Grovey Garlic, a sustainable hexagon-shaped structure created without glue.
Read More about Packaging Science Student places Top 3 in National Competition -
Environmental responsibility in the food sector
Daniel Johnson WXXI talks to professor Daniel Johnson in the Department of Packaging and Graphic Media Science about climate-friendly food sector practices.
Read More about Environmental responsibility in the food sector -
RIT student team named finalists in national packaging design challenge
Students’ packaging design is a top three finalist in the annual Paperboard Packaging Student Design Challenge. The team includes Malena Juif, a fourth-year packaging science student. “You...
Read More about RIT student team named finalists in national packaging design challenge
Curriculum for 2024-2025 for Packaging Science BS
Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements
Packaging Science, BS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| CHMG-141 | General & Analytical Chemistry I (General Education) |
3 |
This is a general chemistry course for students in the life and physical sciences. College chemistry is presented as a science based on empirical evidence that is placed into the context of conceptual, visual, and mathematical models. Students will learn the concepts, symbolism, and fundamental tools of chemistry necessary to carry on a discourse in the language of chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the transformation of these bonds through chemical reactions. The fundamentals of organic chemistry are introduced throughout the course to emphasize the connection between chemistry and the other sciences. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| CHMG-145 | General & Analytical Chemistry I Lab (General Education) |
1 |
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-141 lecture material. The course emphasizes laboratory techniques and data analysis skills. Topics include: gravimetric, volumetric, thermal, titration and spectrophotometric analyses, and the use of these techniques to analyze chemical reactions. (Corequisite: CHMG-141 or CHMG-131 or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| MATH-171 | Calculus A (General Education – Mathematical Perspective A) |
3 |
This is the first course in a three-course sequence (COS-MATH-171, -172, -173). This course includes a study of precalculus, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions, continuity, and differentiability. Limits of functions are used to study continuity and differentiability. The study of the derivative includes the definition, basic rules, and implicit differentiation. Applications of the derivative include optimization and related-rates problems. (Prerequisites: Completion of the math placement exam or C- or better in MATH-111 or C- or better in ((NMTH-260 or NMTH-272 or NMTH-275) and NMTH-220) or equivalent course.) Lecture 5 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| MATH-172 | Calculus B (General Education – Mathematical Perspective B) |
3 |
This is the second course in three-course sequence (COS-MATH-171, -172, -173). The course includes Riemann sums, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, techniques of integration, and applications of the definite integral. The techniques of integration include substitution and integration by parts. The applications of the definite integral include areas between curves, and the calculation of volume. (Prerequisites: C- or better in MATH-171 or 1016-171T or 1016-281 or 1016-231 or equivalent course.) Lecture 5 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| MEDG-106 | Microbiology of Health and Disease (General Education- Scientific Principles Perspective) |
3 |
An introductory course in microbiology including its history, significant contributions to medicine and history, as well as a survey of microbiological organisms as they relate to disease, industry and biotechnology. (any course in Biology) Lecture 3 (Spring). | ||
| PACK-101 | Introduction to Packaging |
1 |
An in-depth overview 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. Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-151 | Packaging Design I |
3 |
The course develops knowledge of engineering design graphics and skills of package structure design. Topics covered are basics of engineering design graphics, technical sketch, project plan, design matrix and computer aided design (CAD). Emphasis is given to use SolidWorks - CAD software to design typical packaging structures. The 10-week design project focuses on developing a packaging structure from an idea to a 3D virtual prototype. Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). | ||
| PACK-152 | Packaging Design II |
3 |
The course develops knowledge and skills in applying two computer software packages for packaging design: Artios CAD and Adobe Illustrator. Topics covered are builder and rebuilder, solid modeling and drawing, animation, coloring, and painting. Emphasis is given to create a typical paperboard based carton with a proper structure and color usage. (Co-requisites: PACK-101 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring). | ||
| UWRT-150 | Writing Seminar (WI) (General Education – FYW) |
3 |
Writing Seminar is a three-credit course limited to 19 students per section. The course is designed to develop first-year students’ proficiency in analytical and rhetorical reading and writing, and critical thinking. Students will read, understand, and interpret a variety of non-fiction texts representing different cultural perspectives and/or academic disciplines. These texts are designed to challenge students intellectually and to stimulate their writing for a variety of contexts and purposes. Through inquiry-based assignment sequences, students will develop academic research and literacy practices that will be further strengthened throughout their academic careers. Particular attention will be given to the writing process, including an emphasis on teacher-student conferencing, critical self-assessment, class discussion, peer review, formal and informal writing, research, and revision. Small class size promotes frequent student-instructor and student-student interaction. The course also emphasizes the principles of intellectual property and academic integrity for both current academic and future professional writing. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| YOPS-10 | RIT 365: RIT Connections |
0 |
RIT 365 students participate in experiential learning opportunities designed to launch them into their career at RIT, support them in making multiple and varied connections across the university, and immerse them in processes of competency development. Students will plan for and reflect on their first-year experiences, receive feedback, and develop a personal plan for future action in order to develop foundational self-awareness and recognize broad-based professional competencies. (This class is restricted to incoming 1st year or global campus students.) Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
General Education – Artistic Perspective |
3 | |
General Education – Ethical Perspective |
3 | |
| Second Year | ||
| CHMG-123 | Chemistry of Materials (General Education) |
3 |
The course will address three fundamental concepts of general chemistry by covering three aspects of all chemical reactions: kinetics, equilibrium and thermodynamics. Acid/base and oxidation/reductions will be discussed. The chemistry of metals, ceramics and synthetic polymers will be covered, including electrochemistry and a brief overview of organic chemistry. (Prerequisites: CHMG-121 or CHMG-131 or CHMG-141 or equivalent courses.) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| CHMG-201 | Introduction to Organic Polymer Technology (General Education) |
3 |
The first part of the course covers the fundamentals of organic chemistry. The organization, nomenclature, structure, bonding and basic reactions of organic compounds will be discussed, in particular those concepts that are relevant to understand polymer chemistry. The second part of the course will introduce the nomenclature and classification of synthetic polymers. The reactions leading to the formation of relevant polymers, their chemical and physical behavior, and some of their many applications will be discussed. (Prerequisites: CHMG-121 or CHMG-131 or CHMG-141 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall). | ||
| PACK-95 | Career Seminar |
0 |
This course is an introduction to the cooperative educational placement process at RIT, the programs in the department and RIT resources. Topics include engineering technology vs. engineering, review of resources available at RIT, the co-operative education placement process, and the ethical expectations of employers for co-op students and RIT during a job search. Seminar 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-211 | Packaging Metals & Plastics |
3 |
The study of packaging materials from extraction through conversion and production, physical and chemical properties and uses. Emphasis is on plastics and metals used in packaging and other component materials. Recognized standard testing procedures are presented and students gain practical experience in the operation of various testing instruments, interpretation of results, and evaluation of properties and performance characteristics. (Co-requisites: PACK-101 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-212 | Packaging Paper & Glass |
3 |
The manufacture, physical and chemical properties, and uses of common packaging materials. Emphasis is on paper, paperboard, wood, glass, and pressurized packaging systems used in packaging applications. Standard testing procedures will be presented as well as instruction on testing equipment operation, data interpretation, evaluation of properties, and performance. (Co-requisites: PACK-101 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-311 | Containers I |
3 |
A detailed study of primary packages that includes the history, manufacturing processes, characteristics, and applications for containers in direct contact with the product. Structural design, chemical compatibility, and suitability of container for intended use are analyzed for basic container types. Students practice structural design and testing of prototype containers. Primary emphasis is on flexible paper, foil, plastic, and laminated materials and on selected processing techniques. Topics to include folding cartons, heat seal technology and test methodologies, permeability theory, modeling, and empirical testing. (Prerequisites: PACK-151 and PACK-211 and PACK-212 or equivalent courses.
Co-requisites: PACK-152 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-312 | Containers II |
3 |
This course is a detailed study of primary packages. History, manufacturing processes characteristics, and applications for containers in direct contact with the product. Structural design, chemical compatibility, and suitability of container for intended use are analyzed for basic container types. Students practice structural design and testing of prototype containers. Primary emphasis is on rigid paperboard, glass, plastic, and metal containers. (Prerequisites: PACK-151 and PACK-211 and PACK-212 or equivalent courses.
Co-requisites: PACK-152 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-499 | Co-op Work Experience (summer) |
0 |
Off-campus work in an approved salaried position with cooperating company. Department permission is required. (Third year status) (A minimum of 3rd year standing is required to enroll.) CO OP (Fall, Spring). | ||
| STAT-145 | Introduction to Statistics I (General Education) |
3 |
This course introduces statistical methods of extracting meaning from data, and basic inferential statistics. Topics covered include data and data integrity, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, numeric summary measures, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. The emphasis of the course is on statistical thinking rather than computation. Statistical software is used. (Prerequisites: Any 100 level MATH course, or NMTH-260 or NMTH-272 or NMTH-275 or (NMTH-250 with a C- or better) or a Math Placement Exam score of at least 35.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| STAT-146 | Introduction to Statistics II (General Education) |
4 |
This course is an elementary introduction to the topics of regression and analysis of variance. The statistical software package Minitab will be used to reinforce these techniques. The focus of this course is on business applications. This is a general introductory statistics course and is intended for a broad range of programs. (Prerequisites: STAT-145 or equivalent course.) Lecture 6 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
General Education – Global Perspective |
3 | |
General Education – Social Perspective |
3 | |
| Third Year | ||
| MKTG-230 | Principles of Marketing |
3 |
An introduction to the field of marketing, stressing its role in the organization and society. Emphasis is on determining customer needs and wants and how the marketer can satisfy those needs through the controllable marketing variables of product, price, promotion and distribution. (This class is restricted to undergraduate students with at least 2nd year standing.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| PACK-420 | Technical Communications (WI-PR) |
3 |
An introduction to the principles of effective written technical communication for professional environments. Topics include memos, business letters, summary activity reports, technical proposals, and research papers. (Pre-requisites: This course is restricted to PACK-BS or NMEP-BS students.
Co-requisites: First Year Writing (FYW).) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-421 | Packaging for Distribution |
3 |
An exploration of different shipping, storage, and use environments common to various products and packages. Structural design of shipping containers for product physical protection and methods for testing and predicting package performance are studied. Package converting processes will be studied to reinforce the economics of efficient and sustainable package design. (Prerequisites: PACK-311 and PACK-312 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-430 | Packaging Regulations |
3 |
This course begins with an overview of government laws and regulations applicable to the packaging industry. Students will then gain the hierarchical impact that regulations have on the global supply chain, quality systems, patent innovation, and workplace safety. (Prerequisites: (PACK-301 and PACK-302 ) or (PACK-311 and PACK-312) or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-470 | Food Packaging |
3 |
Study of food products, common methods of processing and preservation, impact on quality and nutritional value of the product, and the relationships with common packaging methods and distribution practices. Students required to deliver a project to support the objectives of this course. (Prerequisites: PACK-311 and PACK-312 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall). | ||
| PACK-499 | Co-op Work Experience (summer) |
0 |
Off-campus work in an approved salaried position with cooperating company. Department permission is required. (Third year status) (A minimum of 3rd year standing is required to enroll.) CO OP (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PHYS-111 | College Physics I (General Education – Natural Science Inquiry Perspective) |
4 |
This is an introductory course in algebra-based physics focusing on mechanics and waves. Topics include kinematics, planar motion, Newton’s laws, gravitation; rotational kinematics and dynamics; work and energy; momentum and impulse; conservation laws; simple harmonic motion; waves; data presentation/analysis and error propagation. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings. Attendance at the scheduled evening sessions of this class is required for exams. There will be 2 or 3 of these evening exams during the semester. Competency in algebra, geometry and trigonometry is required. Lab 4, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| PACK-471 | Packaging Supply Chain |
|
Market structures are analyzed in order to develop an understanding of how packaging relates to the general economy. Students will learn how market traded derivatives are utilized to protect against price volatility of packaging raw materials, utilization of Purchase Price Cost Analysis to predict packaging pricing and price movements. Packaging contract analysis and packaging pricing formula based pricing will be studied. Students are instructed in the use of basic pricing reference materials for research purposes. Lecture 3 (Spring). | ||
| DECS-310 | Operations Management |
|
A survey of operations and supply chain management that relates to both service- and goods- producing organizations. Topics include operations and supply chain strategies; ethical behavior; forecasting; product and service design, including innovation and sustainability; capacity and inventory management; lean operations; managing projects; quality assurance; global supply chains; and the impacts of technology. (Prerequisites: STAT-145 or MATH-251 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
General Education – Immersion 1 |
3 | |
General Education – Elective |
3 | |
Environmental Elective † |
3 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| PACK-422 | Dynamics and Protective Packaging |
3 |
The course defines the factors involved in assessing the potential damage to packaged items resulting from impact and vibration forces in the handling, transport and storage environments. Students will be instructed in the use of basic shock and vibration test equipment, apply standard test protocols and develop specific testing protocols from measured field data. Based on data generated from testing activities, students will develop cushion designs to protect sensitive product components. (Prerequisites: PACK-421 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-481 | Packaging for Marketing and End Use |
3 |
The interrelationship between packaging and marketing, detailing how the retail consumer package can be used as a marketing tool. Concentrates on a systematic approach to developing an optimum package for a given product to meet the demands of the retail market and end user. Students gain practice in the development of a complete package system. (Prerequisites: PACK-421 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| MAAT-368 | Gravure and Flexography |
|
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. Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Spring). | ||
| MAAT-541 | Digital Print Processes |
|
Students who take this course will understand how digital printing technologies work, what they are capable of doing, and how these technologies are used commercially. Students will analyze the factors driving the explosive growth of digital printing, including how the economics of digital and conventional printing compare. The concepts taught in the classroom are reinforced through hands-on labs and field trips to digital printers and equipment suppliers. This course is cross-listed with PPRT-641; students may receive credit for MAAT-541 or PPRT-641, not both. (Not if PPRT-641) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Fall). | ||
| MAAT-558 | Package Printing |
|
Students who take this course will understand how package-printing technologies work, and how they are used to print bags, labels, cartons, cans, boxes, and bottles. Students will apply a packaging printing workflow to produce labels and folding cartons of their own design. Finally, cost analyses of package printing using various technologies is discussed. This course is cross-listed with PPRT-688; students may receive credit for MAAT-558 or PPRT-688, not both. (Degree-seeking undergraduate students. Students may not take and receive credit for MAAT-558 and PPRT-688. If you have earned credit for MAAT-558 or you are currently enrolled in PPRT-688 you will not be permitted to enroll in MAAT-558.) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Spring). | ||
Packaging Electives |
6 | |
General Education – Immersion 2, 3 |
6 | |
Open Electives |
9 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 121 |
|
Please see General Education Curriculum (GE) for more information.
Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.
* Students must complete two blocks of cooperative education in addition to course work.
† Students may choose one of the following environmental elective courses: Concepts of Environmental Science (ENVS-101), Environment and Society (STSO-220), or Environmental Policy (STSO-421).
Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees
The curriculum below outlines the typical course sequence(s) for combined accelerated degrees available with this bachelor’s degree.
Packaging Science, BS degree, Packaging Science, MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| CHMG-141 | General & Analytical Chemistry I (General Education) |
3 |
This is a general chemistry course for students in the life and physical sciences. College chemistry is presented as a science based on empirical evidence that is placed into the context of conceptual, visual, and mathematical models. Students will learn the concepts, symbolism, and fundamental tools of chemistry necessary to carry on a discourse in the language of chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the transformation of these bonds through chemical reactions. The fundamentals of organic chemistry are introduced throughout the course to emphasize the connection between chemistry and the other sciences. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| CHMG-145 | General & Analytical Chemistry I Lab (General Education) |
1 |
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-141 lecture material. The course emphasizes laboratory techniques and data analysis skills. Topics include: gravimetric, volumetric, thermal, titration and spectrophotometric analyses, and the use of these techniques to analyze chemical reactions. (Corequisite: CHMG-141 or CHMG-131 or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| MATH-171 | Calculus A (General Education – Mathematical Perspective A) |
3 |
This is the first course in a three-course sequence (COS-MATH-171, -172, -173). This course includes a study of precalculus, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions, continuity, and differentiability. Limits of functions are used to study continuity and differentiability. The study of the derivative includes the definition, basic rules, and implicit differentiation. Applications of the derivative include optimization and related-rates problems. (Prerequisites: Completion of the math placement exam or C- or better in MATH-111 or C- or better in ((NMTH-260 or NMTH-272 or NMTH-275) and NMTH-220) or equivalent course.) Lecture 5 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| MATH-172 | Calculus B (General Education – Mathematical Perspective B) |
3 |
This is the second course in three-course sequence (COS-MATH-171, -172, -173). The course includes Riemann sums, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, techniques of integration, and applications of the definite integral. The techniques of integration include substitution and integration by parts. The applications of the definite integral include areas between curves, and the calculation of volume. (Prerequisites: C- or better in MATH-171 or 1016-171T or 1016-281 or 1016-231 or equivalent course.) Lecture 5 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| MEDG-106 | Microbiology of Health And Disease (General Education – Scientific Principles Perspective) |
3 |
An introductory course in microbiology including its history, significant contributions to medicine and history, as well as a survey of microbiological organisms as they relate to disease, industry and biotechnology. (any course in Biology) Lecture 3 (Spring). | ||
| PACK-101 | Introduction to Packaging |
1 |
An in-depth overview 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. Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-151 | Packaging Design I |
3 |
The course develops knowledge of engineering design graphics and skills of package structure design. Topics covered are basics of engineering design graphics, technical sketch, project plan, design matrix and computer aided design (CAD). Emphasis is given to use SolidWorks - CAD software to design typical packaging structures. The 10-week design project focuses on developing a packaging structure from an idea to a 3D virtual prototype. Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). | ||
| PACK-152 | Packaging Design II |
3 |
The course develops knowledge and skills in applying two computer software packages for packaging design: Artios CAD and Adobe Illustrator. Topics covered are builder and rebuilder, solid modeling and drawing, animation, coloring, and painting. Emphasis is given to create a typical paperboard based carton with a proper structure and color usage. (Co-requisites: PACK-101 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring). | ||
| UWRT-150 | FYW: Writing Seminar (WI) (General Education – First Year Writing) |
3 |
Writing Seminar is a three-credit course limited to 19 students per section. The course is designed to develop first-year students’ proficiency in analytical and rhetorical reading and writing, and critical thinking. Students will read, understand, and interpret a variety of non-fiction texts representing different cultural perspectives and/or academic disciplines. These texts are designed to challenge students intellectually and to stimulate their writing for a variety of contexts and purposes. Through inquiry-based assignment sequences, students will develop academic research and literacy practices that will be further strengthened throughout their academic careers. Particular attention will be given to the writing process, including an emphasis on teacher-student conferencing, critical self-assessment, class discussion, peer review, formal and informal writing, research, and revision. Small class size promotes frequent student-instructor and student-student interaction. The course also emphasizes the principles of intellectual property and academic integrity for both current academic and future professional writing. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| YOPS-10 | RIT 365: RIT Connections |
0 |
RIT 365 students participate in experiential learning opportunities designed to launch them into their career at RIT, support them in making multiple and varied connections across the university, and immerse them in processes of competency development. Students will plan for and reflect on their first-year experiences, receive feedback, and develop a personal plan for future action in order to develop foundational self-awareness and recognize broad-based professional competencies. (This class is restricted to incoming 1st year or global campus students.) Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
General Education – Artistic Perspective |
3 | |
General Education – Ethical Perspective |
3 | |
| Second Year | ||
| CHMG-123 | Chemistry of Materials |
3 |
The course will address three fundamental concepts of general chemistry by covering three aspects of all chemical reactions: kinetics, equilibrium and thermodynamics. Acid/base and oxidation/reductions will be discussed. The chemistry of metals, ceramics and synthetic polymers will be covered, including electrochemistry and a brief overview of organic chemistry. (Prerequisites: CHMG-121 or CHMG-131 or CHMG-141 or equivalent courses.) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| CHMG-201 | Introduction to Organic Polymer Technology (General Education) |
3 |
The first part of the course covers the fundamentals of organic chemistry. The organization, nomenclature, structure, bonding and basic reactions of organic compounds will be discussed, in particular those concepts that are relevant to understand polymer chemistry. The second part of the course will introduce the nomenclature and classification of synthetic polymers. The reactions leading to the formation of relevant polymers, their chemical and physical behavior, and some of their many applications will be discussed. (Prerequisites: CHMG-121 or CHMG-131 or CHMG-141 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall). | ||
| PACK-95 | Career Seminar |
0 |
This course is an introduction to the cooperative educational placement process at RIT, the programs in the department and RIT resources. Topics include engineering technology vs. engineering, review of resources available at RIT, the co-operative education placement process, and the ethical expectations of employers for co-op students and RIT during a job search. Seminar 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-211 | Packaging Metals & Plastics |
3 |
The study of packaging materials from extraction through conversion and production, physical and chemical properties and uses. Emphasis is on plastics and metals used in packaging and other component materials. Recognized standard testing procedures are presented and students gain practical experience in the operation of various testing instruments, interpretation of results, and evaluation of properties and performance characteristics. (Co-requisites: PACK-101 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-212 | Packaging Paper & Glass |
3 |
The manufacture, physical and chemical properties, and uses of common packaging materials. Emphasis is on paper, paperboard, wood, glass, and pressurized packaging systems used in packaging applications. Standard testing procedures will be presented as well as instruction on testing equipment operation, data interpretation, evaluation of properties, and performance. (Co-requisites: PACK-101 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-311 | Containers I |
3 |
A detailed study of primary packages that includes the history, manufacturing processes, characteristics, and applications for containers in direct contact with the product. Structural design, chemical compatibility, and suitability of container for intended use are analyzed for basic container types. Students practice structural design and testing of prototype containers. Primary emphasis is on flexible paper, foil, plastic, and laminated materials and on selected processing techniques. Topics to include folding cartons, heat seal technology and test methodologies, permeability theory, modeling, and empirical testing. (Prerequisites: PACK-151 and PACK-211 and PACK-212 or equivalent courses.
Co-requisites: PACK-152 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-312 | Containers II |
3 |
This course is a detailed study of primary packages. History, manufacturing processes characteristics, and applications for containers in direct contact with the product. Structural design, chemical compatibility, and suitability of container for intended use are analyzed for basic container types. Students practice structural design and testing of prototype containers. Primary emphasis is on rigid paperboard, glass, plastic, and metal containers. (Prerequisites: PACK-151 and PACK-211 and PACK-212 or equivalent courses.
Co-requisites: PACK-152 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-499 | Co-op Work Experience (summer) |
0 |
Off-campus work in an approved salaried position with cooperating company. Department permission is required. (Third year status) (A minimum of 3rd year standing is required to enroll.) CO OP (Fall, Spring). | ||
| STAT-145 | Introduction to Statistics I (General Education) |
3 |
This course introduces statistical methods of extracting meaning from data, and basic inferential statistics. Topics covered include data and data integrity, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, numeric summary measures, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. The emphasis of the course is on statistical thinking rather than computation. Statistical software is used. (Prerequisites: Any 100 level MATH course, or NMTH-260 or NMTH-272 or NMTH-275 or (NMTH-250 with a C- or better) or a Math Placement Exam score of at least 35.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| STAT-146 | Introduction to Statistics II (General Education) |
4 |
This course is an elementary introduction to the topics of regression and analysis of variance. The statistical software package Minitab will be used to reinforce these techniques. The focus of this course is on business applications. This is a general introductory statistics course and is intended for a broad range of programs. (Prerequisites: STAT-145 or equivalent course.) Lecture 6 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
General Education – Global Perspective |
3 | |
General Education – Social Perspective |
3 | |
| Third Year | ||
| MKTG-230 | Principles of Marketing |
3 |
An introduction to the field of marketing, stressing its role in the organization and society. Emphasis is on determining customer needs and wants and how the marketer can satisfy those needs through the controllable marketing variables of product, price, promotion and distribution. (This class is restricted to undergraduate students with at least 2nd year standing.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| PACK-420 | Technical Communications (WI-PR) |
3 |
An introduction to the principles of effective written technical communication for professional environments. Topics include memos, business letters, summary activity reports, technical proposals, and research papers. (Pre-requisites: This course is restricted to PACK-BS or NMEP-BS students.
Co-requisites: First Year Writing (FYW).) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-421 | Packaging for Distribution |
3 |
An exploration of different shipping, storage, and use environments common to various products and packages. Structural design of shipping containers for product physical protection and methods for testing and predicting package performance are studied. Package converting processes will be studied to reinforce the economics of efficient and sustainable package design. (Prerequisites: PACK-311 and PACK-312 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-430 | Packaging Regulations |
3 |
This course begins with an overview of government laws and regulations applicable to the packaging industry. Students will then gain the hierarchical impact that regulations have on the global supply chain, quality systems, patent innovation, and workplace safety. (Prerequisites: (PACK-301 and PACK-302 ) or (PACK-311 and PACK-312) or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-470 | Food Packaging |
3 |
Study of food products, common methods of processing and preservation, impact on quality and nutritional value of the product, and the relationships with common packaging methods and distribution practices. Students required to deliver a project to support the objectives of this course. (Prerequisites: PACK-311 and PACK-312 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall). | ||
| PACK-499 | Cooperative Work Experience (summer) |
0 |
Off-campus work in an approved salaried position with cooperating company. Department permission is required. (Third year status) (A minimum of 3rd year standing is required to enroll.) CO OP (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PHYS-111 | College Physics I |
4 |
This is an introductory course in algebra-based physics focusing on mechanics and waves. Topics include kinematics, planar motion, Newton’s laws, gravitation; rotational kinematics and dynamics; work and energy; momentum and impulse; conservation laws; simple harmonic motion; waves; data presentation/analysis and error propagation. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings. Attendance at the scheduled evening sessions of this class is required for exams. There will be 2 or 3 of these evening exams during the semester. Competency in algebra, geometry and trigonometry is required. Lab 4, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| PACK-471 | Packaging Supply Chain |
|
Market structures are analyzed in order to develop an understanding of how packaging relates to the general economy. Students will learn how market traded derivatives are utilized to protect against price volatility of packaging raw materials, utilization of Purchase Price Cost Analysis to predict packaging pricing and price movements. Packaging contract analysis and packaging pricing formula based pricing will be studied. Students are instructed in the use of basic pricing reference materials for research purposes. Lecture 3 (Spring). | ||
| DECS-310 | Operations Management |
|
A survey of operations and supply chain management that relates to both service- and goods- producing organizations. Topics include operations and supply chain strategies; ethical behavior; forecasting; product and service design, including innovation and sustainability; capacity and inventory management; lean operations; managing projects; quality assurance; global supply chains; and the impacts of technology. (Prerequisites: STAT-145 or MATH-251 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
General Education – Environmental Elective† |
3 | |
General Education – Immersion 1 |
3 | |
General Education – Elective |
3 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| PACK-481 | Packaging for Marketing and End Use |
3 |
The interrelationship between packaging and marketing, detailing how the retail consumer package can be used as a marketing tool. Concentrates on a systematic approach to developing an optimum package for a given product to meet the demands of the retail market and end user. Students gain practice in the development of a complete package system. (Prerequisites: PACK-421 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-783 | Advanced Packaging Dynamics |
3 |
The study of instrumentation systems for analysis, evaluation and application of shock and vibration test methods to develop protective package designs and effective product/package interaction. A research paper is required. (This course is restricted to students in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Spring). | ||
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| MAAT-368 | Gravure and Flexography |
|
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. Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Spring). | ||
| MAAT-541 | Digital Print Processes |
|
Students who take this course will understand how digital printing technologies work, what they are capable of doing, and how these technologies are used commercially. Students will analyze the factors driving the explosive growth of digital printing, including how the economics of digital and conventional printing compare. The concepts taught in the classroom are reinforced through hands-on labs and field trips to digital printers and equipment suppliers. This course is cross-listed with PPRT-641; students may receive credit for MAAT-541 or PPRT-641, not both. (Not if PPRT-641) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Fall). | ||
| MAAT-558 | Package Printing |
|
Students who take this course will understand how package-printing technologies work, and how they are used to print bags, labels, cartons, cans, boxes, and bottles. Students will apply a packaging printing workflow to produce labels and folding cartons of their own design. Finally, cost analyses of package printing using various technologies is discussed. This course is cross-listed with PPRT-688; students may receive credit for MAAT-558 or PPRT-688, not both. (Degree-seeking undergraduate students. Students may not take and receive credit for MAAT-558 and PPRT-688. If you have earned credit for MAAT-558 or you are currently enrolled in PPRT-688 you will not be permitted to enroll in MAAT-558.) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Spring). | ||
Undergraduate Packaging Elective |
3 | |
Graduate Packaging Elective |
3 | |
General Education – Immersion 2, 3 |
6 | |
Open Electives |
9 | |
| Fifth Year | ||
| GRCS-701 | Research Methods |
3 |
Understanding research and academic writing are foundational skills for all graduate students regardless of degree culmination. This is a graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis, with the goal of all students becoming better consumers of research, and preparing those who choose an empirical research degree culmination and future doctoral pursuits. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. Research strategies using library sources, including academic databases and citation management, are emphasized; as are academic writing skills, including adherence to academic style. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-730 | Packaging and the Environment |
3 |
Consideration of packaging in a social context. Factors that enhance secondary use, recycling, recovery of resources, and proper disposal are discussed. Package design in relation to solid waste disposal and materials and energy shortages are considered. Other topics of interest are discussed. Primarily a discussion class for graduate students. Open to graduate non-majors. Lecture 3 (Spring). | ||
| PACK-742 | Distribution Systems |
3 |
The course develops knowledges and application skills of the distribution packaging. Topics covered are packaging used in distribution systems, integrated packaging supply chain, modeling and analysis of the distribution systems, and score card in packaging supply chain. Emphasises are given to estimate and predict the packaging protection and to optimize the packaging distribution using various tools. The lab focuses on development and evaluation of a distribution packaging. The projects are designed to assess the packaging performance in distribution systems. (This course is restricted to students in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring). | ||
| PACK-763 | Packaging for End Use |
3 |
An intensive study of package design requirements specific to use of a product at specified end points. Individual design and development of a package system and its specifications, appropriate to the needs of the product and the consumer/end user and meets the demands of the supply chain. (Prerequisites: PACK-451 or equivalent course or graduate student standing in the PACK-MS program.) Lecture 3 (Spring). | ||
Graduate Packaging Electives |
6 | |
| Choose one of the following: | 6 |
|
| PACK-790 | Research Thesis |
|
A thesis is based on experimental evidence obtained by the candidate in an appropriate topic demonstrating the extension of theory into practice. A written proposal which is defended and authorized by the faculty advisor/committee followed by a formal written thesis and oral presentation of findings are required. Typically the candidate will have completed research methods, data analysis and graduate writing strategies prior to enrolling in this course and will start the thesis process as soon as they have completed these courses to allow them to finish the thesis when they have finished their coursework. The candidate must obtain the approval of their graduate adviser who will guide the thesis before registering for this course. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Thesis (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| PACK-797 | Graduate Project and one (1) Graduate Packaging Elective |
|
The purpose of this course is to provide students the opportunity to conduct research, develop a plan and evaluation components and submit the project as a demonstration of final proficiency in the program. The topic selected by the student will be guided by the faculty teaching the class and it will require the student to coalesce and incorporate into the final project a culmination of all their course work in the program to date. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Project (Spring). | ||
| PACK-795 | Comprehensive Exam and two (2) Graduate Packaging Electives |
|
A written comprehensive exam is one of the non-thesis methodologies for completion of the MS degree. Students will demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of the theories and foundation principles. This course will include a review of the main concepts of each of the core subjects and at the conclusion of the course the student will take a written examination and must receive a passing grade of at least 80 percent to be successful. Students will have one additional opportunity to pass this examination if their initial attempt results in a failing grade. (Faculty adviser approval required). (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Comp Exam 3 (Fall, Summer). | ||
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 145 |
|
Please see General Education Curriculum (GE) for more information.
*Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.
† Students may choose one of the following environmental elective courses: Concepts of Environmental Science (ENVS-101), Environment and Society (STSO-220), or Environmental Policy (STSO-421), Sustainable Food Systems (ESHS-370).
Packaging Science, BS degree, Material Science and Engineering, MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| CHMG-141 | General & Analytical Chemistry I (General Education) |
3 |
This is a general chemistry course for students in the life and physical sciences. College chemistry is presented as a science based on empirical evidence that is placed into the context of conceptual, visual, and mathematical models. Students will learn the concepts, symbolism, and fundamental tools of chemistry necessary to carry on a discourse in the language of chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the transformation of these bonds through chemical reactions. The fundamentals of organic chemistry are introduced throughout the course to emphasize the connection between chemistry and the other sciences. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| CHMG-145 | General & Analytical Chemistry I Lab (General Education) |
1 |
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-141 lecture material. The course emphasizes laboratory techniques and data analysis skills. Topics include: gravimetric, volumetric, thermal, titration and spectrophotometric analyses, and the use of these techniques to analyze chemical reactions. (Corequisite: CHMG-141 or CHMG-131 or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| MATH-171 | Calculus A (General Education – Mathematical Perspective A) |
3 |
This is the first course in a three-course sequence (COS-MATH-171, -172, -173). This course includes a study of precalculus, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions, continuity, and differentiability. Limits of functions are used to study continuity and differentiability. The study of the derivative includes the definition, basic rules, and implicit differentiation. Applications of the derivative include optimization and related-rates problems. (Prerequisites: Completion of the math placement exam or C- or better in MATH-111 or C- or better in ((NMTH-260 or NMTH-272 or NMTH-275) and NMTH-220) or equivalent course.) Lecture 5 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| MATH-172 | Calculus B (General Education – Mathematical Perspective B) |
3 |
This is the second course in three-course sequence (COS-MATH-171, -172, -173). The course includes Riemann sums, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, techniques of integration, and applications of the definite integral. The techniques of integration include substitution and integration by parts. The applications of the definite integral include areas between curves, and the calculation of volume. (Prerequisites: C- or better in MATH-171 or 1016-171T or 1016-281 or 1016-231 or equivalent course.) Lecture 5 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| MEDG-106 | Microbiology of Health and Disease (General Education – Scientific Principles Perspective) |
3 |
An introductory course in microbiology including its history, significant contributions to medicine and history, as well as a survey of microbiological organisms as they relate to disease, industry and biotechnology. (any course in Biology) Lecture 3 (Spring). | ||
| PACK-101 | Introduction to Packaging |
1 |
An in-depth overview 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. Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-151 | Packaging Design I |
3 |
The course develops knowledge of engineering design graphics and skills of package structure design. Topics covered are basics of engineering design graphics, technical sketch, project plan, design matrix and computer aided design (CAD). Emphasis is given to use SolidWorks - CAD software to design typical packaging structures. The 10-week design project focuses on developing a packaging structure from an idea to a 3D virtual prototype. Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). | ||
| PACK-152 | Packaging Design II |
3 |
The course develops knowledge and skills in applying two computer software packages for packaging design: Artios CAD and Adobe Illustrator. Topics covered are builder and rebuilder, solid modeling and drawing, animation, coloring, and painting. Emphasis is given to create a typical paperboard based carton with a proper structure and color usage. (Co-requisites: PACK-101 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring). | ||
| UWRT-150 | FYW (WI) (General Education – First Year Writing) |
3 |
Writing Seminar is a three-credit course limited to 19 students per section. The course is designed to develop first-year students’ proficiency in analytical and rhetorical reading and writing, and critical thinking. Students will read, understand, and interpret a variety of non-fiction texts representing different cultural perspectives and/or academic disciplines. These texts are designed to challenge students intellectually and to stimulate their writing for a variety of contexts and purposes. Through inquiry-based assignment sequences, students will develop academic research and literacy practices that will be further strengthened throughout their academic careers. Particular attention will be given to the writing process, including an emphasis on teacher-student conferencing, critical self-assessment, class discussion, peer review, formal and informal writing, research, and revision. Small class size promotes frequent student-instructor and student-student interaction. The course also emphasizes the principles of intellectual property and academic integrity for both current academic and future professional writing. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| YOPS-10 | RIT 365: RIT Connections |
0 |
RIT 365 students participate in experiential learning opportunities designed to launch them into their career at RIT, support them in making multiple and varied connections across the university, and immerse them in processes of competency development. Students will plan for and reflect on their first-year experiences, receive feedback, and develop a personal plan for future action in order to develop foundational self-awareness and recognize broad-based professional competencies. (This class is restricted to incoming 1st year or global campus students.) Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
General Education – Artistic Perspective |
3 | |
General Education – Ethical Perspective |
3 | |
| Second Year | ||
| CHMG-201 | Introduction to Organic Polymer Technology (General Education) |
3 |
The first part of the course covers the fundamentals of organic chemistry. The organization, nomenclature, structure, bonding and basic reactions of organic compounds will be discussed, in particular those concepts that are relevant to understand polymer chemistry. The second part of the course will introduce the nomenclature and classification of synthetic polymers. The reactions leading to the formation of relevant polymers, their chemical and physical behavior, and some of their many applications will be discussed. (Prerequisites: CHMG-121 or CHMG-131 or CHMG-141 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall). | ||
| CHMG-123 | Chemistry of Materials (General Education) |
3 |
The course will address three fundamental concepts of general chemistry by covering three aspects of all chemical reactions: kinetics, equilibrium and thermodynamics. Acid/base and oxidation/reductions will be discussed. The chemistry of metals, ceramics and synthetic polymers will be covered, including electrochemistry and a brief overview of organic chemistry. (Prerequisites: CHMG-121 or CHMG-131 or CHMG-141 or equivalent courses.) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-95 | Career Seminar |
0 |
This course is an introduction to the cooperative educational placement process at RIT, the programs in the department and RIT resources. Topics include engineering technology vs. engineering, review of resources available at RIT, the co-operative education placement process, and the ethical expectations of employers for co-op students and RIT during a job search. Seminar 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-211 | Packaging Metals & Plastics |
3 |
The study of packaging materials from extraction through conversion and production, physical and chemical properties and uses. Emphasis is on plastics and metals used in packaging and other component materials. Recognized standard testing procedures are presented and students gain practical experience in the operation of various testing instruments, interpretation of results, and evaluation of properties and performance characteristics. (Co-requisites: PACK-101 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-212 | Packaging Paper & Glass |
3 |
The manufacture, physical and chemical properties, and uses of common packaging materials. Emphasis is on paper, paperboard, wood, glass, and pressurized packaging systems used in packaging applications. Standard testing procedures will be presented as well as instruction on testing equipment operation, data interpretation, evaluation of properties, and performance. (Co-requisites: PACK-101 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-311 | Containers I |
3 |
A detailed study of primary packages that includes the history, manufacturing processes, characteristics, and applications for containers in direct contact with the product. Structural design, chemical compatibility, and suitability of container for intended use are analyzed for basic container types. Students practice structural design and testing of prototype containers. Primary emphasis is on flexible paper, foil, plastic, and laminated materials and on selected processing techniques. Topics to include folding cartons, heat seal technology and test methodologies, permeability theory, modeling, and empirical testing. (Prerequisites: PACK-151 and PACK-211 and PACK-212 or equivalent courses.
Co-requisites: PACK-152 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-312 | Containers II |
3 |
This course is a detailed study of primary packages. History, manufacturing processes characteristics, and applications for containers in direct contact with the product. Structural design, chemical compatibility, and suitability of container for intended use are analyzed for basic container types. Students practice structural design and testing of prototype containers. Primary emphasis is on rigid paperboard, glass, plastic, and metal containers. (Prerequisites: PACK-151 and PACK-211 and PACK-212 or equivalent courses.
Co-requisites: PACK-152 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-499 | Co-op Work Experience (summer) |
0 |
Off-campus work in an approved salaried position with cooperating company. Department permission is required. (Third year status) (A minimum of 3rd year standing is required to enroll.) CO OP (Fall, Spring). | ||
| STAT-145 | Introduction to Statistics I (General Education) |
3 |
This course introduces statistical methods of extracting meaning from data, and basic inferential statistics. Topics covered include data and data integrity, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, numeric summary measures, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. The emphasis of the course is on statistical thinking rather than computation. Statistical software is used. (Prerequisites: Any 100 level MATH course, or NMTH-260 or NMTH-272 or NMTH-275 or (NMTH-250 with a C- or better) or a Math Placement Exam score of at least 35.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| STAT-146 | Introduction to Statistics II (General Education) |
4 |
This course is an elementary introduction to the topics of regression and analysis of variance. The statistical software package Minitab will be used to reinforce these techniques. The focus of this course is on business applications. This is a general introductory statistics course and is intended for a broad range of programs. (Prerequisites: STAT-145 or equivalent course.) Lecture 6 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
General Education – Global Perspective |
3 | |
General Education – Social Perspective |
3 | |
| Third Year | ||
| MKTG-230 | Principles of Marketing |
3 |
An introduction to the field of marketing, stressing its role in the organization and society. Emphasis is on determining customer needs and wants and how the marketer can satisfy those needs through the controllable marketing variables of product, price, promotion and distribution. (This class is restricted to undergraduate students with at least 2nd year standing.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| PACK-420 | Technical Communications (WI-PR) |
3 |
An introduction to the principles of effective written technical communication for professional environments. Topics include memos, business letters, summary activity reports, technical proposals, and research papers. (Pre-requisites: This course is restricted to PACK-BS or NMEP-BS students.
Co-requisites: First Year Writing (FYW).) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-421 | Packaging for Distribution |
3 |
An exploration of different shipping, storage, and use environments common to various products and packages. Structural design of shipping containers for product physical protection and methods for testing and predicting package performance are studied. Package converting processes will be studied to reinforce the economics of efficient and sustainable package design. (Prerequisites: PACK-311 and PACK-312 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-430 | Packaging Regulations |
3 |
This course begins with an overview of government laws and regulations applicable to the packaging industry. Students will then gain the hierarchical impact that regulations have on the global supply chain, quality systems, patent innovation, and workplace safety. (Prerequisites: (PACK-301 and PACK-302 ) or (PACK-311 and PACK-312) or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-470 | Food Packaging |
3 |
Study of food products, common methods of processing and preservation, impact on quality and nutritional value of the product, and the relationships with common packaging methods and distribution practices. Students required to deliver a project to support the objectives of this course. (Prerequisites: PACK-311 and PACK-312 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall). | ||
| PACK-499 | Co-op Work Experience (Summer) |
0 |
Off-campus work in an approved salaried position with cooperating company. Department permission is required. (Third year status) (A minimum of 3rd year standing is required to enroll.) CO OP (Fall, Spring). | ||
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| PACK-471 | Packaging Supply Chain |
|
Market structures are analyzed in order to develop an understanding of how packaging relates to the general economy. Students will learn how market traded derivatives are utilized to protect against price volatility of packaging raw materials, utilization of Purchase Price Cost Analysis to predict packaging pricing and price movements. Packaging contract analysis and packaging pricing formula based pricing will be studied. Students are instructed in the use of basic pricing reference materials for research purposes. Lecture 3 (Spring). | ||
| DECS-310 | Operations Management |
|
A survey of operations and supply chain management that relates to both service- and goods- producing organizations. Topics include operations and supply chain strategies; ethical behavior; forecasting; product and service design, including innovation and sustainability; capacity and inventory management; lean operations; managing projects; quality assurance; global supply chains; and the impacts of technology. (Prerequisites: STAT-145 or MATH-251 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| PHYS-111 | College Physics I (General Education – Natural Science Inquiry Perspective) |
4 |
This is an introductory course in algebra-based physics focusing on mechanics and waves. Topics include kinematics, planar motion, Newton’s laws, gravitation; rotational kinematics and dynamics; work and energy; momentum and impulse; conservation laws; simple harmonic motion; waves; data presentation/analysis and error propagation. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings. Attendance at the scheduled evening sessions of this class is required for exams. There will be 2 or 3 of these evening exams during the semester. Competency in algebra, geometry and trigonometry is required. Lab 4, Lecture 2 (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
General Education – Immersion 1 |
3 | |
General Education – Elective |
3 | |
Environmental Elective† |
3 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| PACK-422 | Dynamics and Protective Packaging |
3 |
The course defines the factors involved in assessing the potential damage to packaged items resulting from impact and vibration forces in the handling, transport and storage environments. Students will be instructed in the use of basic shock and vibration test equipment, apply standard test protocols and develop specific testing protocols from measured field data. Based on data generated from testing activities, students will develop cushion designs to protect sensitive product components. (Prerequisites: PACK-421 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| PACK-481 | Packaging for Marketing and End Use |
3 |
The interrelationship between packaging and marketing, detailing how the retail consumer package can be used as a marketing tool. Concentrates on a systematic approach to developing an optimum package for a given product to meet the demands of the retail market and end user. Students gain practice in the development of a complete package system. (Prerequisites: PACK-421 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3, Recitation 1 (Fall, Spring). | ||
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| MAAT-368 | Gravure and Flexography |
|
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. Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Spring). | ||
| MAAT-541 | Digital Print Processes |
|
Students who take this course will understand how digital printing technologies work, what they are capable of doing, and how these technologies are used commercially. Students will analyze the factors driving the explosive growth of digital printing, including how the economics of digital and conventional printing compare. The concepts taught in the classroom are reinforced through hands-on labs and field trips to digital printers and equipment suppliers. This course is cross-listed with PPRT-641; students may receive credit for MAAT-541 or PPRT-641, not both. (Not if PPRT-641) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Fall). | ||
| MAAT-558 | Package Printing |
|
Students who take this course will understand how package-printing technologies work, and how they are used to print bags, labels, cartons, cans, boxes, and bottles. Students will apply a packaging printing workflow to produce labels and folding cartons of their own design. Finally, cost analyses of package printing using various technologies is discussed. This course is cross-listed with PPRT-688; students may receive credit for MAAT-558 or PPRT-688, not both. (Degree-seeking undergraduate students. Students may not take and receive credit for MAAT-558 and PPRT-688. If you have earned credit for MAAT-558 or you are currently enrolled in PPRT-688 you will not be permitted to enroll in MAAT-558.) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Spring). | ||
MTSE Graduate Electives |
6 | |
General Education – Immersion 2, 3 |
6 | |
Open Electives |
9 | |
| Fifth Year | ||
| MTSE-601 | Materials Science |
3 |
This course provides an understanding of the relationship between structure and properties necessary for the development of new materials. Topics include atomic and crystal structure, crystalline defects, diffusion, theories, strengthening mechanisms, ferrous alloys, cast irons, structure of ceramics and polymeric materials and corrosion principles. Term paper on materials topic. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall). | ||
| MTSE-704 | Theoretical Methods in Materials Science and Engineering |
3 |
This course includes the treatment of vector analysis, special functions, waves, and fields; Maxwell Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac distributions, and their applications. Selected topics of interest in electrodynamics, fluid mechanics, and statistical mechanics will also be discussed. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall). | ||
| MTSE-705 | Experimental Techniques |
3 |
The course will introduce the students to laboratory equipment for hardness testing, impact testing, tensile testing, X-ray diffraction, SEM, and thermal treatment of metallic materials. Experiments illustrating the characterization of high molecular weight organic polymers will be performed. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lab 3 (Spring). | ||
Graduate MTSE Electives |
6 | |
| Choose one of the following: | 9 |
|
| MTSE-790 | Research Thesis |
|
Dissertation research by the candidate for an appropriate topic as arranged between the candidate and the research advisor. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Thesis (Fall, Spring, Summer). | ||
| MTSE-777 | Project and two (2) Graduate MTSE Electives |
|
This course is a capstone project using research facilities available inside or outside of RIT. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Project . | ||
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 145 |
|
Please see General Education Curriculum (GE) for more information.
Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.
† Students may choose one of the following environmental elective courses: Concepts of Environmental Science (ENVS-101), Environment and Society (STSO-220), or Environmental Policy (STSO-421), Sustainable Food Systems (ESHS-370)
Admissions and Financial Aid
This program is STEM designated when studying on campus and full time.
First-Year Admission
First-year applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong academic background that includes:
- 4 years of English
- 3 years of social studies and/or history
- 3 years of math is required and must include algebra, geometry, and algebra 2/trigonometry. Pre-calculus is preferred.
- 2-3 years of science. Chemistry or physics is required and biology is recommended.
- Technology electives are preferred.
Transfer Admission
Transfer applicants should meet these minimum degree-specific requirements:
- A minimum of college algebra is required. Pre-calculus or calculus is preferred.
- Chemistry or physics is required.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
100% of all incoming first-year and transfer students receive aid.
RIT’s personalized and comprehensive financial aid program includes scholarships, grants, loans, and campus employment programs. When all these are put to work, your actual cost may be much lower than the published estimated cost of attendance.
Learn more about financial aid and scholarships
Resources
Access Resources for students including academic advisors, student clubs and organizations, documents, technical information and support, and software help.
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Department of Packaging and Graphic Media Science
Department of Packaging and Graphic Media Science