Students at Research & Innovation
Shape Your Career & The World
The need for polymer research and development to fuel a circular economy continues to rise. That means careers in this field are in high demand. NIMA, in partnership with Pittsburg State University, offers opportunities for a top-tier education alongside real-world experience.
There are several fields of study related to the commercial use of renewable polymers and plastics. Here are three distinct and rewarding degree programs available at PSU. Check out each one to see job possibilities and potential starting salaries.
Tyler Scholarship
The Tyler Research Center plays a key role in supporting students involved in the Research and Innovation department at Pittsburg State University by combining financial support, hands-on research experience, and career-focused development.
What it can do for students
- Remove financial barriers so students can focus on research: Through the Tyler Scholarship, students receive full financial support covering tuition and fees, allowing them to dedicate more time to academics, lab work, and innovation rather than financial stress.
- Provide access to research-driven education: The program is specifically designed for students in polymer chemistry, plastics engineering technology, and materials science, aligning directly with PSU’s research strengths. It supports a research-based learning environment, meaning students are not just learning concepts—they’re actively applying them
- Offer hands-on lab and innovation experience: The Tyler Research Center itself is a fully equipped research facility with advanced labs and space for product development, giving students opportunities to work on real-world scientific and industrial challenges.
Our Degree Programs
Material Science
The Master of Materials Science at Pittsburg State University prepares students for careers in industry and also for postgraduate degrees in materials science, engineering, and related fields. This program is collaboratively designed to be an interdisciplinary degree between the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Technology. Such an interdisciplinary program will provide hands-on, academic activities and practical experiences for students, readying them to join the workforce.
Professional Information
Average Salary
- The estimated starting salary range is approximately $102,000
Employment Possibilities
- PhD program candidates for materials science, chemistry, physics, chemical engineering, and related fields
- R&D with natural, synthetic, or composite materials, metals, alloys, rubber, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, and glasses
- Materials science-related industry jobs in defense, electronic materials, energy, polymers, biomedical, semiconductors, and related fields
- Many more
Plastics Engineering Technology
Plastics Engineering Technology emphasizes detailed technical knowledge as well as real-world application. Plastics is a rapidly expanding field, both as a science and an industry, and the curriculum at Pittsburg State University keeps pace with changes and anticipated industrial needs. The Plastics Engineering Technology program has a four-year curriculum which culminates in a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering Technology as well as a two-year associate’s degree, and a graduate Master’s degree.
Professional Information
Average Salary
- The estimated average starting salary range is $60,000–$65,000
Employment Job Titles
- Production Manager
- Project Engineer
- Assistant Mechanical Specialist
- Process Technician
- Area Coordinator
- Research and Development Engineer
- Fabrication Technician
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Plastics Engineer
- Engineering Technician
- New Product Development Project Manager
- Manufacturing Technician
- Tool Design Engineer
- Sales Representative
- Design Engineer
Polymer Chemistry
Pittsburg State University’s Department of Chemistry, together with its Plastics Engineering Technology program, offers undergraduate students one of the nation’s most unique and high-quality polymer chemistry programs. This program enables students the opportunity to enter the workforce as working polymer chemists in as little as four years.
Professional Information
Average Salary
- The estimated average starting salary range is $60,000–$75,000
Employment Job Titles
- Synthetic Polymer Chemist
- Materials Engineer
- Materials Scientist
- Polymer Technician
- Many more
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