COURSE CURRICULUM

The Packaging Science BS curriculum at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) for 2025–2026 is a 121-credit, four-year program that combines chemistry, engineering, design, marketing, and sustainability to prepare students for careers in packaging development, manufacturing, and supply chain industries. In the first year, students build foundational knowledge through courses in general and analytical chemistry, calculus, introductory packaging concepts, and packaging design. They also complete writing requirements and general education courses in arts and ethics, helping develop communication and creative thinking skills alongside technical learning.In the second year, the program shifts toward more specialized packaging and materials science topics. Students study organic polymer technology, packaging materials such as metals, plastics, paper, and glass, along with statistics and microbiology related to health and disease. They also take container design courses and a career seminar to prepare for professional development. A cooperative education experience in the summer gives students their first real-world industry exposure.The third year emphasizes applied packaging science and industry-focused learning. Students take courses in marketing, packaging for distribution, food packaging, regulations, and supply chain systems, along with a physics course. They also select environmental electives such as environmental science, sustainable food systems, or environmental policy, allowing them to understand sustainability issues in packaging. A second co-op experience during the summer provides further professional training.In the fourth year, students focus on advanced packaging engineering and business applications. Courses include protective packaging dynamics, packaging for marketing and end use, and electives in packaging design, printing technologies, and business practices. Students also complete general education immersion requirements and additional electives to tailor their academic experience.Overall, the program integrates science, engineering, design, sustainability, and business to prepare students for careers in packaging engineering, product development, quality assurance, logistics, and sustainability roles across industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and manufacturing.