Department of Chemical and Paper Engineering
New developments in the ways trees are grown, and processed, and emerging projects like biofuels and biopolymers are creating opportunities in virtually every area of engineering and science. The paper industry is a key component in many businesses and touches many aspects of our lives. Career options include process engineering, technical services, pollution prevention, research and development, marketing and sales, manufacturing and much more.
Western Michigan University provides leading-edge opportunities in the applications of nanotechnology, printing and ink development methods, recycling, paper and pulp mill operation, process control and instrumentation, and pollution prevention and environmental engineering. Paid summer internships and co-op programs give you practical hands-on experience.
Beyond the classroom
As a paper engineering major at WMU, you will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on projects with local industry and qualify for our departmental scholarships. You can also meet and network with professionals and other students in your field by joining one of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences' 25 student organizations, including the Ts’ai Lun Student Chapter of TAPPI. The organization promotes education in the science and engineering of pulp and paper manufacturing and encourages the professional development of students preparing for careers in the pulp and paper industry.
Besides a major and a minor in paper engineering, the department also offers an undergraduate certificate that is suitable for people graduating in other branches of engineering or chemistry.
After you graduate
Recent WMU graduates with degrees in paper engineering are working as:
- Engineers
- Researchers
- Project directors
Among the companies they work for are:
- Domtar
- Expera Specialty Solutions
- Graphic Packaging International
- International Paper
- Kimberly Clark
- Solenis
- WestRock
Where is this program offered?
- Kalamazoo