pride points
98%
of College of Engineering and Applied Sciences undergraduates participated in experience-driven learning
$80K - $90K
median starting salary for recent chemical and paper engineering graduates working full time
99%
of College of Engineering and Applied Sciences graduates working full time are satisfied with their job
Pursue a bachelor's degree in paper engineering
The need for paper engineers has never been higher. As consumers increasingly demand sustainable products and packaging, the pulp and paper industry continues to evolve. New developments in the ways trees are grown, harvested and processed and emerging projects such as bio-fuels and bio-polymers are creating opportunities in virtually every area of engineering and manufacturing.
You will participate in hands-on projects with local industry and engage in research. With professors who are leaders in their fields and academic advisors who guide your progress, your time at WMU culminates in a Senior Engineering Design project where you will be part of a team completing a project for industry.
You can even earn two bachelor’s degrees—chemical engineering and paper engineering—by taking just five extra classes. And if graduate school is in your future, you can save time and money with our accelerated master's program.
By graduation, you'll be ready to make an impact on one of the largest global industries, pulp and paperboard manufacturers.
What you'll learn
As a paper engineering student, you will study process engineering, product development, research, environmental compliance, sales and marketing, operations and general management. You'll focus your studies by choosing an area of emphasis—process engineering or environmental engineering and sustainable processes. In addition to your coursework, you'll find endless opportunities to achieve your goals.
- Adding just 5 courses to your program will earn you a double major in both chemical and paper engineering.
- Paid internships and co-op programs give you practical hands-on experience.
- Merit scholarships to help you with your college expenses.
- Jobs waiting for you upon graduation, with some of the highest salaries in engineering fields!
Core courses
- Chemical Engineering and Computation
- Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics
- Computer Modeling and Simulation
- Bioprocess Engineering
- Plant Economics and Project Design
- Environmental Engineering
Where you'll be after graduation
Graduates of the paper engineering program are working in roles such as process engineer, environmental engineer, design engineer and associate, district representative and more. Some of the companies they work for include Smurfit Westrock, DOMTAR, Solenis, Sonoco and USG.
What others have achieved
Making the most of your learning experience
- Professors and advisors will support your participation in real-world experiences that will set you apart when you launch your professional career.
- You'll make lifelong friends and apply your skills by joining student organizations such as American Institute of Chemical Engineers and Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI).
- Internships and co-ops will all boost the knowledge you build in your coursework.
- Your time at Western culminates in a Senior Engineering Design project, where you will team you up with peers and industry to apply your knowledge to a real world project.
What scholarships are available to paper engineering students?
A number of scholarships are available for students enrolled in paper engineering at Western, including a growing scholarship program from the WMU Paper Technology Foundation. We encourage you to apply for all scholarships that match your interests, career goals and financial or academic needs.
