Chemical and Paper Engineering

Paper Engineering (B.S. in Engineering)

Whether sustainability, chemistry or manufacturing drives your career path, the paper engineering program has it all. Paper engineering is essentially applying chemical engineering to the paper industry, a growing, specialized field that is a key component in many businesses. We are home to one of only four paper engineering programs in the United States. With the resources of WMU and the Department of Chemical and Paper Engineering, you will be set up for success.

pride points

98%

of College of Engineering and Applied Sciences undergraduates participated in Experience-Driven Learning

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report
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$80K - $90K

median starting salary for recent chemical and paper engineering graduates working full time

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report
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99%

of College of Engineering and Applied Sciences graduates working full time are satisfied with their job

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report
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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.

Earn two bachelor’s degrees. Earn your bachelor's degree in both chemical engineering and paper engineering with 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.

Western is a place where you're not just a number, and it's a place where you're actually going to find your community and where you can be involved.
— Elisha Ewing, B.S.E.'25

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 in process engineering or environmental engineering and sustainable processes. In addition to your coursework, you'll find endless opportunities to achieve your goals.

  • Adding 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!
  • Option to complete a certificates in graphics and printing science.

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
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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.

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Making the most of your learning experience

At WMU, you’ll gain hands-on experience and work with expert faculty. Internships and co-ops will boost the knowledge you build in your coursework. Beyond the classroom, you’ll compete in engineering challenges and connect with industry professionals by joining student organizations such as  Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI). Your Senior Engineering Design project will team you up with peers to apply your knowledge to a real industry project.

These experiences will help you stand out as you prepare for a successful career in aerospace engineering.

Learn about Experience-Driven Learning
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A group of students in the WMU Paper Pilot Plant

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.

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Frequently asked questions

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in paper engineering from WMU pursue careers in fields such as environmental engineering, paper and pulp manufacturing, and design. Graduates have job titles such as process engineer, environmental engineer and associate district representative.

Yes, in the paper engineering program you will learn through hands-on opportunities.

  • Professors incorporate hands-on learning into your coursework, including projects in academic labs.
  • The Paper Technology Foundation (PTF) offers students opportunities to attend sponsored field trips, alumni events, and industry conferences to gain exposure to the industry and network with industry professionals and other paper engineering students in the U.S.
  • WMU’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences has more than 25 student organizations. These organizations allow you to compete and network with peers at other institutions while extending your learning.
  • Many students also complete internships or co-ops during their time in the program.
  • All students complete a Senior Engineering Design capstone project, where you work as a team to address real-world projects.

Yes, there are a number of scholarships available for students enrolled in the paper engineering program at Western. Students majoring in paper engineering are also eligible for scholarships sponsored by WMU’s Paper Technology Foundation. Additionally, you may be eligible for additional scholarships from WMU. We encourage you to apply for all scholarships that match your interests, career goals and financial or academic needs.

View scholarship information.

As an engineering and applied sciences student, you should enjoy solving problems using math and science and possess a strong desire to make a difference in the world. Once you successfully complete pre-engineering requirements, you’ll apply to the upper-level professional program where you’ll dive deeper into your specific major.

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View admissions information for transfer students

Yes, we welcome students who are interested in transferring to WMU from a community college or other college or university. View transfer information and set-up an appointment to meet with an advisor.

We offer an accelerated degree program that allows you to complete a master’s degree in paper and printing science in just one additional year. Weave graduate courses (up to 12 credits) into your WMU undergraduate degree in paper engineering, and earn both your bachelor's and master's degrees. Learn more about accelerated master’s degrees at WMU and view the requirements for the accelerated master’s degree in paper and printing science.

Yes! Many students in the paper engineering program participate in internships or co-ops during their time at WMU. They are great ways to gain experience. Internships are paid positions in your field. Co-ops are also paid positions and also offer an opportunity to earn credits toward your degree. 

As a WMU College of Engineering and Applied Sciences student, you'll also have access to many career development opportunities to be ready to land an internship or co-op.

Your professors and academic advisor can provide more information.

Western gives you options for receiving academic support in paper engineering. Check with your professors or instructors during office hours to ask questions about your courses or find tutoring via the Bronco Study Zone.

Chemical engineering and paper engineering are closely linked. In fact, in either major, you can add five courses and earn degrees in both disciplines. Both have some of the highest starting salaries in engineering.

Chemical engineering is a broad program that can lead to careers in many industries. Paper engineering is a specialized area that typically leads to careers in pulp, paper, packaging and fiber products.

As a pre-engineering student, you'll spend time exploring many areas of study. Your academic advisor and professors will help your find your ideal path.