The science of long-chain molecules is the focus of the polymer science minor. The goal of the polymer science minor is to produce graduates who have a first-hand knowledge of the relationships between the synthesis, structure, properties and processing of polymer materials. Polymers have certain unique chemical and physical properties, and understanding these properties involves aspects of organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, contemporary physics (particularly theories of the solid state and solution), chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
There is a growing demand for what can be called engineering technologists, those skilled in the art of designing processes for producing specific products.