CH 667: Polymer Organic Chemistry
Credits: 4
Instructors: Tayler Hebner, Casey Check
Term: Summer
Students are introduced to the chemistry used to create polymers – a foundation that will lead to being able to synthesize materials with desired physical properties. Organic chemistry concepts relevant to the design and synthesis of polymers as well as the application of these concepts within a laboratory setting are a key focus.
CH 669: Polymer Synthesis & Characterization Lab
Credits: 4
Instructors: Casey Check
Term: Summer
During the second course, students build a foundation of the structure-properties relationship of polymers. Theoretical physical polymer chemistry concepts are presented through the lens of real-world consequences; this is supported by a laboratory component that provides hands-on experience with commonly encountered thermal and mechanical characterization instruments. The objective is to merge theory with reality to yield a functional understanding of polymer structure-properties behavior.
CH 668: Physical Chemistry of Polymers and Coatings
Credits: 4
Instructors: Skip Rochefort, Casey Check
Term: Summer
Students will explore the flow behavior of polymers in both the solution and melt state through both lecture and hands-on experimentation and characterization. Rheology builds upon the content delivered in the first two courses and provides context for the effect of polymer structure and physical properties on their processability. Understanding flow characteristics provides insight into how final products can be made using polymers.
CH 610: Professional Communication in Science
Credits: 1
Instructors: Stacey York
Term: Summer
Students learn and apply foundational skills critical for career progression of scientists and engineers. Core elements include: composing a competitive resume; sharing impactful answers during behavioral and technical interviews; and building a strong professional network.
CH 670: Industrial Projects Lab
Credits: 4
Instructors: Casey Check
Term: Fall
The final core laboratory course provides an opportunity for students to apply their newly obtained polymer science knowledge to solve real-world, industrially sponsored research projects. The goal of this laboratory course is to provide an open-ended, realistic experience similar to those of a typical internship or industrial job position. Students will work in small teams similar to research groups within a company. The goal of this course is to prepare students with the skills and experience needed to excel in their upcoming internship positions.
Electives: Chemistry-related Graduate Electives
Credits: 8
Instructors: Varies
Term: Fall
Students further specialize or broaden their knowledge through 8 credits of elective coursework. Popular electives amongst students include: Design of Experiments, Advanced NMR, Electron Microscopy, Surface Analysis, and Lens of the Market (an entrepreneurship-based elective).
CH 601: Research Internship
Credits: 10 per term, 30 total
Instructors: Casey Check
Term: Winter, Spring, Summer
Within an academic, clinical, industrial, or national lab setting, students gain hands-on experience in the application of their knowledge. Each term, students write a review paper to demonstrate advancement of technical knowledge and development of written communication skills. Learn more about the internship by visiting our website at internship.uoregon.edu/polymers-internships.