Course Overview: 

31 Modules

This introductory course surveys the fundamentals of polymer chemistry and materials, connecting molecular structure and synthesis to properties, processing, applications, sustainability, and careers in the polymer industry. Learners explore major polymer families (commodity plastics, engineering polymers, elastomers, fibers, and natural polymers), common additives and processing methods, and how polymers are tested and selected for demanding applications—from medical devices to aerospace. 

Course Objectives: 

  • Define core polymer terminology (monomer, polymerization, molecular weight, Tg/Tm, crystallinity, crosslinking) and connect structure to properties 
  • Compare major polymer classes (synthetic, natural, semi-synthetic) and explain how chemistry and morphology influence applications 
  • Identify common polymers (PE, PP, PS, PET, PVC, nylons, rubbers, PC, PU, PTFE, PMMA, silicones) and summarize typical processing routes and end uses 
  • Explain how additives, compounding, and processing methods (extrusion, injection molding, 3D printing, curing) tailor performance 
  • Describe sustainability considerations including recycling routes, contamination challenges, and emerging circular-economy approaches 
  • Explore polymer-industry careers, work settings, and core technical/human skills; identify pathways and credentials for advancement 

Module Breakdown: 

Pre-Course – Welcome to Polymer Chemistry – Principles and Practice: Orient to course expectations, key vocabulary, and how polymer structure connects to properties and real-world products. 

Module 1 – Introduction to Polymers: Overview of polymers commonly encountered in daily life including plastics and rubber and an introduction to monomers and polymerization. 

Module 2 – Polymer Types: Compare major polymer classes (synthetic, natural, and semi-synthetic) and how structure determines polymer applications. 

Module 3 – Polyethylene: Petroleum processing for polymer feedstocks; PE synthesis and structure, common grades, processing methods, everyday applications, and employment opportunities. 

Module 4 – Polypropylene: Examine PP structure and compare to PE; typical uses in packaging and durable goods in the context of employment opportunities. 

Module 5 – Polystyrene: PS synthesis and properties, EPS, and key property comparisons to PE and PP, with emphasis on employment opportunities. 

Module 6 – Polyethylene Terephthalate: PET synthesis and properties; two-monomer polymerization; common applications and scale of use. 

Module 7 – Jobs in the Polymer Industry Part 1: Common jobs, work settings, and core skills (technical and human) across polymer manufacturing and R&D. 

Module 8 – Nylon: How nylon (a polyamide) is made; why it is tough; common applications; job opportunities in the nylon industry. 

Module 9 – Polyvinylchloride (PVC): PVC formulation; introduction to plasticizers/stabilizers; applications from pipe to medical tubing. 

Module 10 – Synthetic Rubber – Neoprene: Neoprene structure and synthesis; link structure to chemical resistance, weathering performance, and specialty applications in water sports and construction. 

Module 11 – Natural Rubber: Latex origin, vulcanization, and the unique elasticity of polyisoprene in early tire manufacturing and modern applications, with emphasis on employment opportunities. 

Module 12 – Kevlar: Aramid fiber chemistry; how rigid-rod structures yield high strength and heat resistance; applications in tires, protection, and other high-performance needs. 

Module 13 – Crude Oil Refinement: Trace how petrochemical feedstocks are produced and routed to monomers used in polymers. 

Module 14 – Careers in the Polymer Industry Part 2: Career exploration focusing on pathways, credentials, and advancement opportunities. 

Module 15 – Teflon: PTFE chemistry and why low friction and chemical inertness enable demanding uses. 

Module 16 – Polycarbonate: PC structure, transparency and toughness; considerations like impact resistance and high temperature performance. 

Module 17 – Polyurethane: How PU chemistry enables foams, elastomers, and coatings through tunable formulations. 

Module 18 – Natural Polymers: Survey biopolymers (cellulose, starch, proteins) and their structures, properties, and uses. 

Module 19 – Silicon Polymers: Silicones and how Si–O backbones create flexibility, stability, and temperature resistance for multiple applications. 

Module 20 – Polymethylmethacrylate: PMMA (acrylic) properties, optical clarity, processing, and applications with emphasis on employment options. 

Module 21 – Laboratory Analysis for Polymers: Common characterization tools (thermal, mechanical, and spectroscopic methods) used to identify polymers and measure properties. 

Module 22 – How Tires are Manufactured: Tire materials, compounding, building, curing, and performance testing. 

Module 23 – Polymer Additives: Stabilizers, fillers, pigments, and modifiers; how additives tailor processing and end-use performance. 

Module 24 – Polymers in Aviation and Aerospace: Custom polymer and composite uses where weight, temperature, and safety requirements are critical. 

Module 25 – Polymer Molding: Compare six molding processes (including extrusion and injection) and how design and processing conditions affect part quality, shape, and performance. 

Module 26 – Medical Polymers: Biocompatibility, sterilization, regulatory considerations, and polymer choices in medical devices. 

Module 27 – Polymer Recycling: Mechanical and chemical recycling options and how materials and contamination impact outcomes. 

Module 28 – Polymers in 3D Printing: Additive manufacturing with polymers, including common materials and property limitations. 

Module 29 – Career in Polymers Part 3: Interviewing, portfolio/resume tips, and career planning in polymers. 

Module 30 – Review and Intro to AI in Polymer Science: Synthesize course concepts and preview how data and AI support polymer discovery, design, and process optimization. 

Additional Experiential Learning and Activities: 

To further enhance learning, the course may include opportunities for real-world exposure and professional insight into polymer science and manufacturing: 

  • Guest Speakers: Polymer engineers, lab technicians, quality specialists, and manufacturing leaders discuss products, processes, and career pathways. 
  • Lab/Plant Demonstrations: Demonstrations of polymer processing (molding/extrusion concepts) and characterization (thermal/mechanical/spectroscopic examples). 
  • Work-Based Learning (Optional): Job shadowing at a polymer manufacturer, compounding facility, laboratory, or recycling operation, plus a short reflection log. 

These activities aim to connect polymer chemistry concepts to real products and processes while building awareness of job roles and workplace expectations in the polymer industry. 

Program Cost 

The Introduction to Polymers course is offered at a fee of $3,000 per student. This all-inclusive cost covers the following: 

  • Tuition and Instructional Support: Instructor-led training, lab activities, and facilitated practice scenarios. 
  • Curriculum and Tooling Access: Course materials and any required app/tool access used during training. 
  • Experiential Learning Activities: Guest speaker honorariums and coordination for optional work-based learning are covered under the per participant fee. 

The per-student fee ensures a comprehensive educational experience that blends polymer fundamentals, application-driven case studies, exposure to industry-relevant testing and processing concepts, and guided career exploration across the polymer value chain.