Paper Science and Engineering: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Paper Science and Engineering is a technically rigorous discipline focused on the scientific and engineering principles behind the production, enhancement, and application of paper and pulp-based materials. Students develop expertise in transforming raw fibrous materials into high-performance products through advanced manufacturing techniques and material innovation.
- Pulp and paper science: Explores the fundamental chemical and physical properties of wood and non-wood fibers, as well as their behavior during processing and conversion into paper.
- Pulping and bleaching processes: Focuses on the efficient extraction of cellulose fibers from raw materials using chemical, mechanical, or hybrid methods, followed by purification and whitening techniques.
- Paper structure and processes: Investigates how fiber arrangement, bonding, and formation influence the mechanical, optical, and functional characteristics of finished paper.
- Pulp and paper manufacturing: Covers the full industrial-scale workflow—from raw material preparation to sheet formation, drying, and finishing—emphasizing efficiency, quality control, and sustainability.
- Coating technology: Addresses the application of functional coatings to improve paper surface properties such as printability, gloss, barrier performance, and durability.
- Surface and colloid science: Studies interfacial phenomena, particle interactions, and stability in dispersed systems critical to process optimization and product performance.
- Fiber science and engineering: Examines the origin, structure, and behavior of natural and synthetic fibers, including their role in determining material strength, flexibility, and recyclability.
Paper Science and Engineering Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Paper Science and Engineering Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Paper Science and Engineering degrees, including Architectural and Engineering Managers, Chemical Engineers and Engineers, All Other. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 421,330 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Engineering Managers 11-9041 | $167,740 | $111,450 - $239,200 | 210,340 | $80.64 |
| Chemical Engineers 17-2041 | $121,860 | $78,520 - $182,150 | 20,330 | $58.59 |
| Engineers, All Other 17-2199 | $117,750 | $62,840 - $183,510 | 150,750 | $56.61 |
| Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1032 | $106,120 | $59,790 - $200,650 | 39,910 | N/A |
Paper Science and Engineering Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $102,468 in Arkansas to $153,260 in California—a 50% difference. The highest-paying states include California, New Mexico, and District of Columbia. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 421,330 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Paper Science and Engineering by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 3 institutions offering Paper Science and Engineering programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Paper Science and Engineering is found at Western Michigan University (WMU) (20 graduates), SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) (16 graduates), and University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) (10 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 46 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Michigan University (WMU) |
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
20 | Kalamazoo, Michigan | Public | wmich.edu |
| SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) |
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
16 | Syracuse, New York | Public | esf.edu |
| University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) |
Bachelor's
|
10 | Stevens Point, Wisconsin | Public | uwsp.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Paper Science and Engineering programs
How much can I earn with a Paper Science and Engineering degree?
Salaries for Paper Science and Engineering graduates vary by role and location. Architectural and Engineering Managers earn a median of $167,740 annually, while Chemical Engineers earn around $121,860. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $153,260 compared to $102,468 in Arkansas. Approximately 421,330 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Paper Science and Engineering programs?
Currently 3 accredited institutions offer Paper Science and Engineering degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Western Michigan University (WMU) (20 graduates), SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) (16 graduates), and University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) (10 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Paper Science and Engineering growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 22 in 2010 to 46 in 2023-24. This represents a 109% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Paper Science and Engineering degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Architectural and Engineering Managers, Chemical Engineers, and Engineers, All Other. Related occupations employ approximately 421,330 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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