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BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FOREST RESOURCES WITH A MAJOR IN PAPER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

The PSE program applies natural products chemistry, chemical processing, and material science to the many uses of natural products and fiber based materials, including paper and biofuels manufacturing. The PSE program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202-4012 - telephone: (410) 347-7700.  Principal PSE faculty are in the College of Forest Resources, but the program also has supporting faculty from the College of Engineering’s Chemical Engineering Department. PSE students are provided the technical skills, knowledge, and problem solving tools to become leaders in the paper and emerging bioresource industries. Students benefit from small classes and leading-edge faculty research and gain experience through internships, resulting in excellent career opportunities. Program scholarships are available through the Washington Pulp and Paper Foundation.

PSE’s mission is to lead nationally and internationally in the preparation of undergraduate and graduate students for the pulp and paper segment of the world economy. The paper industry is one of the 10 largest in the U.S. Its products are essential to every citizen, with uses ranging from high tech packaging systems to non-woven medical applications. The industry is also a leader in developing products that do not harm the environment. Paper is the most recyclable material used in modern economies, and pulp mills are becoming important suppliers of biofuels and green energy, as well as fiber products. About 2,000 new graduates every year — nearly 300 from paper science and engineering programs including the PSE program at the University of Washignton — are employed in exciting and challenging careers in the paper and allied industries. PSE graduates find jobs in areas such as engineering, production, research, management, and marketing. Positions include process engineer, product development engineer, sales engineer, research scientist, computer and environmental scientist or engineer, production supervisor, and many specialists. PSE graduates have highly competitive starting salaries and are located across the U.S. and internationally.

The educational objectives of the PSE program are:

• PSE graduates will have strong technical skills that allow them to immediately contribute to their organizations and that provide a solid foundation for building technical expertise throughout their careers.
• PSE graduates will be outstanding problem solvers.
• PSE graduates will have the intellectual maturity to function well within their organizations and to contribute to society at large.

See the PSE Educational Objectives (pdf) document for details on how the objectives are implemented and assessed.

See the PSE Satisfactory Progress Policy (pdf) document for information on criteria and policy regarding satisfactory progress.

University of Washington applicants or current students interested in the PSE major may apply online through the College of Engineering, or by submitting a paper application form. Deadlines for Autumn Quarter are January 15 for freshman applicants and July 1 for UW or transfer applicants. For further information about the application process, contact the Office of Student and Academic Services.

PSE suggested course sequencing
PSE course checklist
PSE Engineering topics list

For more information, contact:

Office of Student and Academic Services
College of Forest Resources
University of Washington
Box 352100
Seattle, WA 98195-2100
email cfradv@u.washington.edu; FAX 206-685-0790; Phone 206-543-3077