Where Engineering Meets Sustainability
Engineers in the paper and biomaterials industry are shaping the future of sustainable products. As a paper science and engineering major, you’ll apply chemical engineering principles to sustainably transform renewable resources like wood, corn stalks and grasses into packaging, medical supplies, household items and more.
Our nationally recognized program combines chemical engineering, environmental science and business management to give you a broad, applied skill set. Through a partnership with NC State’s College of Engineering, you’ll also have the option to earn a dual degree in Chemical Engineering — often with just one additional semester of study.
$83,000 starting salary
Our graduates have one of the highest average starting salaries at NC State
100% job placement rate
Our students get jobs within 6 months of graduation
Internships earning $25+/hr
All students graduate with multiple internships or co-ops
Explore the Curriculum
Our semester-by-semester plan lays out the courses and experiences you’ll complete from your first year to graduation. It’s your roadmap to building the technical and professional skills that set our graduates apart. Popular minors include Business Administration, Chemistry, Industrial Engineering, Foreign Language.
“The program is tight-knit and supportive of all of its students’ endeavors. My classes are small, and I always see a familiar face anytime I go into the building.”
Elena Zuidema ’25
Connect with us in-person or virtually through info sessions and 1:1 meetings.
Hands-on Experiences that Lead to Jobs
At NC State, you’ll gain real-world skills on $12 million worth of in-house lab equipment and advanced machinery, including North America’s only on-campus paper machine capable of converting any biomass into pulp and paper.
Every student also completes at least one paid internship or co-op, earning $25–$36 per hour. With nearly 100% job placement and an average starting salary of $83,000, our graduates are in demand across industries that need innovative, sustainable solutions.
“I was able to secure an engineering internship just a month after starting at NC State, and I had a polished resume ready even before moving into my dorm.”
Sydney Tomlin ’24
Connect with Industry
To ensure your success, our Office of Career Services helps with resume building, interview preparation and connecting students directly with employers through key events including:
- Paper Science Industry Career Fair
- College of Natural Resources Career Fair
- Engineering Career Fair
- Departmental Interview Days
- Professional Association Information Sessions
What Can I Do with My Degree?
Ever wonder who designs the processes that make your notebooks or who innovates the packaging solutions for your favorite snacks? With a degree in Paper Science and Engineering, you could be shaping the future of paper and packaging industries.
Process Engineer
Become a key player in enhancing manufacturing efficiency and work on fine-tuning production processes to boost productivity, cut costs, and elevate product quality. Recent employers include International Paper.
Project Engineer
Design revolutionary processes and equipment that transform manufacturing operations. Collaborate with tech vendors, crunch numbers to forecast costs, and pitch your innovative projects for approval. Recent employers include Georgia-Pacific.
Supplier
Take the lead in testing and perfecting new products, chemicals, and equipment in the field, ensuring optimal performance. Recent employers include Solenis.
Mill Manager
Run the show at paper mills, overseeing all daily operations and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Recent employers include Sonoco Products Company.
Technical Support Engineer
Provide crucial technical assistance, conduct tests and analyses, and develop strategies to enhance operations. Recent employers include IBS Paper Performance Group.
Research and Development Technician
Conduct experiments and research to pioneer new products and refine existing processes. Recent employers include BASF.
Production Manager
Coordinate and oversee daily production activities, ensuring efficient operations and high-quality output. Recent employers include WestRock.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Choosing a major is a big decision. These FAQs highlight what makes paper science and engineering at NC State stand out and answer the questions we hear most from prospective students and families.
What is paper science?
Paper science and engineering is an engineering degree that combines chemical engineering, sustainability and materials science. Students learn how to transform renewable resources such as wood, corn stalks and grasses into packaging, medical supplies and household products.
Is paper science the same as chemical engineering?
No. Paper science and engineering focuses on sustainable biomaterials and paper production. However, students can earn a dual degree in chemical engineering with just one additional semester.
What jobs can I get with a paper science degree?
Graduates work as process engineers, project engineers, production managers, technical support engineers and researchers. Recent employers include International Paper, Georgia-Pacific, BASF, WestRock and Sonoco.
How much do paper science graduates make?
Graduates of the program earn one of the highest starting salaries at NC State. The average starting salary is about $83,000, and nearly 100% of graduates secure a job within six months of graduation.
Do paper science students get internships?
Yes. Every student completes multiple paid internships or co-ops. Students often earn $25 to $36 per hour, gaining valuable professional experience before graduation.
Do students get support from faculty and career services?
Yes. Students work closely with faculty in small classes and receive one-on-one mentoring throughout their degree. The Office of Career Services helps students build résumés, practice interviews and connect directly with employers. Faculty and advisors also guide students in securing internships and co-ops.
What makes NC State’s program different?
The program offers small, supportive classes with strong faculty mentorship. Students have access to $12 million in lab facilities, including North America’s only on-campus paper machine. The program also connects students to industry through career fairs and advisory boards. In addition, students can apply for more than $380,000 in scholarships awarded each year.
Does the program have strong industry and alumni connections?
Yes. The program partners with an active industry advisory board that provides scholarships and hiring opportunities. Alumni also mentor current students and help them build professional networks.
Is the program accredited?
Yes. The program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
How can I learn more?
Students and families can attend an information session, schedule a one-on-one meeting or request information online.
Related Degrees
Interested in the sustainability of raw materials but want to expand your focus outside of paper? Check out our Sustainable Materials and Technology degree where students explore how to develop and utilize materials from renewable sources.
The Paper Science Experience
