A Legacy of Innovation
NDSU was the first university in the world to offer coatings courses in 1906. Today, the Department of Coatings and Polymeric Materials is the only formal department in the U.S., recognized internationally for its research and industry connections.
What Are Coatings and Polymeric Materials?
From plastics and paints to aerospace components and medical devices, coatings and polymers play a vital role in everyday life. Students explore how these materials protect, decorate, and drive innovation in high-tech industries.
Career Opportunities and Industry Demand
There is a growing shortage of polymer chemists specializing in coatings, making NDSU graduates highly sought after. Alumni work with major coatings, chemical, and petroleum companies, often in technical service, process engineering, or R&D roles. Opportunities also exist in biotechnology, automotive, electronics, and pharmacology, and graduates frequently continue their education at top graduate programs.
