Content of the training

During the HBO Master's in Polymer Engineering, you'll delve into innovative plastic materials and sustainable production processes. You'll develop expertise in cutting-edge technologies like design for cycling and actively contribute to the circular economy. In this two-year Master's program, you'll combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience in high-tech laboratories and collaborate with companies in the plastics industry. This will expand your knowledge and skills and allow you to play a crucial role in the future of sustainable plastics. Are you ready to make an impact as a specialist in a dynamic sector?

• The Polymer Engineering master's degree is a collaboration between Windesheim University of Applied Sciences and NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
• The study program has been developed in close collaboration with industry, so you will immediately acquire relevant knowledge and skills
• You specialize in the latest developments in plastic materials and sustainable production techniques
• During an extensive intake, we map out your expectations, ambitions and development points, so that you receive optimal support in your learning process. 

Form of the training (program)

In the first year Build a solid foundation in plastics, processing, applications, and market positioning. You'll start with polymer chemistry and mechanics, where you'll learn how plastic materials behave and how to apply this knowledge in production processes. You'll also delve into fluid dynamics to fully understand plastics processing. 
 

Processing methods and material properties 

You'll learn about various processing methods and discover how additives can influence the properties of plastics. Through excursions and guest lectures by industry experts, you'll gain valuable insights into the applications and future of plastics, with a strong focus on sustainability and circularity. Consider, for example, techniques like life cycle assessment (LCA) to assess the environmental impact of materials. 

Research and academic communication 

Research is a key component of the first year. You'll develop skills in research methods and literature review, with a special focus on academic English. This will not only teach you to understand international professional literature but also to clearly present your findings to fellow students and professionals. 
 

Preparing for a sustainable career 

This program prepares you for a future as a professional in the plastics industry. You'll gain insight into topics such as sustainability, ethics, quality, and safety, and learn how these aspects play a role within the sector. This way, you'll develop the expertise and responsibility to contribute to an innovative and circular plastics industry. 

In the second year In the Master's program in Polymer Engineering, you'll take the next step: applying your knowledge in challenging projects and preparing for your graduation project. You'll delve into the design and analysis of plastic products and processes, using advanced tools such as the finite element method (FEM) for mechanical simulations and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for flow analysis. You'll also explore the role of automation, robotics, and AI in the plastics industry. 

Professional skills and international context 

In addition to technical expertise, you'll also develop your professional skills. You'll learn to report clearly, organize efficiently, and reflect critically on your own work. You'll also receive training in English and intercultural communication, essential for an international work environment. Practical case studies involving biobased raw materials, reuse, and recycling will allow you to directly apply your knowledge of sustainable materials. 

Understanding the business side of the industry 

The plastics sector presents not only technical but also business challenges. Therefore, you'll gain insight into topics such as cost calculations, intellectual property, and marketing. This will give you a broader perspective on the dynamics within the plastics industry and teach you how innovation and commerce intersect. 

Graduating in practice 

During the final semester, you'll work on a graduation project at a company or research institute. The assignment, including supervision, is at the master's level and challenges you to put your knowledge and skills into practice. You'll complete the master's program with a thesis, a presentation, and a defense of your research, demonstrating that you're ready for a future as a specialist in the plastics industry.

Practical information

You can start the Master's in Polymer Engineering if you have a higher professional education bachelor's degree in: 

• Applied sciences
• Engineering 

Want to know if your previous education is a good fit? Contact us for personalized advice. 

As a student, you pay tuition fees every year. The amount depends on several factors, such as your nationality and any higher education qualifications you have already obtained. Read more about tuition fees and their amounts here.