Undergraduate Education

Hands-on and Real Life Experience

The undergraduate packaging program has a strong focus on hands-on experience with the incorporation of laboratories into most of our courses.

Internships are highly encouraged for all students and are a great learning opportunity. They allow students to develop professional skills, expand their real world experience, and develop industry contacts. We work with packaging companies to provide internship and permanent employment opportunities for our students. Internship opportunities are available with food packaging, corrugated packaging, packaging graphics, and various plastic packaging companies. Our in-house industry outreach center, the Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design, provides our students with a unique opportunity for hands-on real life learning experiences.

Small Class Sizes = Personal Connection

Our small class sizes provide extensive interaction between instructors and students. Collaborative team projects are a vital part of every course. Because communication skills are essential in every industry, the packaging science program provides numerous opportunities for each student to advance his or her presentation and public speaking skills.

Up-to-date Curriculum

By working closely with members of the packaging industry, the faculty of the packaging program frequently modifies courses to teach the most current technical knowledge. Because courses keep up with the latest industry findings, students graduate with relevant knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

Focus on Sustainability

As a part of the Department of Sustainable Biomaterials, the packaging program at Virginia Tech focuses heavily on sustainability. Sustainable packaging is a growing industry and our students are trained to pay attention to this global trend. Sustainability is built into all of our classes. Students work with local companies to develop sustainable packaging solutions that have positive environmental impacts.

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