RIT’s packaging science program was established in 1972 and is one of the most unique and respected in the country. One of only a handful in the nation to offer the program, the discipline provides students exposure to laboratory experience and real-life problem solving. Embedded into the program is the required full-time co-op with a company, and RIT is the only institute in the country that requires all packaging science students to experience this opportunity. This allows students to develop their professional skills, expand their real-world experience, and broaden their industry contacts. RIT’s relationship with industry leaders and the skills students obtain in development, sales, and purchasing results in professional careers within this multi-billion dollar industry. This relationship, along with the faculty being packaging professionals, ensures that students acquire the most current technological knowledge base.

The department is also home to an ISTA-certified lab, providing state-of-the-art package testing services. Equipped with advanced technology, the lab offers comprehensive testing to ensure packaging durability, integrity, and compliance with industry standards. From vibration and compression testing to environmental conditioning and drop impact analysis, RIT’s lab supports both academic research and industry partners in developing innovative, sustainable, and reliable packaging solutions.