The common focus of the field is the study of fibrous materials and their use as apparel, as engineering structures (such as composite materials), in biomedical applications, and in home furnishings. The Field of Fiber Science and Apparel Design are applied and multidisciplinary, with faculty members drawn from the Colleges of Human Ecology and Engineering.

Students are expected to develop strength in their base discipline as well as gain appropriate breadth to support the area of specialization. Active research programs exist in high-performance fibers and fiber-reinforced composites; Green composites; detergency and surface chemistry; perfume treated fabrics; textile materials in biomedical and geotechnical applications; polymers for electronics; liquid-crystal polymers; textile-dye chemistry; crystal morphology of fibers; electro spin of fibers; cellulose; apparel and fashion design, design ethnography; sizing and fit of apparel; functional apparel; cultural and historic studies of clothing and textiles; mass customization and technology; and technology management in the apparel industry.

For Ph.D. students, a minimum of four committee members are required: one faculty member representing the major, one for each of the two minor areas, and a fourth member appointed by the Director of Graduate Studies to act for the field. The oral and written Admission to Candidacy examination and the final oral examination are required for the Ph.D. degree. The field does not require a foreign language.

Concentrations by Subject

• Fiber science
• Polymer science
• Textile science

Learning Outcomes

Understand concepts and establish expertise in Fiber Science including:

• Theory and practice of fiber formation
• Rheology of solids: dynamic mechanical analysis of fibers and polymers
• Physical properties of fiber- forming polymers and fibers
• Chemistry of textile finishes and dyeing
• Properties of fibrous systems

Make an original and substantial contribution to an area of Fiber Science:

• Think originally and independently to develop concepts and methodologies
• Identify new research opportunities within the field of Fiber Science
• Incorporate approaches, techniques, skills or knowledge connecting Fiber Science with other disciplines

Demonstrate advanced research skills:

• Synthesize existing knowledge via coursework and literature review
• Master application of research techniques, technical skills and analysis
• Present research motivation, methods and results in written and oral formats