Mar 25, 2026  
2026-2027 Undergraduate Bulletin (DRAFT) 
    
2026-2027 Undergraduate Bulletin (DRAFT)

Packaging, B.S.


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Packaging, B.S.: 4-year sequence  

This program has an accelerated (UG+GR) option, allowing eligible students to begin their master’s degree while completing their bachelor’s degree. For more information and how to apply, see our Accelerated Programs (UG+GR) information page . 

Introduction

A packaging career today requires a thorough knowledge of materials, methods, design concepts, marketing, logistics, regulations, standards, test methods, environment, user interface, and machinery to develop and produce the packages that protect and preserve a product, help market the product and instruct the consumer in its proper use.

UW-Stout’s Bachelor of Science degree program in Packaging prepares students for technical or management responsibilities in the packaging industry to meet these needs. The program places strong emphasis on the application of theory to strengthen problem solving abilities and challenges students by providing opportunities to solve “real” packaging industry problems in classroom/laboratory settings.

The trend in the packaging industry is to hire employees who can function in more than one area at career entry. UW-Stout’s Packaging program recognizes this trend by offering the student several “emphasis” options which include course and laboratory work beyond the technical core of the program. 

With the quantity and variety of products produced in the world, it is easy to understand that packaging is a dynamic multibillion dollar industry in need of well-educated professionals. Graduates of the program are positioned advantageously for entry into the expanding and evolving packaging industry, as well as for further studies in the field of packaging.

General Requirements
Bachelor of Science Degree

Total for Graduation:         120 credits
Stout Core General Education Requirements:  33-36 credits
Major Requirements: 73 credits
Emphasis Area: 6 credits
Free Electives: to reach 120 credits
GPA Requirement: 2.6 minimum

Program Requirements


Stout Core General Education Requirements (CGER) (33-36 credits)


Math & Quantitative Reasoning (3-5 credits)


Social and Behavioral Sciences (6 credits)


Humanities & Arts (6 credits)


Natural Science & Wellness (6-7 credits)


Take at least one natural science with a lab.

Civics & Perspectives (3 credits)


Program Designated Courses


Some of the following required courses may fulfill Stout Core General Education Requirements (CGER) and program requirements.

Emphasis Areas (6-8 credits)


Select one of the 6 credit emphasis areas below to meet the 120 credit degree requirement.  Students have the option of selecting more than one emphasis area and/or emphaisis areas requiring more than 6 credits.

Food Technology (8 credits)


International Studies (6 credits)


Course plan must be approved by packaging Program Director.

Free Electives to Reach 120 Credits


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