phd in textile science

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PHD, Polymer, Fiber, & Textile Sciences

We integrate instruction with relevant research on textile fiber and polymer science, merchandising and international trade, consumer behavior, historic and cultural aspects of dress and textiles, and design solutions for residential interiors.

Degree Type: Doctoral

Degree Program Code: PHD_PFTS

Degree Program Summary:

The department of Textiles, Merchandising and Interiors offers two areas of study under the Ph.D. degree: Polymer, Fiber & Textile Sciences and International Merchandising. The Ph.D. Emphasis in Polymer, Fiber & Textile Sciences provides opportunities for individuals who wish to pursue research in this area of science at the frontier of the discipline. The Ph. D. Emphasis in International Merchandising provides opportunities for concentrated study in international apparel and textiles retailing, international production and trade, global sourcing, international business practices and e-commerce in a global setting.

The Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Interiors offers graduate programs leading to the Master of Science and the Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The Ph.D. program provides students with the opportunity to pursue scholarly activities in Polymer, Fiber and Textile Sciences and International Merchandising. Students take core courses in the department and courses outside the department in statistics and their concentration and supporting area. A dissertation is required of all Ph.D.

Locations Offered:

Athens (Main Campus)

College / School:

College of Family & Consumer Sciences

Dawson Hall 305 Sanford Drive Athens, GA 30602

706-542-4847

Department:

Textiles, Merchandising and Interiors

Graduate Coordinator(s):

Yoo-Kyoung Seock

Phone Number:

706-542-7353

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The Graduate School Brooks Hall 310 Herty Drive Athens, GA 30602 706.542.1739

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Fiber Science Graduate Programs

The Fiber Science Program focuses on the study of fibrous materials and their use in a variety of conventional and non-conventional applications. Students become expert researchers in such areas as high-performance fibers and fiber-reinforced composites, detergency and surface chemistry, textile materials in geotechnical and biomedical applications, polymers for electronics and textile dye chemistry.  With the help of a special committee, each student in the field plans an individualized course of study linking their background and interests with the extensive educational resources of Cornell University. Core courses include:

• FSAD 6160: Rheology of Solids: Dynamic Mechanical Analysis of Fibers & Polymers
• FSAD 6200: Physical Properties of Fiber Forming Polymers and Fibers
• FSAD 6400: Polymer & Fiber Characterization 
• FSAD 6260: Advanced Textile Chemistry
• FSAD 6460: NanoTechnology of Fibers and Textiles
• FSAD 6860: Mechanics of Fibrous Assemblies and their Composites
• FSAD 6660: Fiber Formation Theory and Practice

A written thesis is required for completion of all graduate degrees in Fiber Science & Apparel Design. Candidates for the Ph.D. require at least three years of full-time study beyond the master's degree. Candidates for the M.S. usually complete their degree requirements within two years.

Required minors

Two minor areas of study are required of Ph.D. students and one minor area is required of M.S. students. Often students select minors in the physical sciences, engineering, economics, marketing, computer science, communication or other fields within the graduate school. Students may select minors depending on their previous specializations; educational preparation in textiles, or polymer science and/or apparel; mathematics, chemistry, physics or economics.

Faculty research

The current research areas of  faculty members include surface modification of high-performance fibers for composites, novel techniques for fiber and polymer morphology studies, protective clothing for agricultural, industrial, and medical workers, electrostatic technique for fiber spinning, fully degradable "green" composites, reinforcement of cement concrete by fibers, synthesis of biologically active biodegradable fibers, role of free radicals in degradation of biodegradable fibers, novel chemical synthesis of degradable polymers and fibers for tissue engineering and regeneration.

In addition to the faculty from HCD, fiber science is actively pursued by faculty from various departments, including chemical engineering, chemistry, civil engineering, materials science and engineering and theoretical and applied mechanics.

Fiber Science is a  STEM  field, giving graduates an additional 24 months of OPT upon graduation.  For more information, contact the  Office of Global Learning .

For a complete program description, see the  graduate student handbook.

The fall admission deadline is December 15.   We do not admit for spring.  Graduate study applications are submitted directly to the Graduate School of Cornell University, which has jurisdiction over all graduate work and advanced academic degrees.  A complete application includes a statement of purpose, a personal statement, unofficial transcripts, and two (preferably three) letters of recommendation.  Please do not include copies of certificates, passports or other documents.  We will not review your application until it is fully complete, including TOEFL/IELTS test scores. No individual faculty member can offer you admission.  A graduate admissions committee will read your application when it is complete and make the decision. 

Please email the Graduate Field Assistant for pre-application information.

Application fee waivers are available in the application.

Admissions are based on evidence of potential capability for advanced study. Applicants for the Ph.D. must already hold a master's degree. We do not require the GRE.

International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language by taking a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam. Minimum TOEFL scores are as follows: Writing 20, Listening 15, Reading 20, Speaking 26, as well as a minimum total score of 100 . If ALL of these scores and the total are not met, applications will not be reviewed. The Graduate School requires an overall band score of a 7.0 or higher on the IELTS.  

For more information, including waiver information, see the graduate school’s website: https://gradschool.cornell.edu/admissions/prepare/english-language-proficiency-requirement/ .

Cornell University expects all applicants to complete their application materials without the use of paid agents, credentials services or other paid professional assistance. The use of such services violates university policy, and may lead to the rejection of application materials, the revocation of an admissions offer, cancellation of admission or involuntary withdrawal from the university.

Applicants who wish to specialize in fiber science, for the M.S. or Ph.D. degree, must have completed courses in calculus, physics and organic chemistry. Applicants for the PhD must already hold an MS in textile chemistry, textile science, polymer science, engineering, chemistry, physics, applied mathematics or a similar discipline. Applicants may be required to make up any deficiencies before admission or as part of the requirements for the degree.

Financial support, in the form of teaching assistantships, graduate research assistantships or fellowships is offered with acceptance to Ph.D. students only. Full assistantships include tuition, fees and individual health insurance. Assistantships are offered for four academic years, mid-August through mid-May.  Continued funding is contingent upon acceptable academic performance constituting good standing in your graduate field and satisfactory fulfillment of any teaching or research responsibilities as defined by your assistantship supervisor.

The department does not provide financial support for master's students. 

Graduate Studies

• Master of Science

The Textiles Graduate Program gives students an in-depth interdisciplinary knowledge of textiles including the social and physical sciences in relation to textile usage, and the ability to design and conduct research in textiles and to interpret and communicate the results and conclusions. Students in the program can emphasize either the physical science, behavior aspects, or the integrated studies of textiles and fibrous materials. Research areas include chemical, physical, biochemical, and mechanical properties of fibers and polymers as well as fibrous assemblies, including composites, paper, and nonwovens. Extensive specialized fiber, polymer, and textiles research facilities and a behavioral research laboratory are available. The members of the graduate program include the faculty of the Division of Textiles and Clothing as well as faculty from other departments representing related fields such as cultural studies, design, psychology, consumer science, chemistry, engineering, and materials science.

Graduate Program Requirements

Contact information.

There are two options offered at the Ph.D. level that allow you to do cutting edge research in the lab for our PFT sciences program or study consumers and merchandising techniques in the International setting.

Polymer, Fiber, and Textile Sciences

This program is designed for those who want to pursue research at the frontier of the discipline. You will learn to initiate and conduct research related to:

• Polymers and fibers
• Fabrication of advanced multifunctional fibers and their surface functionalization
• Stimuli-responsive fibers and nanostructured biomaterials
• Biobased plastics/composites
• Biodegradable polymer products
• Enzymatic treatment of textiles
• Smart textiles and apparel
• Medical textiles
• Analytical chemistry and characterization of fibers and textiles
• Product design and development
• Quality and statistical analysis
• Environmental chemistry
• Materials sciences

International Merchandising Emphasis

This program provides opportunities for concentrated study in the following topic areas:

• International Apparel and Textiles Retailing
• International Production and Trade
• Global Sourcing
• International Business Practices
• E-commerce in a Global Setting
• Historic & Cultural Aspects of Dress

Study Abroad

You will have opportunities to study abroad in:

Yoo-Kyoung Seock

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Address/Map

Dawson Hall 305 Sanford Dr Athens, GA 30602

SSAC 706-542-4847

Administration, Alumni, Communications 706-542-6402

/images/cornell/logo35pt_cornell_white.svg" alt="phd in textile science"> Cornell University --> Graduate School

Apparel design ph.d. (ithaca), field of study.

Fiber Science and Apparel Design

Program Description

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 is 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; electrospin 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. Outstanding facilities for research and study are available in the College of Human Ecology and the College of Engineering. Textile and polymer science laboratories are equipped with modern instrumentation for chemical, physical, and mechanical analysis and with a controlled temperature and humidity room. Apparel design studios are equipped with industrial sewing equipment. Video image-capture and photography equipment is available in a visual analysis lab. The functional apparel lab houses a variety of human-factors testing equipment, including a full-body scanner.

Contact Information

208 Martha Van Rensselaer Hall Cornell University Ithaca, NY  14853

Concentrations by Subject

• apparel design

Visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Fall, December 15

Requirements Summary:

• all Graduate School Requirements , including the  English Language Proficiency Requirement for all applicants
• two recommendations and recommendation forms
• pre-application for Ph.D. applicants; request form from field via e-mail
• portfolio for Apparel Design applicants

Admission is based on evidence of potential for advanced study. Pre-applications are required for M.A., M.S., and Ph.D. programs; forms are available from the address above. Applicants to the Ph.D. program in fiber science should have an M.S. degree in textile chemistry, textile science, polymer science, engineering, chemistry, physics, applied mathematics, or a similar discipline. Applicants who do not have an appropriate M.S. degree should apply to the M.S./Ph.D. program. Applicants who want to pursue studies in apparel design may be required to submit a portfolio to the Director of Graduate Studies, if their research interests involve a design component.

*The Field's minimum TOEFL requirement is higher than the Graduate School's. Applicants must achieve a total score of at least 100, with a Speaking subscore of at least 26.

Learning Outcomes

Establish general expertise in Apparel Design including:

• Anthropology of the Fashioned Body
• Understanding Functional Aspects of Clothing and Design
• Human Factors: Anthropometrics and Apparel
• Fashion Theory
• Fashion, Media and Technology
• Fashion and Beauty
• Functional Aspects of Clothing and Design

Make an original and substantial contribution to an area of Apparel Design:

• Think originally and independently to develop concepts and methodologies
• Identify new research opportunities within the field of Apparel Design
• Incorporate approaches, techniques, skills or knowledge connecting Apparel Design 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

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PhD opportunities

Mphil/ phd at the school of textiles and design.

We offer PhDs allowing students to specialise in a specific area of Research relating to technical textiles, sustainable design or cultural heritage.

Textile Science and Technology

Research in textile science and technology has developed to reflect the expansion of the technical textiles discipline, while still maintaining activity in important traditional textiles.Technical textiles encompasses a wide variety of functional products, and a key area is the application in medical and health care products.

Textile Design and Clothing Manufacture

The Research Institute for Flexible Materials (RIFleX), under the leadership of Professor George Stylios, carries out leading research at the textile/clothing interface, for example, in methods for measurement of textile aesthetics and for fabric mechanics.

MPhil/PhD Practice-Based Design

This common mode of research in the area of art and design and has grown enormously over the past decade. It involves the exploration of a subject of enquiry through practical work accompanied by a related text. The relative weight of these elements varies for each project.

PhD scholarship opportunities

We offer a limited number of James Watt Scholarships. Our scholarships are aligned to specific research projects and follow a competitive recruitment process.

"My PhD journey was like riding a rollercoaster, without help and support from my supervisors and academic staff I would not have completed the PhD degree. Furthermore, I have gained more confidence in my academic skills and am ready to work on an educational career path."

Pathitta Nirunpornputta , PhD Graduate

Postgraduate Programmes

We have a number of Postgraduate programmes in Fashion, Textiles and Design offered at both our UK and Dubai campuses.

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

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Discover more about postgraduate research

PhD/MPhil Textiles and Apparel / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered. Please contact the admissions team to check.

Full entry requirements

Apply online

In your application you’ll need to include:

• The name of this programme
• Your research project title (i.e. the advertised project name or proposed project name) or area of research
• Your proposed supervisor’s name
• If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
• A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
• Details of your previous university level study
• Names and contact details of your two referees.

Programme options

Programme description.

The Department of Materials encompasses an exceptional breadth of research and training in materials, from design and development, to performance and protection and management and marketing. Our multidisciplinary research activity covers broad, socially relevant materials themes that allow us to meet the needs of industry and society.

Our research is organised into eight research themes , although research projects often involve researchers in other groups, other schools, other universities and industry.

Current research in this textiles and apparel is concerned with developing advanced textile materials, technologies and products for a variety of applications, from biomedical devices, advanced composites for aerospace technologies, personal protective devices, sportswear and smart wearables to 3D body scanning and digital platforms for fashion e-business models.

A research degree from the Department and the University is held in the highest esteem and recognised worldwide. Many of our textiles and apparel graduates have progressed to successful academic careers and industry positions in reputable organisations worldwide.

The Department provides first-class opportunities and facilities for our students to study specific subjects in-depth to a postgraduate research degree level through the Faculty's Graduate Development Training Programme as well as the opportunity to access Alliance Manchester Business Department's doctoral research training programme. You will become part of a strong research culture in the Department, embedded through a programme research seminars given by research students, academic staff and external speakers, as well as an annual Postgraduate Research Conference. There are flexible study packages available, as well as a range of  PhD studentships  and  University funding packages . Please contact us to find out more.

The Department provides first-class opportunities and facilities for our students to study specific subjects in-depth to a postgraduate research degree level  through the Faculty's Graduate Development Training Programme as well as the opportunity to access Alliance Manchester Business Department's doctoral research training programme. You will become part of a strong research culture in the Department, embedded through a programme research seminars given by research students, academic staff and external speakers, as well as an annual Postgraduate Research Conference.

There are flexible study packages available, as well as an extensive range of postgraduate research studentships and projects , and funding, scholarships and awards with many of our research students sponsored by a variety of Department, University and industry resources.

Visit our research projects page to browse our range of currently available projects.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £4,786; Band B £7,000; Band C £10,000; Band D £14,500; Band E £24,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £28,000; Band B £30,000; Band C £35,500; Band D £43,000; Band E £57,000
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £2393; Band B £3,500; Band C £5,000; Band D £7,250; Band E 12,250 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £14,000; Band B £15,000; Band C £17,750; Band D £21,500; Band E £28,500

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

The programme fee will vary depending on the cost of running the project. Fees quoted are fully inclusive and, therefore, you will not be required to pay any additional bench fees or administration costs.

All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of the course for Home students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please visit the postgraduate fees page .

Always contact the Admissions team if you are unsure which fees apply to your project.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

To be considered for many of our scholarships, you’ll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

For more information about our scholarships, visit our funding page or use our funding database to search for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

Contact details

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality.  Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .

Programmes in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

• Textiles and Apparel

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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North Carolina State University PhD in Textile Sciences & Engineering

Textile Sciences & Engineering is a concentration offered under the textile engineering major at North Carolina State University. We’ve gathered data and other essential information about the doctor’s degree program in textile sciences and engineering, such as diversity of students, how many students graduated in recent times, and more.

If there’s something special you’re looking for, you can use one of the links below to find it:

• Graduate Cost
• Online Learning
• Student Diversity

How Much Does a Doctorate in Textile Sciences and Engineering from NC State Cost?

Nc state graduate tuition and fees.

In 2019-2020, the average part-time graduate tuition at NC State was $1,468 per credit hour for out-of-state students. The average for in-state students was $505 per credit hour. The average full-time tuition and fees for graduate students are shown in the table below.

Does NC State Offer an Online PhD in Textile Sciences and Engineering?

Online degrees for the NC State textile sciences and engineering doctor’s degree program are not available at this time. To see if the school offers distance learning options in other areas, visit the NC State Online Learning page.

NC State Doctorate Student Diversity for Textile Sciences and Engineering

Male-to-female ratio.

About 64.3% of the students who received their PhD in textile sciences and engineering in 2019-2020 were women. This is in the same ballpark of the nationwide number of 64.3%.

Racial-Ethnic Diversity

Of those graduates who received a doctor’s degree in textile sciences and engineering at NC State in 2019-2020, 3.6% were racial-ethnic minorities*. This is about the same as the nationwide number of 4%.

*The racial-ethnic minorities count is calculated by taking the total number of students and subtracting white students, international students, and students whose race/ethnicity was unknown. This number is then divided by the total number of students at the school to obtain the racial-ethnic minorities percentage.

• National Center for Education Statistics
• O*NET Online

More about our data sources and methodologies .

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Course offered: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Programme.

Current areas of doctoral and post-doctoral research include study of structure and properties of fibres and fibrous materials, analysis and design of yarn and fabric formation systems, mechanics of production processes, comfort properties of textiles, optimization and mechanism of dyeing and preparatory processes, eco friendly processing, micro encapsulation, antimicrobial finishes, nanotechnology applications, plasma treatment, design of technical textiles, smart and innovative textiles, electroconductive textiles, medical textiles and tissue engineering, polymer composites and apparel engineering. The activities are supported by several funded projects.

Course Details:

Doctorate & Post Doctoral Research Areas Textile Engineering: Analysis and design of yarn and fabric formation systems such as rotor spinning, friction spinning, weaving, knitting, braiding etc., structural mechanics of yarns, knits, woven, braided and nonwoven materials, comfort, handle and other functional aspects of fibrous assemblies, Design and development of technical textiles such as geotextiles, filters fabrics, medical textiles, packaging textiles etc., systems analysis, textile production and marketing. Textile Chemical Technology: Chitosan Chemistry And Application, Isolation And Application Of Sericin, Surface Functionalization By Plasma And UV Excimer Lamp, Micro-Encapsulation And Nano Encapsulation, Processing Of Bamboo Fibres, Natural Dyes, Dyeing And Finishing, Conducting Fabrics, Bio-active Fabrics, Textile Ecology And Environment. Fibre Science & Technology: Synthesis and characterization of advanced polymeric materials. Structure property correlation, Functional polymers and systems , Stimuli responsive polymers and Phase change materials for heat storage, Modification of natural and synthetic fibres , Nanofibers by electrostatic spinning, Polymeric Nanocomposites, Nano clay based coatings and composites, Nano engineered fire resistant composite fibres, Biomedical applications of Textiles, Sustainability and polymer recycling, Modeling and simulation, Green composites, High stress elastic Materials (ropes/braided structures).

IIT Campus, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, Delhi 110016 Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110016

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Textiles, Merchandising, Fashion Design

Textile Science Option

The textile science option integrates the development, acquisition, distribution, and utilization of textiles. As a student in this program, you will gain a broad knowledge base in both physical and social sciences, as related to the study of textiles, clothing and design, and will be prepared for advanced studies or a career in textiles and clothing such as production, testing or technical service.

Hours Required

Program features, hands-on experience.

Apply what you've learned and gain practical experience through an internship. Students have completed internships with organizations such as F2NYC Accessories in New York City, Home Shopping Network in St. Petersburg, Florida and Sweat Ethic in Corona, California.

Technology-Driven

Prepare for a career in a technology-dominated workplace by gaining experience with state-of-the-art industry software, including inventory control information systems, spreadsheet analysis and 3D Visual Merchant.

Student Organizations

Develop your professional network and interact with peers who have similar interests by joining a recognized student organization such as the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists.

Global Experiences

Explore culture, design and fashion in Germany or gain insights into the apparel industry and fashion design in Korea during faculty-led global experiences.

Notable Courses

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Technical experience in stitch applications, garment construction and finishes, and fundamental fit. Experiences in diverse disciplines within the department and their relation to global industries.

Explore color concepts in two- and three-dimensional formats. Emphasis on applications to visual merchandising, product development and fashion design.

Physical and chemical analysis of textiles using standard testing procedures. The calculation, interpretation and evaluation of test results.

Theories and research findings about the social, cultural and psychological aspects of clothing and appearance in relation to the self and others.

Application classes of dyes. Physical and chemical properties of dyes within each class, methods of dye-fiber association, fastness properties of dyes and recommended application procedures.

Chemistry of carbon compounds including basic principles of bonding and structure, properties and reactions of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, stereochemistry and spectroscopy.

Huskers Do Big Things

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Internships

• International Quilt Study Center and Museum
• Quality Engineer, Guilford Performance Textiles
• Patent Examiner, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
• Senior Consumer Scientist, Whirlpool Corp.
• Textile & Apparel Designer, Cabela's

Graduate Schools

• M.A., Apparel Design, Nebraska
• M.S. Textile Science, Nebraska
• MBA@Nebraska

Have Questions? We're Here to Help

If you have questions about the Textile Science option within the Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design major, contact us.

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Human sciences (phd) - material culture and textile studies.

The goal of the Ph.D. in  Human Sciences with a specialization in Material Culture and Textile Studies is to educate professionals and academics who can comprehensively apply theory, research, and knowledge in their respective and chosen career fields.

Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the various applications and methodologies that incorporate and/or focus on object-based research as a primary means of studying the cultural, social, economic, political, and personal experiences of people, both past and present. Related fields such as (but not limited to) history, art history, anthropology, sociology and women’s and gender studies are included in the specialization to enhance students’ abilities to understand and apply concepts and theories from outside their particular area of expertise and contribute to the development of original research and advancement of knowledge in the interdisciplinary field of material culture.

See Textiles for more information.

Admission Requirements

• GRE (optional)
• Personal Statement: Letter of application describing educational and career goals .
• Portfolio: The portfolio is recommended for Material Culture applicants.
• Writing Sample: Any of the following would be an appropriate writing sample: Manuscript or published article resulting from earlier research, such as master's thesis; Paper given at professional meeting; substantial paper, such as review of literature; Grant proposal; Critique of a research article; Professional materials developed for use in one's workplace; Course paper.
• Three recommendation letters

Textiles, Merchandising, and Fashion Design

UNL Graduate Chairs and staff please complete the program update form to provide edits. Updates to graduate program pages are made on an annual basis in conjunction with the Graduate Application for Admission.

Textile and Paper Engineering

COORDINATOR

• Roncero Vivero, Blanca

Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral Degree Studies Management Area C/ Colom 11 - Terrassa Campus Tel.: (+34) 937 398 638 E-mail: [email protected]

This doctoral programme provides training in research, development and innovation technologies at the highest level and with criteria of excellence and innovation in the areas of textile and paper engineering. The general aim is to develop a UPC doctoral programme in the field of textile and paper engineering to prepare doctoral degree holders who complete the programme to carry out and lead research projects.

General information

Access profile.

Given the multidisciplinary nature of the scientific field of the programme, there are a wide range of degrees that qualify applicants for admission. The most suitable prior learning to enter the doctoral programme in Textile and Paper Engineering will correspond, in the near future, to graduates with scientific and technological backgrounds who have taken the master’s degree in Textile Design and Technology, the master’s degree in Paper and Graphics Technology, the master’s degree in Textile, Paper and Graphics Engineering, the master’s degree in Fibrous Material Technology Engineering (specialisations in Textile Engineering or Paper and Graphics Engineering) or a related master’s degree in the scientific area of the programme.

In addition to this academic background, certain personal characteristics will be considered important, such as interest in the research projects that are developed in the programme, critical and analytical capacity, taking initiative, perseverance and persistence in work, and the capacity to work in a team and communicate well in spoken and written form.

Output profile

Doctoral candidates who complete a doctoral degree will have acquired the following competencies, which are needed to carry out quality research ( Royal Decree 99/2011, of 28 January, which regulates official doctoral studies ):

a) A systematic understanding of the field of study and a mastery of the research skills and methods related to the field. b) An ability to conceive, design or create, put into practice and adopt a substantial process of research or creation. c) An ability to contribute to pushing back the frontiers of knowledge through original research. d) A capacity for critical analysis and an ability to assess and summarise new and complex ideas. e) An ability to communicate with the academic and scientific community and with society in general as regards their fields of knowledge in the manner and languages that are typical of the international scientific community to which they belong. f) An ability to foster scientific, technological, social, artistic and cultural progress in academic and professional contexts within a knowledge-based society.

The award of a doctoral degree must equip the graduate for work in a variety of settings, especially those requiring creativity and innovation. Doctoral graduates must have at least acquired the personal skills needed to:

a) Develop in contexts in which there is little specific information. b) Find the key questions that must be answered to solve a complex problem. c) Design, create, develop and undertake original, innovative projects in their field. d) Work as part of a team and independently in an international or multidisciplinary context. e) Integrate knowledge, deal with complexity and make judgements with limited information. f) Offer criticism on and intellectually defend solutions.

Finally, with respect to competencies, doctoral students must: a) have acquired advanced knowledge at the frontier of their discipline and demonstrated, in the context of internationally recognised scientific research, a deep, detailed and well-grounded understanding of theoretical and practical issues and scientific methodology in one or more research fields; b) have made an original and significant contribution to scientific research in their field of expertise that has been recognised as such by the international scientific community; c) have demonstrated that they are capable of designing a research project that serves as a framework for carrying out a critical analysis and assessment of imprecise situations, in which they are able to apply their contributions, expertise and working method to synthesise new and complex ideas that yield a deeper knowledge of the research context in which they work; d) have developed sufficient autonomy to set up, manage and lead innovative research teams and projects and scientific collaborations (both national and international) within their subject area, in multidisciplinary contexts and, where appropriate, with a substantial element of knowledge transfer; e) have demonstrated that they are able to carry out their research activity in a socially responsible manner and with scientific integrity; f) have demonstrated, within their specific scientific context, that they are able to make cultural, social or technological advances and promote innovation in all areas within a knowledge-based society; g) have demonstrated that they are able to participate in scientific discussions at the international level in their field of expertise and disseminate the results of their research activity to audiences of all kinds.

Number of places

Duration of studies and dedication regime.

Duration The maximum period of study for full-time doctoral studies is four years, counted from the date of first enrolment in the relevant programme until the date on which the doctoral thesis is deposited. The academic committee of the doctoral programme may authorise a doctoral candidate to pursue doctoral studies on a part-time basis. In this case, the maximum period of study is seven years from the date of first enrolment in the programme until the date on which the doctoral thesis is deposited. To calculate these periods, the date of deposit is considered to be the date on which the thesis is made publicly available for review.

If a doctoral candidate has a degree of disability equal to or greater than 33%, the maximum period of study is six years for full-time students and nine years for part-time students.

For full-time doctoral candidates, the minimum period of study is two years, counted from the date of an applicant's admission to the programme until the date on which the doctoral thesis is deposited; for part-time doctoral candidates it is four years.

When there are justified grounds for doing so, and the thesis supervisor and academic tutor have given their authorisation, doctoral candidates may request that the academic committee of their doctoral programme exempt them from the requirement to complete this minimum period of study.

Temporary disability leave and leave for the birth of a child, adoption or fostering for the purposes of adoption, temporary foster care, risk during pregnancy or infant feeding, gender violence and any other situation provided for in current regulations do not count towards these periods. Students who find themselves in any of these circumstances must notify the academic committee of the doctoral programme, which must inform the Doctoral School.

Doctoral candidates may request periods of temporary withdrawal from the programme for up to a total of two years. Requests must be justified and addressed to the academic committee responsible for the programme, which will decide whether or not to grant the candidate's request.

Extension of studies If a doctoral candidate has not applied to deposit their thesis before the expiry of the deadlines specified in the previous section, the academic committee of the doctoral programme may, at the request of the doctoral candidate, authorise an extension of this deadline of one year under the conditions specified for the doctoral programme in question.

Dismissal from the doctoral programme A doctoral candidate may be dismissed from a doctoral programme for the following reasons:

• The doctoral candidate submitting a justified application to withdraw from the programme.
• The doctoral candidate not having completed their annual enrolment or applied for a temporary interruption.
• The doctoral candidate not having formalised annual enrolment on the day after the end of the authorisation to temporarily interrupt or withdraw from the programme.
• The doctoral candidate receiving a negative reassessment after the deadline set by the academic committee of the doctoral programme to remedy the deficiencies that led to a previous negative assessment.
• The doctoral candidate having been the subject of disciplinary proceedings leading to their suspension or permanent exclusion from the UPC.
• A refusal to authorise the extensions applied for, in accordance with the provisions of Section 3.3 of these regulations.
• The doctoral candidate not having submitted the research plan in the period established in Section 8.2 of these regulations.
• The maximum period of study for the doctoral degree having ended, in accordance with the provisions of Section 3.4 of these regulations.

Dismissal from the programme means that the doctoral candidate cannot continue studying at the UPC and that their academic record will be closed. This notwithstanding, they may apply to the academic committee of the programme for readmission, and the committee must reevaluate the candidate in accordance with the criteria established in the regulations.

A doctoral candidate who has been dismissed due to having exceeded the time limit for completing doctoral studies or due to an unsatisfactory assessment may not be Academic Regulations for Doctoral Studies Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya Page 17 of 33 admitted to the same doctoral programme until at least two years have elapsed from the date of dismissal, as provided for in sections 3.4 and 9.2 of these regulations.

Legal framework

• Royal Decree 99/2011, of 28 January, which regulates official doctoral studies (consolidated version)
• Academic regulations for doctoral studies (CG/2023/09/08)

Organization

• Ardanuy Raso, Monica
• Cayuela Marin, Diana
• Cusola Aumedes, Oriol
• Valls Vidal, Cristina
• Terrassa Institute of Textile Research and Industrial Cooperation (PROMOTORA)
• Department of Graphic and Design Engineering
• Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy
• Terrassa Institute of Textile Research and Industrial Cooperation

Agreements with other institutions

Collaborations are undertaken with national and international universities and research centres. The types of collaboration are: exchanges of doctoral students, participation in joint projects (Spanish and European), use of equipment, examination committees, thesis assessment. Below are some of the collaborating researchers. F. IJ Pastor, University of Barcelona, Department of Microbiology. José Carlos del Río, IRNAS-CSIC, Seville Ana Gutiérrez, IRNAS-CSIC, Seville José Ariza, University of Huelva, Department of Chemical Engineering and Inorganic Chemistry Gumersido Feijó, University of Santiago de Compostela, Department of Chemical Engineering Ángeles Sanromán, University of Vigo, Department of Chemical Engineering Jean Claude Sigoillot, UMR INRA-BCF, 163, Avenue de Luminy, 13288 Marseille (France) Graziano Elegi, Stazione Sperimentale Carta, Cartoni e Paste per Carta the Italian Pulp and Paper Research Institute, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci, 16 - 20133 Milan (Italy) Carlos Pascoal Neto, University of Aveiro, Department of Chemistry Campus Universitário de Santiago - 3810-193 Aveiro (Portugal) Jiebing Li, Royal Institute of Technology, Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan (KTH) Teknikningen, 56-58 - 10044 Stockholm (Sweden) Albert Manich, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (CSIC) C/ Jordi Girona 18-26 - 08034 Barcelona Orlando Rojas, Faculty of Chemistry and Materials Sciences, Department of Forest Products Vuorimiehentie 1. Espoo - FI-00076 Aalto (Finland) M. Soledad Peresin, University of Aurbun Edith Marleny Cadena, National University of Colombia, Medellín You-Lo Hsieh, University of California Davis, Materials Science and Engineering Davis (USA) Miguel Ángel Rodríguez-Pérez, University of Valladolid, Department of Condensed Matter Physics Romildo Dias Toledo Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (COPPE/UFRJ), Civil Engineering Department, Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Holmer Savastano Junior, University of São Paulo, Department of Biosystems Engineering São Paulo (Brazil) . Qian Hongfei, PhD, Shaoxing University, School of Textile and Apparel Shaoxing (China)

Access, admission and registration

Access requirements.

As a rule, applicants must hold a Spanish bachelor's degree or equivalent and a Spanish master's degree or equivalent, provided they have completed a minimum of 300 ECTS credits on the two degrees ( Royal Decree 43/2015, of 2 February ).

Applicants who meet one or more of the following conditions are also eligible for admission:

a) Holders of official Spanish degrees or equivalent Spanish qualifications, provided they have passed 300 ECTS credits in total and they can prove they have reached Level 3 in the Spanish Qualifications Framework for Higher Education. b) Holders of degrees awarded in foreign education systems in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), which do not require homologation, who can prove that they have reached Level 7 in the European Qualifications Framework, provided the degree makes the holder eligible for admission to doctoral studies in the country in which it was awarded. c) Holders of degrees awarded in a country that does not belong to the EHEA, which do not require homologation, on the condition that the University is able to verify that the degree is of a level equivalent to that of official university master's degrees in Spain and that it makes the holder eligible for admission to doctoral studies in the country in which it was awarded. d) Holders of another doctoral degree. e) Holders of an official university qualification who, having been awarded a post as a trainee in the entrance examination for specialised medical training, have successfully completed at least two years of training leading to an official degree in a health sciences specialisation.

Note 1: Regulations for access to doctoral studies for individuals with degrees in bachelor's, engineering, or architecture under the system prior to the implementation of the EHEA (CG 47/02 2014).

Note 2: Agreement number 64/2014 of the Governing Council approving the procedure and criteria for assessing the academic requirements for admission to doctoral studies with non-homologated foreign degrees (CG 25/03 2014).

Admission criteria and merits assessment

The academic committee of the doctoral programme will assess applications taking into account the following aspects:

• Academic record (weighting: 40%). • Personal contact through questionnaires, exercises, interviews (personal, telephone, Skype, etc.), personal interview (face-to-face, telephone, Skype, etc.) (weighting: 20%). The interview will be held before two doctoral degree holders from the programme, one from each research line. They will assess: the academic and professional career (when applicable), whether the applicant has had previous contact with subject areas in one of the research lines, a previous research visit in research groups or centres, placements in companies relating to the research lines. • Motivation (weighting: 10%). They will assess: interest in research lines on the doctoral programme; availability for mobility; availability to collaborate with other groups; teamwork; collaboration in research projects. • Knowledge of languages: level of English above the minimum that is required, German and French, among others (weighting: 20%). • Research experience (weighting: 10%).

Training complements

The academic committee for the programme may require that doctoral students pass specific bridging courses. In this case, it will monitor the bridging courses that are taken and establish suitable criteria to limit their duration.

The bridging courses will be on research training, but doctoral students will never be asked to enrol for a number equal to or above 60 ECTS. The academic regulations of doctoral studies state that bridging courses may also be cross-disciplinary. However, this point is likely to be amended so that bridging courses are only associated with research credits, particularly when an applicant enters the doctoral programme with a bachelor’s degree worth 300 ECTS.

Considering the doctoral student activity report (DAD), the academic committee of the programme could propose additional measure to those established in the regulations that lead to the withdrawal of doctoral students who do not meet the established criteria.

Students who have taken the master’s degree in Textiles Design and Technology, the master’s degree in Paper and Graphics Technology, the master’s degree in Textile, Paper and Graphics Engineering or the master's degree in Fibrous Material Technology Engineering (specialisations: Textile Engineering or Paper and Graphics Engineering) should not carry out bridging courses.

Students from master’s degrees in the area of engineering (industrial, chemical, forestry, materials or equivalent), master’s degrees in the area of sciences (chemistry, biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, the environment or equivalent ) and other qualifications that will be considered by the doctoral programme committee will have to take bridging courses. The committee will determine which bridging courses are required, according to the academic background of the doctoral students and the research line that they are interested in. Bridging courses will be taken during the first year of the doctoral studies.

Due to the range of academic backgrounds and the two research lines (textile engineering and paper engineering), it is difficult to specify in advance the subjects from the master’s degree in Textiles Design and Technology and the master’s degree in Paper and Graphics Technology that will need to be taken by each student. These will be defined as mentioned in the previous paragraph depending on the original qualification, the CV and the chosen research line.

Depending on their academic background, CV and selected research line, students should take between 5-30 ECTS as bridging courses. The bridging courses will be selected by the academic committee of the programme from among those indicated above.

Enrolment period for new doctoral students

Students enrolling in the doctoral programme for the first time must do so by the deadline specified in the admission decision.

More information at the registration section for new doctoral students

Enrolment period

In the first half of October.

More information at the general registration section

Monitoring and evaluation of the doctoral student

Procedure for the preparation and defense of the research plan.

Doctoral candidates must submit a research plan, which will be included in their doctoral student activity report, before the end of the first year. The plan may be improved over the course of the doctoral degree. It must be endorsed by the tutor and the supervisor, and it must include the method that is to be followed and the aims of the research.

At least one of these annual assessments will include a public presentation and defence of the research plan and work done before a committee composed of three doctoral degree holders, which will be conducted in the manner determined by each academic committee. The examination committee awards a Pass or Fail mark. A Pass mark is a prerequisite for continuing on the doctoral programme. Doctoral candidates awarded a Fail mark must submit a new research plan for assessment by the academic committee of the doctoral programme within six months.

The committee assesses the research plan every year, in addition to all of the other activities in the doctoral student activity report. Doctoral candidates who are awarded two consecutive Fail marks for the research plan will be obliged to definitely withdraw from the programme.

If they change the subject of their thesis, they must submit a new research plan.

Formation activities

Activity: Tutorial. - Hours: 288. - Type: compulsory.

Activity: Publications. - Hours: 900. - Type: compulsory.

Activity: Mobility. - Hours: 480. - Type: optional.

Activity: Assessment based on doctoral student activity report (DAD) and research plan. - Hours: 4. - Type: compulsory.

Activity: Training in information skills. - Hours: 1.5. - Type: optional.

Activity: Research methodology. - Hours: 12. - Type: optional.

Activity: Innovation and creativity. - Hours: 8. - Type: optional.

Activity: Language and communication skills. - Hours: 18. - Type: optional.

Activity: Courses and seminars. - Hours: 8. - Type: optional.

Activity: Workshops. - Hours: 8. - Type: optional.

Procedure for assignment of tutor and thesis director

The academic committee of the doctoral programme assigns a thesis supervisor to each doctoral candidate when they are admitted or enrol for the first time, taking account of the thesis supervision commitment referred to in the admission decision.

The thesis supervisor will ensure that training activities carried out by the doctoral candidate are coherent and suitable, and that the topic of the candidate’s doctoral thesis will have an impact and make a novel contribution to knowledge in the relevant field. The thesis supervisor will also guide the doctoral candidate in planning the thesis and, if necessary, tailoring it to any other projects or activities undertaken. The thesis supervisor will generally be a UPC professor or researcher who holds a doctoral degree and has documented research experience. This includes PhD-holding staff at associated schools (as determined by the Governing Council) and UPC-affiliated research institutes (in accordance with corresponding collaboration and affiliation agreements). When thesis supervisors are UPC staff members, they also act as the doctoral candidate’s tutor.

PhD holders who do not meet these criteria (as a result of their contractual relationship or the nature of the institution to which they are attached) must be approved by the UPC Doctoral School's Standing Committee in order to participate in a doctoral programme as researchers with documented research experience.

The academic committee of the doctoral programme may approve the appointment of a PhD-holding expert who is not a UPC staff member as a candidate’s thesis supervisor. In such cases, the prior authorisation of the UPC Doctoral School's Standing Committee is required. A UPC staff member who holds a doctoral degree and has documented research experience must also be proposed to act as a co-supervisor, or as the doctoral candidate’s tutor if one has not been assigned.

A thesis supervisor may step down from this role if there are justified reasons (recognised as valid by the committee) for doing so. If this occurs, the academic committee of the doctoral programme will assign the doctoral candidate a new thesis supervisor.

Provided there are justified reasons for doing so, and after hearing any relevant input from the doctoral candidate, the academic committee of the doctoral programme may assign a new thesis supervisor at any time during the period of doctoral study.

If there are academic reasons for doing so (an interdisciplinary topic, joint or international programmes, etc.) and the academic committee of the programme gives its approval, an additional thesis supervisor may be assigned. Supervisors and co-supervisors have the same responsibilities and academic recognition.

The maximum number of supervisors of a doctoral thesis is two: a supervisor and a co-supervisor.

For theses carried out under a cotutelle agreement or as part of an Industrial Doctorate, if necessary and if the agreement foresees it this maximum number of supervisors may not apply. This notwithstanding, the maximum number of supervisors belonging to the UPC is two.

More information at the PhD theses section

The maximum period of study for full-time doctoral studies is four years, counted from the date of first enrolment in the relevant programme until the date on which the doctoral thesis is deposited. The academic committee of the doctoral programme may authorise a doctoral candidate to pursue doctoral studies on a part-time basis. In this case, the maximum period of study is seven years from the date of first enrolment in the programme until the date on which the doctoral thesis is deposited. To calculate these periods, the date of deposit is considered to be the date on which the thesis is made publicly available for review.

If a doctoral candidate has not applied to deposit their thesis before the expiry of the deadlines specified in the previous section, the academic committee of the doctoral programme may, at the request of the doctoral candidate, authorise an extension of this deadline of one year under the conditions specified for the doctoral programme in question.

Learning resources

The following websites contain information on some of the equipment and laboratories available to carry out doctoral studies.

- Paper and graphics engineering: https://celbiotech.upc.edu/es/equipos-cientificos-y-laboratorios

- Textile engineering: https://cem.upc.edu/ca/ambit-enginyeria-textil/SERVEIS/laboratoris-i-tallers

https://www.upc.edu/intexter/ca/intext/laboratoris-i-serveis

Doctoral Theses

List of authorized thesis for defense.

Last update: 22/04/2024 04:45:30.

List of lodged theses

Last update: 22/04/2024 04:30:29.

List of defended theses by year

Select a year: 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

No hi ha registres per mostrar.

Last update: 22/04/2024 05:00:47.

Theses related publications

Research projects, teaching staff and research groups, research groups.

UPC groups:

• CELBIOTECH-Research Group: Paper Engineering
• ENMA-Environmental Engineering
• POLQUITEX-Polymeric Materials and Textile Chemistry
• TECTEX-Textile Technology Research Group

Doctoral Programme teachers

• Canal Arias, Josep M.
• Carrera Gallissa, Enric
• Carrillo Navarrete, Fernando
• Gutierrez Bouzan, Maria Carmen
• Lis Arias, Manuel Jose
• Lopez Grimau, Victor
• Riba Moliner, Marta
• Tornero Garcia, Jose Antonio
• Ventura Casellas, Heura
• Vidal Llucia, Teresa

The Validation, Monitoring, Modification and Accreditation Framework (VSMA Framework) for official degrees ties the quality assurance processes (validation, monitoring, modification and accreditation) carried out over the lifetime of a course to two objectives—the goal of establishing coherent links between these processes, and that of achieving greater efficiency in their management—all with the overarching aim of improving programmes.

• Verification Memory (Doctoral Programme) - 2015
• Verification Resolution (MECD)
• Agreement of the Council of Ministers (BOE)
• Monitoring report (Doctoral Programme) - 2018
• University monitoring report (Doctoral School) - 2018

Registry of Universities, Centers and Degrees (RUCT)

• Registration of the Doctoral Programme in the RUCT

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Every day, students at the Wilson College of Textiles conduct research that makes the world around us more sustainable, safer and more inclusive. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of textiles, they tackle grand challenges in a variety of ways, from marketing and management to polymer science. 

It’s this ability to conduct and apply innovative research that helps our alumni consistently land top positions in research and development (R&D) and academia around the world. 

The Wilson College of Textiles offers two doctoral programs and four master’s programs . With 235 graduate students and an active graduate student association , new graduate students immediately become a part of a close community. Classmates become friends and faculty become valuable mentors.  While our community may be small, our resources and reputation are anything but. The Textiles Complex alone boasts over 200,000 square feet of teaching, research and manufacturing spaces — including 68 unique laboratories. As a student on Centennial Campus , you’ll be surrounded by innovation in both academia and industry.

Application Timing

We strongly recommend all students apply before March 1 for fall admission.

The Graduate School provides updated information on the formal deadlines for applications for domestic and international students.

However, please be advised that many funding decisions are made during March and April. While the formal summer deadline is June 25, you are advised to apply early to be eligible for available funding.

explore our master’s programs

M.S. Textile Chemistry

Advance your skills and knowledge in polymer science, color science, dye chemistry, materials science, analytical chemistry and more in this degree program that offers thesis and non-thesis options.

Read more 

M.S. Textile Engineering

Strengthen your knowledge of engineering, materials science, physics, product development and more in this program with thesis and non-thesis options.

M.S. Textiles

This thesis degree program prepares you for management and leadership positions in the textile industry, research and development, and more. 

Master of Textiles

Launch the next stage of your career with this non-thesis master’s tailored to your goals. 

Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s

Earn both degrees in as little as five years.

Online Master’s Programs

There are options for our master’s programs no matter where you live.

explore our doctoral programs

Ph.D. Fiber and Polymer Science

The multidisciplinary Ph.D. in Fiber and Polymer Science program brings together the disciplines of mathematics, chemistry, physics and engineering for the development of the independent scholars versed in the fields of polymer, fiber and textile science.

Ph.D. Textile Technology Management

The Ph.D. in Textile Technology Management program is designed to educate students for research and management careers in textile technology management in the fiber, textile, apparel, retail and related industries complex, as well as for positions in government and academia.

Graduate Certificates

Complete as a current graduate student or as a standalone certificate program.

• The Graduate School
• Graduate Admissions
• Textile Association of Graduate Students
• Career Resources for Graduate Students
• Graduate Contact Page

Graduate news highlights

Faculty Member Uses Dyes to Research Degenerative Diseases

Nelson Vinueza, associate professor at NC State University, analyzes dyes to uncover valuable findings in health, forensics and sustainability. 

Lonny Carter ’08, ’19, ’22 Wins a 2024 Distinguished Young Alumni Award

In honor of her professional achievements, life-saving research and alignment with the college’s core values, Lonny Carter was named a recipient of the Wilson College of Textiles 2024 Distinguished Young Alumni Award. 

Ph.D. Student Büşra Özdemir Researches Respirators with The Nonwovens Institute 

Büşra Özdemir is a Ph.D. student in the fiber and polymer science program at the Wilson College of Textiles currently researching the behavior of nonwovens and the structure of respirators at The Nonwovens Institute. 

Three stories tell about York College’s efforts to build community

This is a story containing three unrelated stories about York College of Pennsylvania but with a through line about the college’s intentionality in forming relationships in York County.

The York High graduate earned degrees from York Junior College and the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science.

With those sheepskins in hand or in view, Chloé Eichelberger started as a laboratory technician for United Piece Dye Works. Fifteen years later, she was one of seven executives who offered to buy the Dye Works from its French parent and later served as vice president of the new company.

Seven years later, she purchased the dyeing and finishing plant across the Susquehanna from York County in Middletown and began Chloé Eichelberger Textiles, a major supplier of finely finished fabrics for clothing and home furnishings.

She died in December at age 89, and her obituary gave this summary of her life and times: “Chloé was considered a trailblazer, role model, and mentor for aspiring young businesswomen and men.” It also told of her many leadership connections with York College.

As a woman with York County ties heading a manufacturing company, she held a rare position among women who have climbed in industry — perhaps the top spot.

As elsewhere, women with county links heading factories or manufacturing interests are not common in York County’s past – or present.

Here’s a sampling of women founding or heading factories, manufacturing shops or support businesses:

• After their father’s death in 1861, Mary A. and Eleanor D. Wallace became sole proprietors of the Wallace Mill. They ran the southeastern York County milling operation, known today as the Wallace-Cross Mill, until 1895.
• Kay Busser rose from an assistant’s position to a high executive chair with York’s Floorola, a maker of floor waxers that transitioned to defense work in World War II.
• Katharine Beecher founded and headed the Manchester candymaker that bore her name starting in the 1930s until her death in 1952. Buttermints and other candies under the Beecher name are available today. Other women at the start of candymaking companies: Crena Fitzkee of Fitzkee Candies, 1933, and Anna Belle Anstine of Anstine Homemade Candy, 1942.
• Caroline S. Summers headed Summers Canning Co. in New Freedom from 1951 to 1967, two years past the company’s 100th anniversary.
• In 1921, Bill and Salie Utz started producing potato chips in their Hanover home. In 1930, the first part of the Utz plant was built on McAlister Street in the rear of the Utz home. Similarly, Harry and Fairy Martin produced potato chips from their kitchen in 1941, and high sales caused operations to move to a factory. Also, Eda and Edward Snyder’s fried potato chips became Snyder’s of Hanover in 1924.
• Anna E. Wege of Hanover operated a bakery from 1885 to 1917. Her descendants focused production on pretzels, and the Wege Pretzel Co. was launched.  Pauline Knaub, another baker whose name lives on, founded Knaub’s Homemade Cakes in 1942.
• Margaret Diffenbaugh headed Seven Valleys’ J.H. Stern Garment Co., an employer of 150 workers in the late 1950s.
• Jody Davidson (later Appell) became one of the leaders of York engineering firm C.S. Davidson in 1973, followed in a leadership position by Linda Davidson. Today, Kerryn Fulton is chief executive officer of the firm. 
• Sara Glines served as president of the York Newspaper Co., printer and publisher of the York Daily Record/Sunday News and The York Dispatch from 2012 to 2016.
• Cheryl Rhein was CEO of PennAir in 2010 and serves as chair today.

Although it’s not factory leadership, it is worth noting that Roxanne Gapstur has been president and CEO of WellSpan Health, York County’s largest employer, since 2019. And as we’ll see, Pamela Gunter-Smith led York College for 10 years before retiring in 2023.

Over the years, Eichelberger maintained a close association with her alma mater’s successor, York College, serving on its board and gaining the designation of trustee emerita and an honorary degree, among other distinctions.

A portrait of Chloé Eichelberger hangs in the Willman Business Center at York College.

“Institutions of higher education in part measure themselves by the distinction of their alumni,” a nearby plaque states, “and York College is grateful for its association with Chloe Eichelberger.”

Scenes from atop Yorkview

York College hosts an intriguing modern building, Willman Business Center, that is topped off with Yorkview Hall.

Five levels up, you can step outside from a large multipurpose space onto a terrace and take in an engaging view of York and its skyline, looking north. The city’s grand buildings — the York County Administrative Center’s domes and the Yorktowne Hotel’s towering flag — stand out. You can see many lesser-known structures, as well.

An idea with a donor came forth to create markers with photos and notations that would tell visitors to Yorkview what they were seeing.

The York College development office's Emily Kuhl reached out to me to identify those towers, spires and silos in the distance. The task seems easy. But to be certain — the obvious standard in such a case — involves a study of Google Maps and street-level visits. And the need to bring in two experts. Eric Lowe and Stephen H. Smith, veteran observers of all things York County, helped the project meet the test of certainty.

The signs were made and erected on Yorkview’s north-facing deck. This outdoor viewing area extends from Yorkview’s much-used event space, giving visitors an enhanced experience during breaks from meetings. Or maybe even a destination for campus visitors to seek out, a short elevator ride from ground level.

The building offers a clear view of York, and York College is building links with the city. So the signs tie in to that mission.

Name added to downtown center

The old town house at Market and Duke streets carries a long, curvy and symbolic story.

Philip A. Small of P.A. & S. Small, York County’s leading business of the 1800s and his wife, Sarah, had 10 children: six daughters and four sons. In the Civil War years, this family filled with women occupied a four-story town house constructed in 1839 at 59 E. Market St.

The Small family was pro-Lincoln. Daughter Cassandra, bragged about her brother, Sam, as a “Black Republican,” as the president and Lincoln supporters were called. And she called Lincoln’s opponents “Copperheads,” a derisive term for Peace Democrats, who would leave Southern slavery in place to avoid the Civil War.

About 1912, the Lafayette Club, with an all-white, elite men’s membership, moved into the town house, thus holding a low view toward Black Americans and women compared to the Small family who occupied the house in the 1800s.

 In 1992, the club admitted its first woman member and voted in its first Black member in 1998.

The club tried to catch up with the changing community by diversifying its membership, with marketing like this: “'It's not your father's club ... It's historic. But it's not prehistoric.”

The Lafayette Club held a fundraiser for Crispus Attucks Center, formed in 1931, in part, to provide the type of social interactions for the Black community prohibited in the club and other exclusive spaces.

By the 2010s, the need or desirability of such a private club waned. Business people could meet at coffee shops or other out-of-the-office spaces to work and cut deals.

The Lafayette Club disbanded in 2012, and York College acquired it three years later for a far different use as put forth in its name: Center for Community Engagement. A bit earlier, York College created another connection with downtown York: Marketview Arts on West Philadelphia Street. Both venues, then and today, have featured the work of diverse artists, among other community-facing initiatives.

And York College is developing at least one other strong connector with the city: Knowledge Park in the former Schmidt & Ault paper mill on Kings Mill Road. The old mill under restoration stands at the point that York College’s main campus links up with York’s downtown just south of the Penn Street bridge. So Knowledge Park is strategically situated to span partnerships among higher education, industry, and those in the community.

These projects, all designed to strengthen connections with York city, opened or developed in the 10-year tenure of recently retired Pamela Gunter-Smith. She was the first woman and the first Black person to serve as York College’s president.

So it’s fitting that new letters have been added to the façade of a building that has come to symbolize social change in York County — in the contrasting ways that the old town house’s occupants have viewed race, class and gender.

It’s signage now reads: “Gunter-Smith Center for Community Engagement.”

Sources: YDR files, York College website, various company websites, June Burk Lloyd, Stephen H. Smith.

Upcoming event

James McClure will present “A Walk Through the Park — York City's Parks, That Is” as part of the York County History Center’s Second Saturday series. He’ll provide a survey of what makes each park interesting, touching on their personality, features and history. Free and open to the public at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 13 at the York County History Center, 250 E. Market St., York.

Jim McClure is a retired editor of the York Daily Record and has authored or co-authored nine books on York County history. Reach him at [email protected] .