Cornell University

Overview

The M.S. in Fiber Science and Apparel Design at Cornell University is designed to enhance research and practical applications related to fibrous materials. This program encompasses a wide range of topics, including high-performance fibers, composites, and textiles for various uses, such as biomedical and consumer applications. Students gain in-depth technical knowledge through an integrated approach of coursework and research conducted in state-of-the-art laboratories.

What you'll study

The program emphasizes a research-driven curriculum, allowing students to engage in graduate coursework and supervised research in the Field of Fiber Science and Apparel Design.

Core academic components

• Graduate coursework to deepen knowledge in fiber, polymer, and textile science, along with engineering and human-centered design topics.
• Research training under faculty guidance, covering experimental design, materials characterization, and data analysis.
• Degree requirements fulfilled through an approved plan of study, which includes necessary seminars and milestones.

Common research areas

• High-performance fibers and fiber-reinforced composites
• Green composites and sustainable materials
• Detergency and surface chemistry
• Textile dye chemistry and color/fabric performance
• Textiles for biomedical and geotechnical applications
• Polymers for electronics, including liquid-crystal polymers
• Fiber morphology and structure–property relationships
• Electrospinning and fibrous material fabrication
• Apparel and functional product evaluation (human factors and performance testing)

Facilities and hands-on learning

• Textile and polymer science laboratories for comprehensive chemical, physical, and mechanical analysis, including controlled environment testing.
• Apparel design studios equipped with industrial sewing and prototyping tools.
• Visual analysis and imaging resources for assessing material and product characteristics.
• Functional apparel testing facilities, featuring human-factors equipment such as full-body scanning.

Entry requirements

• Graduate School admission to Cornell University is required.
• GRE: Applicants must submit the GRE General Test and GRE Writing Assessment, as specified by the program.
• Recommendations: Two letters of recommendation and completed recommendation forms are necessary.
• Pre-application: M.A. and M.S. applicants must undergo the field pre-application process (request the form via email).
• Portfolio (if applying to Apparel Design): A portfolio is mandatory for applicants focusing on apparel design.

Career prospects

Graduates of the M.S. in Fiber Science and Apparel Design will find themselves equipped for a variety of career paths in sectors such as textile manufacturing, apparel design, research and development, and sustainability consulting. The skills acquired through the program prepare students for roles in innovation, quality control, and product development, contributing to advancements in material science and design.