University Polymer Education in Thailand

The scope in Thailand of education in Polymer Science and Technology is reviewed. Five technical colleges offer a diploma in rubber science and technology. Several universities offer a bachelor degree in Polymer or Rubber Science and Technology or Engineering. Others offer degrees in Industrial Chemistry or Materials Science which emphasize polymer technology. A number of universities in Thailand are registered to offer postgraduate degree courses in polymer science/technology/engineering. Of course many universities are authorized to teach polymer science or engineering in their degree courses, or are engaged in polymer research, but do not offer degrees specific to Polymer Science and Technology. Masters degrees have been offered for several decades and now a number of doctoral programs are authorized. Instruction is mainly in reasonably equipped university Chemistry Departments, although there is some in Materials Science programs. Most lecturers have a doctoral degree from a developed country, although Thai PhD graduates are now entering employment. In the instructional process attention has to be paid to problems arising from the nature of teaching in Thai schools. Postgraduate instruction must realize the limited coverage of the first degree as well as certain cultural factors. The majority of the Polymer Bachelor graduates move into industry each year. 80% of Master graduates enter industry. Of the PhD graduates, each year 30% work in industry, about 50% become university lecturers particularly at new universities in the provinces and about 20% work in government research institutes.