Polymer education in Brazil : present situation.

Abstract

Brazilian institutions involved with polymer education have grown substantially in the last few decades, both in number and quality. This paper provides a panorama of the current situation, presenting a view of the Brazilian educational system and discussing how polymer education evolved in the country and now fits within that structure. Given the continental dimensions of Brazil, a regional analysis is presented examining some aspects of polymer teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The presence of specific courses on polymer science in the syllabi of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Engineering programs delivered by Brazilian institutions is considered. The importance of funding agencies in sponsoring polymer education and research at postgraduate level and the crucial role of the Brazilian Polymer Associtation (ABPol) in promoting all aspects of polymer education in Brazil are highlighted.