Master of Science in Food Science

The Department offers graduate programs leading to an M.S. degree in Food Science. Students apply a fundamental understanding of biological, chemical, physical, and behavioral sciences to the processing, preservation, quality evaluation, nutrition and health aspects, and utilization of foods. Our research and education programs integrate the disciplines of chemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, processing, engineering, toxicology, sensory science, product development, animal health, biochemistry and nutrition to prepare qualified graduates for food-related careers in industry, government, and academia. The graduate programs in Food Science provide students with a deeper understanding and knowledge base of the various areas of the field and also give students the opportunity to conduct hands-on research; an essential part of this applied science.  Students learn theory in a classroom setting, and apply the knowledge gained in a laboratory setting. Students earning an M.S. in Food Science will be thoroughly prepared to begin work in any area of Food Science, including Nutritional/Food Biochemistry, Food Engineering/Processing, Food Chemistry, Food Toxicology, Food Biotechnology, Food Microbiology/Safety, Animal Health and Sensory Science.

Food Science Graduate Program

About This Program

Students apply a fundamental understanding of biological, chemical, physical, and behavioral sciences to the processing, preservation, quality evaluation, nutrition and health aspects, and utilization of foods.

Our research and education programs integrate the disciplines of chemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, processing, engineering, toxicology, sensory science, product development, animal health, biochemistry, and nutrition to prepare qualified graduates for careers in industry, government, and academia.

Students:

• Learn theory in the classroom
• Conduct hands-on research in the lab
• Gain experience in internships

Career Fields

The demand for food scientists with graduate degrees is high. Our graduates are employed in the food industry in research and development, food process development, food safety, quality assurance, analytical sciences, and managerial positions.

EMPLOYMENT

Food companies

• General Mills
• Land-O-Lakes
• Kellogg’s
• Ingredion
• Nestle
• Wayne Farms

Federal agencies

• Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)