Study food science abroad

Food science is a wide-ranging subject that covers areas of science like human anatomy, microbiology, clinical nutrition and biotechnology. It applies these complex subjects to the production and processing of food, focusing on making sure what we eat is safe and of the highest possible quality.

The quality of our food is in the spotlight more than ever, and as a result, there’s a high demand for knowledgable food scientists. A food science degree will give you the skills and knowledge to help make sure that food production is high quality, safe and nutritious.

Many countries around the world offer food science programs, including the UK, US, South Africa, Canada and Australia. Industry and regulatory standards can differ depending on the country, and many programs will be accredited by the regulator of their country. This means you’ll be best placed to work in the country you study in after graduation.

Food science is available to study as a BSc over three or four years. It is often combined with another subject like nutrition or technology, which can give you a more focussed education.

If you study in the US, a bachelor’s will take four years and you will study food science as your major alongside general studies and other minor subjects.

Some universities in the UK offer an integrated master’s program (MSci) which is available to undergraduates. The course lasts four years, and you will earn a master’s qualification at the end. You can also study an independent master’s program as an MSc over one or two years. PhD food science programs are also available, and can take four or five years to complete.

Food science programs are usually taught through lectures and seminars, but you’ll also get the chance to learn practical skills in workshops and placements. Your progress will be assessed through exams, written assignments, presentations and group work but the method will differ depending on the module.

The program content you’ll study will depend on what university you attend, but here are some of the core topics most food science degrees include:

• Chemistry of food
• Physiology for nutrition
• Public health
• Food microbiology
• Food analytical techniques
• Plant science
• Food processing operations
• Food economics

As a graduate with a food science degree, you will be well placed for a range of careers in the food and nutrition industries. Some popular roles for food science graduates include:

• Food quality manager
• Food technologist
• Nutritional therapist
• Food market researcher
• Food production manager
• Journalist
• Teacher

A great way to work out what career might be right for you is to take advantage of any internship opportunities your university offers. This will allow you to experience the workplace and will improve your CV for when you’re looking for positions after university.