Person in a lab coat using a microscope at a workstation, with laboratory bottles and scientific posters in the background.

Master commercial food production

Our Institute of Food Technologists-approved program focuses on the commercial-scale production and processing of food.

If you’re interested in studying the process of food from the time it leaves the farm until consumers buy the food products, then the food science major may be your perfect fit. Food scientists apply basic science (chemistry, biology, physics) to improve food quality, safety, and nutrition and to develop new food products.

The food science program is approved by the Institute of Food Technologists, and students take courses focused on food chemistry, food microbiology, food quality assurance, sensory evaluation of food, and food product development. Graduates have secured positions in the food industry, sales and marketing, food processing, biotechnology, government, and research.

Academic Information

Concurrent Program

Students have the opportunity to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) concurrently with the Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in food science. The program is designed so students can earn the BS in food science and MBA in five years, to meet the needs of students who are interested in management careers in the food industry. Students apply for admission to the MBA program in the spring of the third year. The program for concurrent BS in food science/MBA degrees is a rigorous 5-year program, and admission is very selective.


Read more about this concurrent program ยป

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Careers and Internships

Food scientists work in food industry, academia, and non-profit and government institutions. A food science degree can lead to many positions, including:

  • Food Analytics and Testing
  • Food Chemist/Flavorist
  • Food Microbiologist
  • Food Production/Operations 
  • Product Development Scientist
  • Quality Assurance Supervisor
  • Regulatory/Food Safety Manager
  • Research & Development Scientist
  • Sensory Food Technologist

For more information about careers in food science, view the following websites of the Institute of Food Technologists:

Become a Food Scientist

Institute of Food Technologists Career Center

Career Services
Prepare for your next job or internship with Career Services, where staff help you with job searches, interview preparation, and resume/cover letter review. As a student in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences or the College of Health and Human Sciences, use the career services offices associated with your college.

To apply for internships and full-time positions, use CyHire, on-campus career fairs, and the college career services offices.

Study abroad opportunities

Studying abroad is an opportunity to broaden your educational perspectives and personal view of the world. International opportunities are available through the College of Health and Human Sciences International Programs office.

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