Study a Degree
Why choose to study a degree?
A food-related degree offers the opportunity to develop a broad understanding of the science, technology and systems that underpin the food we eat. It is a multidisciplinary applied science subject area, that draws on core sciences such as chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics alongside specialist disciplines including microbiology, nutrition, business, psychology and engineering. This knowledge provides insight into the journey of food from production to consumption encompassing sustainability, food composition, and the changes food undergoes during processing, storage and digestion. It also highlights how food safety, quality and nutritional is central to all decision-making across the food and drink sector.
Studying a food degree equips students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to address contemporary challenges facing the food and drink sector, including food security, sustainability, public health, evolving consumer demands and changing policy and regulatory requirements.
Food degree programmes are typically three years in duration and may incorporate opportunities for an industrial placement year, study abroad or, in the case of an MSci programme, an addition year of advanced study and research. Courses combine subject knowledge with practical skill development through laboratory work, group projects, research and industry focused learning. Students will gain experience that be applied across a wide range of careers in industry, education, research or the public sector.
Many of the Food-related degree courses in the UK are accredited by IFST, ensuring they meet agreed professional standards providing a benchmark of quality and confirms that a course delivers strong food-related education.
How do degree courses work?
Food degree programmes are carefully designed to provide a strong foundation in the STEM disciplines that underpin the food we eat, developing core knowledge before progressing to more specialised food-focused topics such as ingredient and process interactions in food manufacturing, consumer and sensory science, nutrition, food innovation, business and management. As degree programs evolve, learning becomes increasingly applied through team-based projects and an individual research project that address real-world food related challenges.
Universities across the UK maintain strong links with the food industry (local to multinational). These connections often provide opportunities for paid industrial placements, enabling students to gain valuable professional experience. As placement opportunities are typically competitive, this allows students to develop their application and interview skills while applying the knowledge and skills gained in their first two years of study.
Students will gain experience that be applied across a wide range of careers in industry, education, research or the public sector.
