Food Science
Food science deals with the nutrition, preservation and development of chemical additives in food. Degree programs are available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Continue reading to learn about career opportunities in the field and their academic requirements to determine if food science is a good fit for you.
Inside Food Science
Food science combines engineering, science and math to deal with processing, preserving and storing food. Food scientists examine the ingredients and properties in food so it's properly preserved, processed, packaged, distributed and stored. They consider ways to improve food products and create new processing and storing techniques.
Through associate's degree programs in food science, participants study food sanitation, food processing, quality assurance, nutrition and the basics of food science. At the bachelor's degree level, learners take general science courses, such as chemistry and biology, in addition to food science classes, such as food microbiology, food engineering, food safety, toxicology and food chemistry. Master's and doctoral programs in food science incorporate labs and advanced studies in food preservation, food safety, food processing methods, food microbiology and food chemistry analysis. Advanced degree programs are research intensive and culminate in a thesis or dissertation.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), food science technicians must have at least an associate's degree (www.bls.gov). For a career in food processing and farming, a bachelor's degree is typically necessary. To conduct research, teach food science or become a food scientist, applicants must have a graduate degree. A graduate degree can also lead to a career overseeing food safety issues or developing new products or processes.
The BLS projected that, between 2008 and 2018, employment would increase by 16% for food scientists and technologists and by nine percent for food science technicians. As of May 2010, the median annual salary for food science technicians was $32,760, and for food scientists and technologists it was $60,180. Food scientists can find positions with the federal government, educational institutions, food development companies, distribution companies and food manufacturing companies.
Learn More about Food Science
In the field of food science, career opportunities vary depending on the degree levels you pursue. Whether you want to become a food scientist, a university professor or a food science technician, Education-Portal.com has information to help you make solid academic and career decisions.
Degree Options
Read about some of the undergraduate and graduate certificate and degree programs available in food science. You can also learn about some of the topics covered in the degree programs.
- Certificates and Degree Programs in Food Science
- Training and Certification for Food Scientists
- Graduate Degree Programs in Food Science
Career Options
With training in food science, many career opportunities are available. Continue reading to learn about possible careers, including the academic requirements and employment information.
- Food Safety and Quality Manager
- Food Science Technician
- Food Manufacturer
- Food Technologist
- Food Scientist
Online Degree Options
The following pages include information about online and distance learning degree programs in food science and related fields. For additional options, explore Education-Portal.com.
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