Food science is the study of the transformation of biological materials into food products acceptable for human consumption. This requires studying diverse scientific disciplines related to food, including chemistry, engineering, microbiology, biochemistry, toxicology, and management; and effectively applying the industrial and practical aspects to product development, food processing, preservation, and marketing. The program is administered by the Department of Animal and Food Sciences and offers training in the basic sciences and in the fundamentals of food science.
Career opportunities in food industries include: management, research and development of new food products and ingredients, process supervision, quality control, procurement, distribution, sales, and merchandising. Positions include sales and services in allied industries; consulting and trade association activities; and promotional and educational services. Governmental agencies employ food scientists whose work is directed towards research, regulatory control, and the development of food standards.
Graduation Requirements
To earn the Bachelor of Science in Food Science, the student must complete a minimum of 120 semester hours with at least 45 hours from courses at the 300 level and above. A 2.0 gradepoint standing (on a 4.0 scale) is necessary and remedial courses may not be counted toward the total hours required for the degree.
The Food Science program meets the requirements for accreditation by the Institute of Food Technologists and the National Organization of Food Science Professionals.
Each student must complete the following:
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