Lee-Ann Jaykus at seafood market

Graduate Food Science

Self-Designed to Meet Your Career Goals

Our program attracts students from a variety of academic backgrounds, including those with degrees in agricultural science, biochemistry, and engineering. We offer a non-thesis and a thesis degree option. Admission to either degree option is limited by faculty time commitments and financial resources.

Our faculty and staff are strategically aligned with the following areas:

  • Food manufacturing and entrepreneurship
  • Food safety and foodborne disease prevention
  • Foods for health and well being
  • Instructional innovation and effectiveness

Questions?

Contact, Dr. Jon Allen, the Director of Graduate Programs for Food Science.

Student Spotlight

Juan Ascenio jumpstarted his career by winning five gold medals, a silver and a bronze at the German Butchers’ Association and the American Association of Meat Processors’ Quality Competition for Sausage and Ham.

Read more about Juan's accomplishments

Master of Food Science

This 36 credit hour, non-thesis option provides graduates with the skills to communicate core product and quality concepts in an industry setting. The curriculum emphasizes food product development and food safety. It also develops an understanding of business structure, as well as organizational, teamwork, and communication skills.

M.S. in Food Science

General knowledge of food science and related disciplines allows graduates to conduct, analyze, and communicate research in academic or industry settings. Courses include chemistry, engineering, microbiology, processing, nutrition, and sensory analysis.

View Curriculum

Future Career Pathways

A graduate degree in Food Science can prepare you for a career in:

  • Flavorings/food textures
  • Food product development/modification
  • Microbial analysis/genetic transformation
  • Sensory science
  • Food auditing
  • Food safety compliance/planning
  • Nutritional quality/labeling
  • Teaching/research/extension
  • Food processing/engineering
  • Government regulatory processes
  • Quality assurance/quality control

Food Science Student Resources

Food Science Club

A student group interested in the food science discipline that provides networking opportunities with industry professionals.

Learn more

Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)

A global community of industry professionals who advance the business and science of food. The Dogwood Section connects members across North Carolina.

Learn more

Phi Tau Sigma

A network of accomplished mentors that honor and elevate the achievements of students and professionals in food science and technology.

Learn more

Ready to Take the Next Step?

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