University Of Otago Food Science

Food production and quality is becoming increasingly important globally.



Consumers want foods that are new and exciting, while also being nutritious, safe, tasty, convenient and produced in an environmentally responsible manner. Food companies need to cost-effectively produce foods that meet increasingly diverse market needs. Regulatory agencies insist foods conform to legislation around composition and safety.

The challenge for the food scientist is to blend biology, chemistry, consumer research and nutrition to solve the problems of developing a safe, healthy, and nutritious food supply for people everywhere.

Ready to enrol?

Choose a qualification

Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc), Dunedin, 2021

Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc), Dunedin, 2021

Bachelor of Science (BSc), Dunedin, 2021

Bachelor of Science with Honours (BSc(Hons)), Dunedin, 2021

Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad), Dunedin, 2021

Master of Science (MSc), Dunedin, 2020

Master of Science (MSc), Dunedin, 2021

Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci), Dunedin, 2021

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You must choose a qualification to enrol, but you can easily change it later.

Why study Food Science?

Food Science is a portable degree. You can find Food Science jobs all over the world.

You can use both creative and technical skills in developing new food products.

Food Science is a very practical application of basic science (Chemistry, Microbiology, Biology) training with a product, consumer and market focus. There’s a mix of scientific research, practical application and consumer interaction required to get the job done.

Career opportunities

As a Food Science graduate, you will have good prospects here in New Zealand and also exciting opportunities overseas. Our graduates frequently find employment before they have even completed their final year at university.

You could end up working for a national or international food company specialising in dairy, confectionery, brewing, fruit and vegetables, seafood or any other foodstuff.

There are also positions for Food Science graduates in research institutes, for example Plant & Food Research, or government agencies such as the Ministry for Primary Industries.

Careers in areas such as product development, food quality management, chemical / nutritional analysis, sensory analysis, marketing and research will be at your fingertips.



Background required

High School students are recommended to take Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics in Year 12 and 13.

Qualifications

Explore your study options further. Refer to enrolment information found on the following qualification pages.

Food science: where science makes food



Food scientists use chemistry, biology, physics, microbiology, psychology and consumer research to make food that is appealing, healthy, sustainable and safe.

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Research

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