Food Science
Ever wondered what goes into making food safe, nutritious, and enjoyable? The Food Science concentration applies chemistry, biology, and engineering to explore how food is developed, processed, and improved for safety, quality, and nutrition. Students gain hands-on scientific experience that prepares them for careers in food science, safety, research, and development. The Food Science concentration is offered within the Biochemistry major.
Occupational Outlook Handbook:The median annual wage for agricultural and food scientists was $78,770 in May 2024. Overall employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. Employment of food scientists is projected to grow as research into agricultural production methods and techniques continues.
Curriculum
What classes will I take with a biochemistry major, food science concentration?
View the curriculumCareers
What types of jobs could I get with a biochemistry degree, public policy concentration?
This degree program focuses on training students to either go to graduate school in food science or related areas or work in one of the following career paths:
- Food Scientist
- Product Development Scientist
- Research Scientist
- Flavor Scientist
- Process Development Scientist
- Production Supervisor
- Food Safety Specialist
- Quality Assurance Specialist
- Sensory Scientist
Food Science Minor
What can I do with a Food Science Minor?
A minor in food science is available. Students complete 18 hours of courses in Applied Food Chemistry, Composition and Chemical Reactions of Foods, Microbiology of Foods, Food Preservation Technology, plus other courses from which students can choose.
Meat Science Endorsement
Interested in Meat Science?
The Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition and Health Promotion and the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences offer a Meat Science Endorsement for students who wish to specialize in the meat processing industry. The 24 credit hour curriculum equips students to be career-ready professionals with a comprehensive understanding of the industry and a skill-set designed for them to make an immediate impact in meat science government, academic, or industry positions upon graduation. More information
Transfer Guide
Can I transfer to Mississippi State?
Students may transfer to Mississippi State University from regionally accredited community, junior or senior colleges for any period of enrollment, provided they have earned a 2.0 GPA (as computed by Mississippi State University) on all college courses attempted as well as earned a 2.0 GPA on the 30-hours of core courses. Transfer students should look at the transfer course equivalent guide to determine which courses will transfer.
Internships
Are there any internship opportunities?
Internships and/or professional experience prepares students for future careers in Food Science. A significant percentage of employers prefer students with work experience outside of a college environment to students with no experience, according to new data released by the Chronicle of Higher Education. Students should check with the MSU Career Center or the program coordinator for internship opportunities.
Scholarships
How do I apply for scholarships?
Students may apply for university, college and departmental scholarships through one application. You can find the scholarship application once you login to myState. Under the banner tab, select Financial Aid and Scholarships. The application is listed as Submit/Revise General Scholarship Application.
Organizations
How can I get involved?
The Department of Biochemistry, Nutrition and Health Promotion encourages its students to take advantage of the many experiences offered by the departmental student organizations and teams. Clubs are a great way to develop leadership skills and to learn about the various food industries. Learn more about organizations in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.