This field of applied science involves studying diverse scientific disciplines such as chemistry, engineering, microbiology, biochemistry, toxicology and management as they relate to food, and effectively applying the industrial and practical aspects to product development, food processing, preservation and marketing.

Food science is a four-year curriculum offered by the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources through the Department of Plant Sciences. The program draws on the expertise of faculty members in several departments at North Dakota State University who have expertise in both teaching and research. Many have industry experience with numerous connections in the food industry.

Career Opportunities

Challenging and rewarding entry-level positions in the food industry are plentiful for food science graduates. Potential employers include large and small food corporations and government agencies. Career opportunities include positions in food science and technology, food chemistry, food microbiology, product development, quality control, food production and processing, food inspection, packaging, sales and marketing.

Food scientists study food to improve existing products or create new ones. They also analyze the structure and composition of food and the changes that occur during processing and storage. They determine how processing affects flavor, texture, appearance and nutritional value, and explore new ways to protect and stabilize food through packaging.

The food industry is the largest industry in the world. The challenges of food scientists are to provide wholesome, tasty and nutritious foods for the consumer.