Students study nutrient functions and requirements, metabolism, food quality and safety, the composition and chemical properties of foods, and changes in foods caused by processing, storage and preparation. Besides studying nutrition, food science, biology and microbiology, majors must take physics and complete extensive coursework in organic and analytical chemistry.

The  major at Florida State University has a strong science base that prepares students for job opportunities in the food industry, government agencies, careers in the medical field, and graduate study in the field.

The undergraduate student is usually preparing for an advanced degree with specialization in Food Science or Nutrition and a career in university teaching and/or research, medicine, the food industry, or government. With proper advising, this program can also serve as a pre-medical curriculum.