Food science
Master of Science
Exploring what we eat
The food and beverage industry — the largest manufacturing industry in the United States — relies on food scientists to create new foods, improve food safety and quality, design safer and efficient food processes, and much more.
In this program, you will gain advanced technical knowledge and independent research skills to create your own food innovations. You will delve into the microbiology and chemistry of food products, study the science of sensory evaluation, and design and conduct experiments that test product quality under various processing conditions, such as high pressure and/or cold temperatures.
Much of your experience will take place in food science labs, where you may investigate foodborne pathogens, collect taste-sensory data and examine the processing and packaging of fruit, vegetable, meat, dairy and cereal products.
Overview
Related Topics
Food before it hits the marketplace
Degree fit
This degree could be a good fit if you:
- Hold an undergraduate degree in food science, microbiology or chemistry
- Want to lead research in the lab
- Are interested in developing new food innovations
- Are imaginative and creative
Sound like you? Check out the M.S. in food science degree curriculum to learn more.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
2,221 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Postsecondary Agricultural Sciences Teachers
$48,689 - Quality Control Systems Managers
$82,940 - Health Educators
$52,422 - Food Scientists and Technologists
$52,883
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that student can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on Learning
- Access to facilities and resources in two states and seven cities
- Learn at both U of I and WSU campuses and labs
- Design and conduct scientific experiments
- Mentor undergraduates in research or club activities
- Join faculty in international research projects
- Present research at professional society events and competitions
- Collaborate with the UI Food Technology Center, WSU Creamery, USDA Western Wheat Quality Lab
Clubs
- Food Science Club
- Graduate and Professional Student Association
- College Bowl Team
- Food Product Development Team
Application information
Ready to earn your food science degree? To ensure you meet the requirements for admission, review the following criteria:
- Education level: Bachelor's
- Undergraduate GPA: 3.0
- GRE: No
- TOEFL/IELTS (for international applicants): 79/6.5
- Number of references: Three
Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.