Food Science and Technology

Food science and technology
Explore the art and science of food with our graduate program in Food Science and Technology. At Iowa State University, we offer a dynamic curriculum that blends rigorous scientific inquiry with practical application in food processing, safety, and innovation.
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Graduates of Food Science acquire essential skills in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, physics, engineering, nutrition, biology, mathematics, and other disciplines highly sought after in various industries and career fields.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)

Area(s) of Specialization: 

  • Functional Food and Packaging
  • Food Safety and Quality
  • Green and Sustainable Food

 

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 3.8 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.9 years (Methods)

Brenda Emery

robynath@iastate.edu
515-294-6442
Graduate Program Coordinator
Food Science and Human Nutrition
220 MacKay Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1123

Learning Goals

  • Apply scientific thinking in the analysis, synthesis and evaluation of knowledge within the discipline of food science, nutritional sciences or dietetics.
  • Apply ethical reasoning within the discipline of food science, nutritional sciences or dietetics.
  • Effectively communicate discipline-specific information in written and oral forms to scientific audiences.
  • Effectively interact within scientific teams.

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

  • Resume
  • Letter of Commitment from an FST Graduate Faculty member
  • Program Requires GRE: No
  • Program Requires GMAT: No
  • Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2025) 105

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

Graduate applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis contingent on the availability of open positions. All applicants must provide a letter of commitment from a FSHN faculty member before applying to the program.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions