Program Overview

Food Science Program

The Food Science program at the University of California, Davis, is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to solve problems related to producing and distributing food safely across broad geographical ranges and in varying climatic conditions. Food scientists help respond to market demands by creating food products that meet modern consumers’ needs for nutrition, taste, and convenience.

Major Requirements

During the first two years of study, students concentrate on developing the scientific and general background necessary for advanced coursework by taking courses in chemistry, biology, physics, mathematics, and introductory food science. In upper-division courses, students study nutrition, microbiology, and food chemistry, analysis, and processing. Students may choose to specialize in one of seven career-oriented options:

• Food technology
• Food business and management
• Consumer food science
• Fermentation science
• Food biology/microbiology
• Food chemistry
• Food biochemistry

Careers

Graduates of the Food Science program can pursue a variety of careers, including:

• Brewmaster
• Chemist
• Food Production/Supply Chain Manager
• Food Safety Specialist
• Microbiologist
• Process Development Engineer
• Product Development Scientist
• Quality Assurance Specialist
• Sales/Purchasing Representative
• Sensory Scientist

Graduate Study

The program also offers opportunities for graduate study in areas such as:

• Chemistry
• Microbiology
• Food engineering
• Sensory evaluation
• Food and agriculture business
• Health

Alumni Employers

Graduates of the Food Science program have gone on to work for companies such as:

• Ghirardelli Chocolate Company
• Impossible Foods
• California Olive Ranch
• Anheuser-Busch InBev
• Smithfield Foods

Related Degrees

Related degrees offered by the university include:

• Nutrition Science
• Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
• Applied Chemistry

Program Features

The program offers a range of features, including:

• Internship opportunities
• A detailed course roadmap to guide students through their program
• Opportunities to work directly with faculty through research projects and labs
• Global learning programs, including study abroad opportunities
• Undergraduate research opportunities
• Resources to help students connect their major to career opportunities