Have you a passion for all things food related? Are you eager to learn about the nutritional impact the things you eat have upon the body? Perhaps you are fascinated by how food itself is actually made? If so, then studying for a qualification in Food Sciences and Technology may be the perfect course for you.

The average Food Science and Technology degree is continuously assessed. From class tests and assignments to end of semester exams, most Food Science and Technology courses are often hard work and very practical in nature. Students that have a pragmatic approach to learning and who are willing to work hard will gain a lot from their studies.

For those with a qualification in food science, there are a wide range of careers available that will utilise the knowledge you acquire during your course of study. With the food industry being one of the largest within the UK, many graduates are hired within this sector in order to participate in product development or PR work specialising in food and nutrition.

However, these days there has been a significant shift in society’s attitudes towards food and nutrition. As a partial result of the obesity epidemic, many government bodies are hiring people with in-depth knowledge of food and nutrition to promote a healthy lifestyle to future generations. Many Food Science graduates opt to study post-graduate courses such as PGCE’s in order to qualify for teaching and dietician vacancies.

While many former students opt to work within the food industry, many other graduates opt to work within the hospitality, catering and leisure industries as retail buyers or quality managers. Social care is also a popular career among food science graduates.

The entry requirements for a food science and technology course will differ from university to university. However, most establishments offering a degree course will expect a minimum of 3 A-levels, or equivalent, before accepting you onto your chosen course of study. At post-graduate level, students will have a strong degree and some work experience to support their application and demonstrate passion for the subject matter.

The majority of undergraduate Food Science and Technology courses will take place over a period of 3 to 4 years depending on whether or not students opt to do a work placement between the second and third stages of the degree programme. Post-graduate qualifications will last for a minimum of a year

Although the majority of new food theory is taught within the lectures, it will be further discussed in smaller seminar and tutorial groups. The theory will then be reinforced through the use of lab work within the first two stages, and in the final year, students will be encouraged to work on individual projects of their own.

Given the broad range of career opportunities available to those studying degrees in Food Science and Technology, the networking potential of different Universities will have a significant impact upon where you ultimately decide to study. While it is imperative to have a strong degree, many recruiters look for graduates who have previous experience and connections working for prestigious companies. Universities spend years cultivating strong relationships with industry leaders, allowing their students  to not only access the top placements available in their fields, but also to hold networking events where students can use their own initiative to apply for other potential work.

It is also important that you not only examine the University, but that you take a close look at what it is you will be learning on the course. While most universities will offer the same core modules, most courses require that students take at least another two optional modules. If this is the case, take a look at which modules are available to study and whether they appeal to your interests.

Your personality will also have an impact upon where you choose to study. With all of the statistics and academic information you receive, it is easy to forget that for the next three years your choice of academic institution will dictate where you live. If you are planning on attending any university open days before you make your application, then make sure you investigate the local area to see if it is somewhere you could envisage yourself living.

You should also carefully consider the fees and the cost of living while you are studying. To help make your decision easier, work out how much financial support you will be getting while you study and which scholarships and grants you are entitled to.