Course Overview

About This Course

Get ready for a unique and exciting career designing new and better ways to feed the world with the Master of Food Science from Australia's number 1 university. You'll be equipped to work in growing industries like product research and development, food safety and regulation, nutrition assessment and quality assurance.

The Master of Food Science was developed for science or engineering graduates seeking the specialist skills and knowledge required to excel in the food industry. It combines a strong core in food chemistry, processing, sensory science, food safety and microbiology, with career-focused electives and the opportunity to conduct an original research project.

In the Master of Food Science, you will plan and execute an independent piece of research and communicate the impact of this work. You will apply your knowledge to a real research topic under the guidance of one of our world-class food science researchers, meeting regularly to discuss research planning, progress and challenges. You will learn how to conduct research, present your findings effectively and report your work in a thesis or report.

If you achieve high grades and meet other requirements, you may be eligible to progress to a Master of Philosophy or PhD in Food Science.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

Developed for science or engineering graduates seeking specialist skills and knowledge required to excel in the food industry.
Access Melbourne entry scheme is available for eligible domestic students.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Graduates will be equipped to work in growing industries like product research and development, food safety and regulation, nutrition assessment and quality assurance. As a food scientist, your work could involve: finding the best balance of ingredients to improve flavour in food formulation; discovering healthy new foods through research; investigating the effects of bioactive food components like prebiotics and antioxidants on health; helping to ensure foods are safely processed and produced; maintaining quality in food manufacturing; making foods stay safe and stable for longer.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What core subjects are covered in the Master of Food Science?

The Master of Food Science combines a strong core in food chemistry, processing, sensory science, food safety and microbiology, with career-focused electives and the opportunity to conduct an original research project.

Can I complete the Master of Food Science part time?

Yes, the Master of Food Science can be completed in 2 years full time or 4 years part time, with intakes available in both March and July.

What electives are available in the Master of Food Science?

You can broaden your knowledge and career possibilities by selecting electives in financial and project management, economics, food policy and politics, nutrition, and sustainability. You can also take the Industry Internship elective to get hands-on experience in the food industry.

Can the Master of Food Science lead to further postgraduate study?

Yes, if you achieve high grades and meet other requirements during the Master of Food Science, you may be eligible to progress to a Master of Philosophy or PhD in Food Science.

Are there shorter study options available if I am not ready to commit to the full Master's degree?

Yes, the University of Melbourne also offers a Graduate Diploma (1 year full time) and a Graduate Certificate (6 months full time). These allow you to complete some core subjects of the Master of Food Science alongside elective subjects, and you can progress on to the Master of Food Science later if you wish to.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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