Undergraduate Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the job outlook for the food industry?
The Food Industry is relatively sheltered from economic volatility, since people always need to eat. Graduates from the B.S. program at the Department of Food Science have an excellent record of job placement with a starting salary range between $38,000-$48,000 or may continue in graduate school to obtain MS, Ph.D. or professional degrees (medical, dental, veterinary or law). There are a variety of career opportunities with an undergraduate degree in Food Science.
 

Can I continue on to graduate school with a B.S. in Food Science?
Of course! Although there are many job opportunities for graduates with a B.S. degree in Food Science, many students choose to pursue a graduate degree in order to have greater job flexibility. Graduates from our Department have continued on to obtain MS, Ph.D. or professional degrees (medical, dental, veterinary or law).

The University of Massachusetts at Amherst has a very strong graduate program in Food Science both at the masters and doctorate levels. A recent addition is the BS/MS program. This five-year program is open to qualified undergraduate students who apply before their junior year. Students in this program complete the course requirements for both degrees in four years and perform research for the MS degree over the fourth and fifth years of the program.
 

Are scholarships available for Food Science majors?
Many scholarship opportunities are available to Food Science majors. The Department of a variety of scholarships specifically for Food Science majors based upon scholarship and need. The Department scholarships total over $10,000 each year. Other scholarships are available for Food Science majors through the College of Natural Sciences . Professional organizations such as the Institute of Food Technologists and the local section of IFT ( Northeast IFT ) offer scholarship opportunities specifically for Food Science majors. Finally, financial aid is available to qualified students through UMass Financial Aid Services.
 

What courses do Food Science majors take?
The Food Science undergraduate program is built upon solid science. Food Science undergraduates take basic science core courses (chemistry, calculus, biology, microbiology, and physics) and Food Science courses. Food Science majors can tailor their degree to their interests by selecting a curriculum with a concentration in Food Science in Technology, Food, Health and Wellness or Food Safety.
 

Are there summer jobs or internships available?
Many large corporations visit our department to interview our undergraduates to fill openings for summer interns. These positions are excellent opportunities to learn about the exciting job opportunities available to our graduates. 


How do I declare Food Science as my major?

As an applying student, you can select Food Science Major during the application process.  If you are on campus, please contact Chief Undergraduate Advisor Peiyi Shen or Department Head Lili He, Rm 244 Chenoweth Laboratory, to answer your questions and walk your through the very simple change of major process.