Master of Science in Food Science and Technology Overview

The Master of Science in Food Science & Technology (MSc FST) is a two-year postgraduate program designed to develop advanced knowledge in food processing, quality control, safety standards, nutrition, and product innovation. The course integrates scientific research with industrial practices to meet the growing global demand for safe, nutritious, and sustainable food.

This program equips students with strong analytical, technical, and managerial skills required to work in food manufacturing industries, research laboratories, regulatory bodies, and academic institutions. With rising awareness of food safety and health, MSc Food Science & Technology has emerged as a future-oriented and industry-relevant degree.

Table of Contents – MSc Food Science & Technology

• MSc Food Science & Technology Course Introduction
• Latest Academic Updates 2025
• Course Highlights at a Glance
• Who Should Choose MSc Food Science & Technology
• Admission Process & Eligibility Criteria
• Entrance Exams for MSc Food Science & Technology
• Types of MSc Food Science & Technology Programs
• Course Structure & Core Subjects
• Key Skills Developed During the Program
• Year-Wise MSc Food Science & Technology Syllabus
• Popular Specialisations
• Fees Structure & Scholarship Options
• Career Opportunities & Top Recruiters
• Placement Trends & Salary Expectations
• How to Select the Right College
• Higher Studies & Professional Certifications
• Frequently Asked Questions

Latest Academic Updates 2025

In 2025, universities have revised MSc Food Science & Technology curricula to align with industry requirements and global food safety regulations. Emerging areas such as functional foods, nutraceuticals, sustainable packaging, food analytics, and regulatory compliance are being emphasized.

Institutions are also adopting NEP 2020-based flexible credit systems, encouraging interdisciplinary learning with biotechnology, nutrition, and environmental science. Industry-linked internships and research projects are increasingly becoming mandatory components.

MSc Food Science & Technology Course Highlights

Who Should Pursue MSc Food Science & Technology?

This course is ideal for students who:

• Have an interest in food processing, nutrition, and quality control
• Enjoy laboratory work, research, and scientific analysis
• Aspire to work in food industries, regulatory bodies, or academia
• Plan to pursue research or PhD in food-related disciplines
• Wish to build careers in sustainable and health-focused food sectors

Admission Process & Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Biotechnology, Agriculture, Dairy Science, or related fields
• Minimum aggregate of 50–55% (varies by institution)

Admission Process

1. Online application through university portal
2. Merit evaluation or entrance examination
3. Document verification and counselling
4. Final seat confirmation

Entrance Exams for MSc Food Science & Technology

Common entrance exams include:

• ICAR AIEEA (PG)
• CUET-PG
• University-specific PG entrance tests

Some private universities also offer direct merit-based admissions.

Types of MSc Food Science & Technology Programs

• Full-Time Regular Program – Classroom learning with labs and internships
• Integrated MSc Programs – Combined UG-PG structure (select institutions)
• Research-Oriented MSc – Focused on advanced laboratory and thesis work

Course Structure & Core Subjects

The program balances theoretical concepts with hands-on practical exposure.

Core Subjects Include:

• Food Chemistry & Analysis
• Food Microbiology & Safety
• Food Processing & Preservation
• Quality Assurance & Food Laws
• Packaging Technology
• Nutrition & Functional Foods

Practical Components:

• Laboratory experiments
• Pilot plant training
• Industrial visits
• Dissertation / Internship

Key Skills Developed During the Program

• Food quality testing and safety assessment
• Research methodology and data analysis
• Regulatory compliance and documentation
• Product development and innovation
• Process optimisation and problem-solving
• Teamwork and technical communication

Year-Wise MSc Food Science & Technology Syllabus

Popular Specialisations

• Food Quality Assurance & Safety
• Food Processing & Preservation
• Nutrition & Functional Foods
• Dairy & Beverage Technology
• Food Packaging & Supply Chain

Fees Structure & Scholarships

Scholarships Available

• Merit-based university scholarships
• Government schemes (NSP, state scholarships)
• Research fellowships for high performers

Career Opportunities & Top Recruiters

Job Roles

• Food Technologist
• Quality Assurance Officer
• Food Safety Officer
• R&D Scientist
• Production Manager
• Nutrition Consultant

Top Recruiters

• Nestlé
• ITC
• Amul
• Britannia
• PepsiCo
• Patanjali
• Food testing laboratories & startups

Placement Trends & Salary Expectations

• Average placement rate: 70–90%
• Entry-level salary: ₹4–6 LPA
• Experienced professionals: ₹10 LPA+
• Higher salaries in R&D, exports, and multinational firms

How to Select the Right College

• Accreditation (NAAC / ICAR recognition)
• Laboratory infrastructure and pilot plants
• Industry tie-ups and internship support
• Faculty research background
• Placement record and alumni network

Higher Studies & Professional Certifications

After MSc Food Science & Technology, students can pursue:

• PhD in Food Science / Nutrition
• PG Diploma in Food Safety & Quality Management
• International certifications in HACCP, ISO, FSSAI
• MBA in Agribusiness or Food Management

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is MSc Food Science & Technology a good career choice?
• Does this course offer government job opportunities?
• Can I work abroad after completing this degree?
• Is research compulsory in MSc Food Science & Technology?
• What industries hire food science postgraduates?