Food Science and Engineering

Modern food processing is concerned with the transformation of plant-based and animal-based raw materials into value-added, safe and stable food or nutrient formulas. The Master's programme in Food Science and Engineering is research-oriented and focuses on the interface between complex food matrices and technical processes in the development and production of food.

In this programme, students acquire expertise regarding the equipment and processes involved in the processing of food, combined with a thorough understanding of the biogenesis of raw materials and their microbiological ecology. They learn to develop appropriate food formulas and processing techniques that allow for product-specific processing conditions in automated production processes using in-line sensor technology. The core of the programme consists of the development of new technologies for the production of food products that meet both consumer expectations and individual nutritional requirements, i.e., the transfer of basic research concepts into new technological approaches.

Educational organisation

The programme in Food Science and Engineering has a modular structure, with each module encompassing at least one, but usually several, interconnected courses. These include lectures, exercises, seminars, and practical courses in the laboratory.

In the first semester of the programme, the focus lies on connecting soft matter science approaches with microbiological knowledge and engineering methods needed to understand all aspects of the processing of the complex food matrix. You analyse treatment processes for food and explore new technology with which functional compounds from plant-based or animal-based raw materials may be efficiently gained, enzymatically modified, or stabilised through encapsulation. At the same time, you learn scientific approaches, including modern chemical, physical, molecular, and statistical methods, as well as methods for modelling and simulating unit operations, processes, and reactions. During practical courses you put your acquired skills to practice, whilst exploring food processing in natural scientific, engineering, and economic contexts during seminars.

Starting in the second semester, you are free to plan your studies according to your individual interests and preferred areas of specialisation. You do so by choosing from a wide range of elective modules, such as:

• Bioethanol and Distilled Spirits
• Dairy Science and Technology
• Downstream Processing
• Drying, Granulation, and Instantisation
• Advanced Meat Science and Technology
• Fermentation Technology
• Enzyme Technology

The selection of elective modules on offer allows you to develop your scientific qualifications to include areas of the field not covered within the scope of the compulsory modules. You may also take modules in other areas of the life sciences, such as the nutritional sciences. In addition to subject-specific modules, you may complete modules offered in other Master's programmes in the natural sciences at the University of Hohenheim or at other universities, both in Germany and abroad.

The second year allows you to plan your studies freely according to your individual interests and preferred areas of specialisation. Knowledge and practical skills acquired in the first year are expanded by further specialising in selected areas of the field, such as the interaction between ingredients in the complex food matrix. The emphasis on conducting research increases. Project work modules give you the opportunity to apply your acquired skills within the context of a scientific project by independently planning and executing scientific research projects, with a supervisor providing guidance as needed.

The open structure of the second year also provides you with a perfect opportunity to study abroad or undertake a prolonged internship at national or international research facilities or in the life science industry. The last semester of the programme is reserved for the writing of a research-intensive Master's thesis.

Internships

Students have the opportunity to complete an internship lasting a minimum of six weeks, in the context of an elective module. This internship may be integrated flexibly into the course of studies.

Forms of assessment

There are written and oral exams. In addition, most practical courses require students to write a report. A few modules demand a term paper.

Course objectives

Modern foodstuffs are designed to have a particular flavour, conform to a specific manner of consumption or approach to life, help balance nutritional deficits or appeal to a specific group of consumers, and are increasingly produced from organic raw materials. Imparting natural scientific and engineering knowledge, as well as analytical methods, is a key aspect of this programme. You are prepared for dealing with issues regarding food processing in a goal-oriented manner. These skills are practised and developed intensely through practical courses, seminars, and project work modules, which give you the opportunity to work independently on a research project. In this way, you learn how to independently organise, execute, present, and publish basic as well as application-oriented research. The programme is completed by submitting a Master's thesis, which is integrated into ongoing research projects at the Institute of Food Biotechnology. During this process, you learn to conduct scientific research independently and as part of a team.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of good English language skills. Proof of language proficiency can be presented by obtaining one of the following accepted certificates:

• Internet-based TOEFL test with a minimum of 90 out of 120 points
• IELTS certificate with a minimum of 6.5 out of 9 points
• UNIcert II certificate with a minimum grade of "good"

Applicants can be exempted from producing proof of language proficiency if they declare English to be their mother tongue and are citizens of one of the following countries: the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States of America, Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Belize, Guyana OR have completed a Bachelor's or Master's programme with English as the language of instruction at a university in a country listed above or in a member state of the European Union.

Applicants also have to provide proof of basic German language skills. Proof of language proficiency can be presented by obtaining one of the following accepted certificates:

• UNIcert I certificate with a minimum grade of "good" ("gut")
• the Goethe-Zertifikat B1: Zertifikat Deutsch of the Goethe Institut
• the Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz, level DSD 1
• the Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (Test DaF) with a minimum score of 3 in all 4 examinations
• the examination certificate of the DSH I (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang, German Language Examination for University Admission)

Applicants can be exempted from producing proof of language proficiency if they declare German to be their mother tongue or have a German higher education entrance qualification (e.g. Abitur).

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

1. A Bachelor's or equivalent degree completed at a domestic or foreign university that meets the following criteria:

• programme lasted a minimum of three years and awarded a minimum of 180 ECTS credits
• programme with a profile in the natural sciences or engineering

2. Documented proof of good English language skills:
Minimum level required is B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

3. Documented proof of basic German language skills:
Minimum level required is B1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

Enrolment fees

160 EUR per semester

Costs of living

Approx. 700 EUR per month to cover personal expenses, including rent

Arrival support

The Office of International Affairs organises Orientation Days for all incoming international students. They offer informational as well as recreational events and provide you with information on how to best get settled in Hohenheim.

The International Student Organisation runs a buddy programme, which provides international students with a buddy, if so desired. The buddy helps with all formalities concerning the university and government agencies. In addition, the buddy is the contact person for all questions about life in Germany and at the university.

Services and support for international students

The International Student Organisation (ISO) offers a buddy programme as well as an extensive recreational programme.

Accommodation

Hohenheim owns several dormitories within walking distance of university buildings. All rooms have internet access and a phone. Communal facilities include washing machines, tumble dryers, and common and party rooms. Rent for single rooms ranges from 210-400 EUR.

Private accommodation is available starting at approx. 300 EUR per month. The Office of International Affairs offers assistance when looking for private accommodation. More information can be found at www.uni-hohenheim.de/wohnraummentoring.