Food Science

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The MSc in Food Science provides advanced study opportunities that build on your previous experience in an appropriate first-degree course. This MSc enables you to upgrade existing qualifications and gain knowledge and skills. It will help you become an independent researcher who can critically evaluate the science and apply to new situations.

The course team has particular expertise in food analysis, sensory analysis, food microbiology related to food safety, spoilage and fermentations, and product development and quality control. This expertise is reflected in the range of modules offered in the MSc.

The main subjects are food analysis, sensory analysis food microbiology and food biotechnology. The University opened a new science centre in 2006 that provides excellent analytical facilities for study and research.

Staff from the Microbiology Research Unit support the course and also provide some research topics for your dissertation. Other research projects are available in food analysis, sensory analysis and food rheology. The course leader is very active in the main professional body for food science, the Institute of Food Science and Technology. Staff are regularly involved with the food industry, providing advice and training.

Career opportunities
Recruitment prospects in the food industry are buoyant. The industry is the UK's largest manufacturing sector and there is a demand in the UK and elsewhere for qualified professionals in this field.

Course Structure
The full-time course consists of 30 weeks of taught modules across two 15-week semesters commencing in either September or February, with part-time study following a similar pattern over two years.

You may take (subject to approval) the Industry Placement module to gain experience of the UK food industry. As a full-time student you will take three taught core modules and three optional taught modules. It is expected that the part-time format may be particularly attractive to employees wishing to extend their knowledge to a higher level by taking the whole course or selected modules.

You may take the Industry Placement module (subject to approval) to gain experience of the UK food industry. A placement is not guaranteed but we will aim to help you find one.

Core modules:

* Advanced Food Analysis
* Food Microbiology and Safety
* Scientific Frameworks for Research

Optional modules:

* Advanced Food Processing
* Advanced Sensory Analysis
* Food Biotechnology
* The Food Production Environment
* Industrial Placement

To qualify for the MSc award you will need to carry out a Research Project during the summer period and then submit a 15,000-20,000 word dissertation.

Students from industry taking the course on a part-time basis may be able to complete their dissertation at their place of employment, subject to satisfactory tutoring and supervision arrangements.

The normal academic standard for entry is a Lower Second (2.2) UK first degree in food science or a related subject such as microbiology, biochemistry, nutrition or agricultural sciences. Equivalent overseas qualifications will also be accepted.Proficiency in the English Language is essential. If English is not your first language, you will require an IELTS 6, TOEFL 580, CBT TOEFL 237 or equivalent. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6 TOEFL paper-based test score : 580 IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.