Pushing the boundaries of food development through science is at the core of Drexel University's Master of Science in Food Science. The program offers dynamic, multidisciplinary education grounded in the latest research techniques and technological applications for those interested in applying science to meet an ever-growing demand for healthy, safe, and nutritious foods. The Master of Science (MS) in Food Science is a unique program because we are housed with Culinary Arts. Because of collaborative opportunities to work with faculty and students who are pursuing the art and taste of good food, our MSFS students work on current and novel product development for companies looking for sustainable and interesting new products. Our students gain a comprehensive overview of the food industry. The curriculum includes both theoretical and applied aspects of the science, technology, sustainability, and safety of food. Food scientists learn to integrate and apply knowledge from the disciplines of chemistry, physics, engineering, microbiology, nutrition, and culinary arts in order to preserve, process, package, and distribute foods that are safe, nutritious, enjoyable, and affordable.
The program provides a science-based professional education that encompasses classroom theory, practical research, and application. Food science is concerned with foods, ingredients, and their physicochemical and biochemical interactions at the molecular and cellular levels. Students in the food science program participate in research by completing a research project. They also have the option of designing and executing a thesis under faculty direction. Current research in food science includes:
- Food sustainability and reuse issues
- Food product development
- Food engineering
- Sensory analysis of foods
The program is designed for students who:
- Are already working within the food industry and seeking professional advancement
- Have an undergraduate degree in a general science-related area such as biology or chemistry, and would like to change fields or move into the more specialized field of food science
The MS in Food Science program offers students numerous opportunities for hands-on, real-world careers in applied science and technology. Potential employers include food product manufacturers, along with other companies providing services related to institutional feeding or supplying ingredients, processing equipment, and packaging materials. Technical and administrative positions are also available in various government agencies and with independent testing laboratories.
Food scientists are needed in the areas of:
- Food product development
- Food quality assessment and management
- Food processing and engineering
- Food product research and development
- Food sustainability and food waste reduction and practices
- Technical sales and support
- Sensory analysis

