University of Reading United Kingdom

BSc Food Science

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BSc Food Science at the University of Reading is your pathway to understanding and shaping the future of food production, addressing critical societal needs for safety, quality, and sustainability. This undergraduate degree is ideal for those fascinated by the complex interplay of chemistry, biology, and technology within the food industry. You will delve into the science behind what we eat, exploring nutritional biochemistry, food microbiology, and the intricate processes that transform raw ingredients into the products we consume daily. This course provides a robust foundation for a career dedicated to feeding the world responsibly.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over three years, gaining hands-on experience through practical laboratory work, sensory evaluation, and utilising pilot-scale food processing facilities. Your curriculum will cover essential areas such as food processing, quality assurance, spoilage, preservation, and the development of new food products. The syllabus includes modules like Nutritional Biochemistry, Food Microbiology, and a significant Research Project in your final year. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for diverse roles in food manufacturing, product development, quality control, and research and development within the global food sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive understanding of food science, covering nutritional biochemistry, food chemistry, and microbiology. Students will explore food system challenges, sustainable manufacturing, and practical applications in food processing and quality assurance. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics in food safety, new product development, and culminates in a research project, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the food industry.

1 Year 1

Nutritional Biochemistry and Physiology
Food and Nutritional Chemistry: A Practical Approach
Food Microbogy
Food System Challenges
Introduction to Sustainable Food Manufacturing
General Chemistry A

2 Year 2

Composition and Properties of Foods
Food Processing and Quality Assurance
Food Spoilage, Preservation and Hazards
Sensory and Consumer Science
Nutrition Research and Practice
Securing a Job: Recruitability and Employability

3 Year 3

Advanced Food Quality and Safety
Food Chemistry and Perception
New Product Development
Research Project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,429.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,429.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,429.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 124,288.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 467.00 - USD 1,787.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on London Road Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Research & DevelopmentAgricultural Services & ExtensionBeverage Production & DistributionClinical & Medical ServicesFisheries & AquacultureGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesHealth Technology & Digital HealthNutrition & DieteticsPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalPublic Health & Epidemiology

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AstraZeneca

FAO

PepsiCo

Savillis

Syngenta

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Why Study BSc Food Science at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc Food Science at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by the Institute of Food Science and Technology.

What English language score do I need for this course?

You must meet specific English language requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE with varying score thresholds.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Career opportunities include Food Scientist, Quality Assurance Manager, Product Developer, Nutritionist, and Food Safety Officer.

What will I actually study in this course?

Develop the expertise to meet society's demand for safe and sustainable food products with our accredited BSc Food Science degree.

Led by experts from the Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, this three-year course will equip you with a full understanding of food production processes.

You'll gain essential knowledge and skills in:

  • food microbiology
  • biochemistry and metabolism
  • food processing and engineering
  • product

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake for the BSc Food Science program is in September each year. Be sure to prepare your application materials ahead of time to meet this deadline.
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