Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

Food Process Engineering

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MSc Food Process Engineering at Heriot Watt University UK is your gateway to addressing critical challenges in the global food and drink sector, from sustainable production to innovative product development. This postgraduate degree is ideal if you hold a background in chemical engineering, process engineering, food science, or biology and wish to apply your knowledge to the specific demands of the food industry. You will explore essential concepts in food biotechnology, beverage microbiology, and food processing chemistry, preparing you for a dynamic career where scientific understanding meets industrial application.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over one year, engaging with a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. The course structure includes mandatory subjects like Future Foods Process Engineering and Food Biotechnology, culminating in an MSc Dissertation Project in the third semester. You will gain hands-on experience through laboratory work and potentially real-world projects, developing skills in areas such as process optimisation and food safety. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in food process engineering, product development, and quality assurance within the food and beverage industry.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores the principles and applications of food process engineering, covering essential topics such as future foods, process engineering fundamentals, and food and beverage toxicology. Students will delve into beverage microbiology and biochemistry, alongside food biotechnology and advanced food processing techniques. The curriculum also examines the chemistry of food and emphasizes research and professional practice, culminating in an MSc dissertation project.

1 SEMESTER ONE

Future foods Compulsory
Process engineering Compulsory
Food and beverage toxicology Compulsory
Beverage microbiology and biochemistry Compulsory

2 SEMESTER TWO

Food biotechnology Compulsory
Food processing Compulsory
Chemistry of food Compulsory
Research and professional practice Compulsory

3 SEMESTER THREE

MSc dissertation project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

11% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,504.00 USD 35,544.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 31,504.00 USD 35,544.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 503.00 - USD 2,667.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Edinburgh Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising Finance & OperationsArtificial Intelligence & Machine LearningDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringFood Processing & ManufacturingFood Safety & Quality AssuranceIndustrial & Offshore ConstructionMidstream Operations & Energy LogisticsProject & Construction ManagementQuality Assurance & ControlSpa & Wellness

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AECOM

Arup

BP Plc

Charles River Laboratories

Diageo

Mcdonalds

Wood

Why Study Food Process Engineering at Heriot Watt University UK

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Heriot Watt University UK 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 Food Process Engineering at Heriot Watt University UK

Can I work while studying?

Students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without requiring a separate work permit. Part-time students cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can take TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE exams. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 79 is needed, with specific minimum scores in each section.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Food Process Engineers, Quality Control Analysts, Production Managers, and Research Scientists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program combines chemical engineering, bioscience, and sustainability in the food and drink sector. You'll gain expertise in food processing and biotechnology while engaging in individual research projects.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSc Food Process Engineering program has its intake in September each year. Ensure you apply ahead of time to secure your place in this comprehensive course.
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