17:1

Student-to-faculty ratio

R1 Ranked

NDSU is a nationally top-ranked research university

94%

Recent graduates employed or continuing education

#1

North Dakota University with the Best Student Life

NDSU’s food science degree program is your gateway to a dynamic career in transforming raw agricultural goods into safe, sustainable and delicious food products. This multidisciplinary program blends the science of chemistry, microbiology, engineering and nutrition with practical applications in food processing, preservation and marketing. With a curriculum designed for flexibility, you can tailor your studies to focus on areas like food safety, business, nutrition or engineering, aligning with your career aspirations. You’ll graduate ready to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving food industry, securing exciting roles with major corporations, startups and government agencies.

Explore the Curriculum

Post-Graduation Career Snapshot

Explore career possibilities within the first five years after graduation with a list of high-demand occupations. Discover how you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles through examples of potential career pathways.

High Demand Occupations

  • Food Scientist
  • Dietetic Technician
  • Food Technologist
  • Food Safety Quality Assurance Technician
  • Flavorist

National Median Salary

$64,400
The median salary is based on national job listings for the above occupations that require five years experience or less.

Future Career Pathways

As you gain experience, you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles. Here are pathway occupations you might explore:
  • Chief Inspector
  • Director of Child Nutrition
  • Sensory Scientist
Data sourced from Lightcast, a leading provider of labor market analytics and workforce data. 2025.

Shape Your Future

NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.

Comprehensive Curriculum

Classes prepare you for a career in the food industry, known as the world’s largest industry. You’ll develop a strong understanding of the nature, properties and characteristics of foods through foundational courses in biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology, physics and other sciences.

Real-World Experience

Internships offered through NDSU's food science department and cooperative education programs provide opportunities for industry experience at companies such as Ardent Mills, Cargill, 8th Avenue Pasta, Hormel, Jennie-O, SunOpta and others.

Work in the Best Environment

Work in NDSU’s state-of-the-art Peltier Complex, which houses laboratories and teaching facilities where many of the food science courses are taught. Extensive facilities are available for teaching and food processing research.

Accelerated Master’s Option Available

High-achieving undergraduates can complete both their bachelor's degree and a Master of Science in Cereal Science in five years.

Accelerated Degree Info

Tuition & Costs

NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To support you in covering tuition and expenses, we provide a wide range of need-based and merit-based scholarships and financial aid options.

Admission Info

At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking a dynamic learning environment within a supportive, welcoming community.

Excited NDSU marching band members

Now is your moment to expand your horizons for a brighter future at NDSU.

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Connect with a Counselor

Discover the right path for you with guidance from your personal admission counselor. We’re here to help you explore programs, navigate the admission process and find scholarships.

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Experience what it’s like to be part of the Bison community. Tour our campus, meet with faculty, enjoy a meal in a dining center and discover why NDSU feels like home.

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