Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the art and science of food with our graduate program in Food Science and Technology. At Iowa State University, we offer a dynamic curriculum that blends rigorous scientific inquiry with practical application in food processing, safety, and innovation.
Graduates of Food Science acquire essential skills in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, physics, engineering, nutrition, biology, mathematics, and other disciplines highly sought after in various industries and career fields.
Degrees Offered:
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Master of Science (M.S.)
Area(s) of Specialization:
- Functional Food and Packaging
- Food Safety and Quality
- Green and Sustainable Food
How long does it take to earn a degree?
- Median time to earn the doctorate: 3.8 years (Methods)
- Median time to earn the master’s: 1.9 years (Methods)
Learning Goals
- Apply scientific thinking in the analysis, synthesis and evaluation of knowledge within the discipline of food science, nutritional sciences or dietetics.
- Apply ethical reasoning within the discipline of food science, nutritional sciences or dietetics.
- Effectively communicate discipline-specific information in written and oral forms to scientific audiences.
- Effectively interact within scientific teams.
515-294-6442
Brenda Emery
robynath@iastate.edu
Graduate Program Coordinator
Food Science and Human Nutrition
220 MacKay Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1123
Program Homepage
Program Handbook
Application Requirements
Application Deadlines:
Graduate applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis contingent on the availability of open positions. All applicants must provide a letter of commitment from a FSHN faculty member before applying to the program.
Application Details:
This program is open to domestic and international students.
Application Instructions
Admission Requirements
Graduate College Requirements:
- 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Academic Records/Transcripts
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
- Proof of English Proficiency.
Program Specific Requirements:
- Resume
- Letter of Commitment from an FST Graduate Faculty member
- Program Requires GRE: No
- Program Requires GMAT: No
- Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No
International Requirements:
- Financial Statement: Application
- English Proficiency Minimum:
| TOEFL Paper (PBT) |
550 |
| TOEFL Internet (iBT) |
79 |
| IELTS |
6.5 |
| PTE |
53 |
| Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) |
115 |
Program Virtual Tour
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
jotalber@iastate.edu
