How to become a food scientist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You'll usually need a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- food science
- food studies
- food technology
Employers may also accept other subjects like chemistry or nutrition.
If you have a degree in an unrelated subject, you could study a postgraduate course like food safety or food quality management.
Experience of working in a food science or food development environment, for example through an industrial placement, may improve your career prospects.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a food technologist advanced apprenticeship then move on to a food industry technical professional degree apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a food technician or lab assistant with a food manufacturer and study for further qualifications while you work.
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Further information
You can find out more about becoming a food scientist from the Institute of Food Science and Technology.