What kind of careers
do Food Scientists have?
What do Food Science alumni say
about their career choice?
What will it cost to study at WSU?
Where in the world is WSU?
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WSU's main campus is located in Pullman, WA, known as the Palouse country of southeast Washington, where much of the nation's finest wheat and legumes are produced. Several small but expanding high-tech firms diversify Pullman's economy. The 600-acre campus features modern classrooms and laboratories, libraries, museums, student residences, recreational and athletic facilities, student union and community hospital. Click here to take a virtual tour of WSU. |
| Students are enjoying the newly completed 'Student Recreation Center' (SRC), which is the largest west of the Mississippi. | |
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Food Science |
...the nature of foods |
Food science majors develop an understanding of the properties and characteristics of foods through courses in biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology, physics, and more. Food technology courses build on this foundation and apply it to the study of processing, preservation, sanitation, storage, and marketing of foods.
Food science is the real-life application of chemistry, microbiology, and other basic and applied sciences to the production, processing, preservation, evaluation, and distribution of food. The many facets of skills learned as part of this Bachelor of Science degree help the food scientist convert harvested materials into high quality food products that are safe and nutritious. Food scientists are concerned with high standards of quality and safety, new methods of manufacture and preservation, new products, and new packaging materials/methods.
Offered at WSU: Bachelor of science in food science, minor, master of science, doctorate degree
Offered at the University of Idaho: undergraduate & graduate degrees
What kinds of careers do Food Scientists have?
The ever-expanding field of food science encompasses a wide range of careers in food-related work, the nation's largest occupational sector.
An undergraduate food science degree prepares students for successful careers with a food industry, research, or manufacturing company in the public, corporate, or government sector. Food science graduates are leaders in food production and processing, quality assurance and control, technical representation in the sale and marketing of foods, food product development, food science research, and regulation and enforcement of food laws. The need for trained food scientists has grown steadily in pace with consumer demands for convenient, safe, and nutritious food and beverages.
At Washington State University, the School of Food Science is recognized for excellence in both undergraduate and graduate education for individuals interested in these fields. You can work side by side with faculty who care about your success and academic experience.
Our goal within the school is to equip the student with the skills necessary to make their dream career a reality. Courses deal with the broad range of interests and concerns which center around the processing, manufacture, safety and distribution of food, and the preparation and serving of food.
Students completing degrees in any of the degrees offered in the School of Food Science are highly sought after by employers.
Top 10 Hottest Careers in Agriculture
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Agriculture and Food Scientists
What do Food Science alumni say about their career choice?


"I am glad that I majored in food science because I have been able to help ensure that my company produces safe items that everyone will feel confident to eat." - Megan Leifson, Technical Services Manager, Stone Mill Foods; Kent, WA
"I have often realized that I made a great career choice! The collaboration of technical, marketing, and sales people provide a very intriguing work environment." - Patrick Lathrop, Group Leader Research & Development, Bunge Foods; Seattle, WA
"Choosing a career in food science was easy for me; I love my job and enjoy seeing the results of my efforts in the retail market." - Craig H. Doan, Food Technologist, Heinz Frozen Food Company, Ore-Ida; Ontario, OR
"If you enjoy overcoming challenges using knowledge, creativity, and ingenuity, then you may find a career in food product development is for you! I've always beeen struck by the pride and joy I feel when I see people using and enjoying products I have helped to create." - Barrie Froseth, Development Leader, General Mills, Inc.; Minneapolis, MN
How do I apply?
The application process involves two steps:
Step 1 |
Applying online to the Graduate School by supplying official transcripts, GRE (general) score, TOEFL score (if applicable), letter of interest stating your academic interest, resume, three names and contact information for letters of reference, and fees by the deadline dates (for Fall - January 10, for Spring - July 1). All materials must be complete before Step 2 can begin. |
Step 2 |
We will copy your application and all materials from the Graduate School to begin processing it for evaluation. |
What will it cost to study at WSU?
Click here for more details.
How can I find a place to live?
Click here for Information to assist in acclimating to WSU and the City of Pullman.
Pullman Chamber of Commerce On-campus housing information
Where do I find Transfer Student information?
We know that transferring to another college or university can be confusing, that's why we're here to help. Please visit here.
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