Study Consumer Food Science at Otago

Why study Consumer Food Science?

Consumer Food Science gives you the opportunity to work with food and people. You’ll study how people make food choices, bringing together elements from many different subjects.

You can make a contribution to the fast moving and dynamic food industry and will gain an understanding of the marketing that helps to sell a product.

Career opportunities

Consumer Food Science encompasses many different subjects and applications, and that’s reflected in the breadth of job opportunities. Our graduates frequently find employment before they have even completed their final year at university. You could end up working for a national or international food company specialising in dairy, confectionery, brewing, fruit and vegetables, seafood or any other foodstuff.

Graduates go into research institutes, for example, Plant and Food Research, or government agencies such as the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). There are exciting career options in food quality management, food promotion, sensory analysis, teaching, marketing, consumer research and the hospitality industry.

Background required

High School students are recommended to take Biology, Maths and English in Year 12 and preferably in Year 13.

Consumer Food Science versus Food Science

Consumer Food Science is more “people” based, whereas Food Science is more “product” oriented.

A consumer food scientist understands how consumers perceive foods (sensory science), how consumers make food choices, how food regulations affect manufacturers and consumers, and how food quality can be managed. Alternatively, if you enjoy science subjects like chemistry and biology, then Food Science is probably a better choice.

Can I combine Consumer Food Science with other subjects?

A minor or a second major is compulsory for your BAppSc degree. Popular choices for combining with Consumer Food Science are Marketing, Management, Entrepreneurship, Nutrition Communication and Agricultural Innovation. There is also room for extra papers to explore your wider interests.

What will I learn?

The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) in Consumer Food Science provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the food industry, combining both theory and practical hands-on experience.

Year 1

A paper called Food Principles gives you a broad understanding of food and food production. Food marketing and statistics papers are part of the first year course.

You will also take the first year papers for your chosen minor or second major. You may have room for other papers such as biology, chemistry, psychology, history, anthropology or sociology.

Year 2

In this year you will take core papers covering food chemistry, food systems and sensory science.

You will also choose papers towards your minor subject, for example Marketing, Management or Nutrition Communication. You may be able to add extras according to your interests.

Year 3

At this stage, you will take an industry sponsored full-year, hands-on food product development paper, as well as papers in advanced sensory science and advanced aspects of consumer food choice.

You will also complete the third year paper(s) towards your minor or second major.

There are course advisers within the Department who can help you plan your study path.

How will I study?

Classes consist of lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical laboratories, self-directed learning using readings and website material, and field trips to food manufacturers and research organisations. Assessment is through a combination of assignments/ projects, examinations, laboratory reports, essays and oral presentations.

You will have the opportunity to work in groups on a large project that includes interaction with the food industry – a most valuable experience.

Do I need to take Chemistry for Consumer Food Science?

No.

But it is useful to have taken a course in chemistry at school. Any chemistry you need to have a better understanding of food, will be taught as part of the degree.

Can I teach in the school system with a degree in Consumer Food Science?

Yes.

Studying Consumer Food Science enables you to teach food and technology in the school system, both at primary and secondary level.

Can I include some nutrition study in the Consumer Food Science degree?

Yes.

You can take a general nutrition paper in your second year and one paper at third year level, or add a minor in Nutrition Communication.

In order to complete a major or minor in Human Nutrition, you need to take chemistry, biochemistry and biology in the first year.

Qualifications

Explore your study options further. Refer to enrolment information found on the following qualification pages.

• Bachelor of Applied Science* (BAppSc)
• Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc)
• Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc)
• Bachelor of Applied Science with Honours (BAppSc(Hons))
• Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad)
• Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Science (PGCertAppSc)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science (PGDipAppSc)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci)
• Master of Applied Science (MAppSc)
• Master of Science (MSc)

*It is a requirement that every Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) normally includes an approved minor subject or an approved second major subject. Usually such a minor or second major subject must be selected from the approved combinations of major subjects with minor or second major subjects. Some exceptions may apply. For details see:

Full list of available approved minor and second major subject areas

You may also be interested in

• Food Science

Key information for future students

• Domestic students
• International students

Contact us

Department of Food Science
Web otago.ac.nz/foodscience

This information must be read subject to the statement on our Copyright & Disclaimer page.

Regulations on this page are taken from the 2023 Calendar and supplementary material.