Overview

Your impact starts here.

The Master of Food Science prepares you for a varied and exciting career across the global food sector. Strong industry connections along with broad core studies will equip you for roles in product development, regulatory compliance, nutritional assessment, quality management, and more. Graduates also pursue pathways in higher study, entering academia or advanced research roles all over the world.

Key career outcomes

• Research and development. Create new and innovative food products, using insights to address consumer needs and preferences.
• Safety and regulation. Ensure that food products are high-quality, safe, healthy and unspoiled when they reach consumers.
• Advice and assessment. Use your advanced knowledge of nutrition to analyse, assess, and communicate the nutritional content and benefits of various food products.

Where can a Master of Food Science take you?

You will graduate from the Master of Food Science with advanced skills in food safety, product innovation, quality systems, and nutritional science. These skills are in high demand across the food and pharmaceutical sector, and can lead to roles like food safety officers, product developers, quality managers, nutritional assessors, regulatory advisors, and research scientists across industry, government and academia.

Our graduates have found roles with organisations such as: the Product Makers, Bega Cheese, Mondelēz Australia, SPC Global, Mars Wrigley Australia, Kraft Heinz, McCain Foods, Yakult Australia and authorities such as: National Measurement Institute, Food Standards Australia New Zealand, Victorian Food Safety Unit and CSIRO.

Discover careers in food science

Industry connections

• Build your professional network while you study and gain real industry experience before you graduate.
• Undertake an internship with food manufacturers, regulatory bodies or research organisations.
• Collaborate on industry‑linked research projects, tackling real‑world challenges presented by partner organisations.
• Attend faculty networking events and seminars and connect with alumni and sector leaders.
• Take advantage of the University of Melbourne's industry partnerships through site visits, guest lectures and case study collaborations.

Career support

Plan and achieve your goals with our career support services. Access these services to build your confidence and improve your career readiness while studying.

Support includes:

• Personalised career consultations
• Workshops on resume writing, LinkedIn optimisation, and interview skills
• Access to an exclusive job portal connecting students to industry opportunities
• Networking events with alumni and professionals

Find career advice

Further study

Make a difference through graduate research

Build on your masters qualification to pursue a graduate research degree. Supported by a globally connected research community, you’ll collaborate with supervisors, experts and peers who share your passion for discovery and impact.

Through regular connection with peers, researchers and our global network of industry partners, you’ll develop strong connections with community and industry that open the door to an outstanding future.Explore graduate research