BSc (Hons) Food Science and Nutrition option for placement year or study abroad

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Northumbria University

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Food Science and Nutrition at Northumbria University is perfect for anyone passionate about food, health, and science. You’ll gain a solid grounding in the science behind food and nutrition while developing practical skills in modern laboratories. The program also offers flexibility: in your third year, you can choose a placement year to gain real-world industry experience or a study abroad year to expand your horizons internationally—both of which are recognized on your transcript and degree certificate.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Building a Strong Foundation

In your first year, you’ll explore the essentials of food science and nutrition through modules like Introduction to Food Science, Human Nutrition, and Biochemistry for Nutrition. Laboratory sessions and workshops help you apply your knowledge and develop key practical skills, setting you up for success in later years.

Year 2: Deepening Knowledge and Application

Year two takes a closer look at more specialized topics such as Food Microbiology, Nutritional Assessment, and Food Chemistry. You’ll tackle complex experiments and case studies, applying your learning to real-world scenarios while sharpening your problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Year 3 (Optional): Placement Year or Study Abroad

This year gives you the chance to step outside the classroom. You can undertake an Industrial Placement Year, gaining hands-on experience in a professional setting, or choose a Study Abroad Year at a partner university, developing your academic and personal skills in a global environment. Both options enhance your experience and employability, and are formally recognized in your transcript and degree certificate.

Year 4: Specialization and Research

Your final year allows you to focus on advanced topics like Food Quality Assurance, Public Health Nutrition, and Research Methods in Nutrition. You’ll complete independent research projects, consolidate your practical skills, and prepare to launch your career or continue your studies at postgraduate level.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Northumbria University, studying Food Science and Nutrition isn’t just about lectures—it’s about getting hands-on experience that prepares you for a career in the field. You’ll work in advanced labs, participate in professional practice modules, and take on research projects, giving you practical skills alongside your academic knowledge.

Here’s how your learning comes to life:

  • Food and Nutrition Lab – Explore food composition, measure body metrics, and assess diets using professional-grade analytical tools.

  • Food Technology Kitchen – Experiment with food preparation and culinary techniques, gaining insight into product development and food innovation.

  • Microbiological Testing Facilities – Learn how to test for food safety and quality, understanding the crucial role of hygiene and contamination prevention.

  • Organoleptic Analysis Lab – Conduct sensory evaluations, assessing taste, smell, and texture of food products.

  • Research Opportunities – Engage in real research projects, contributing to advances in nutrition and food science.

These facilities ensure that you don’t just learn about food and nutrition—you experience it firsthand, building confidence and professional skills that will make you stand out after graduation.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Food Science and Nutrition program leave Northumbria University ready to step confidently into a variety of exciting careers. With a strong mix of scientific knowledge, practical skills, and research experience, alumni often pursue roles such as Food Technologist, Nutritionist, Quality Assurance Officer, or Product Development Specialist. These positions allow graduates to work across the food industry, public health, and clinical nutrition sectors, making a real impact on people’s health and wellbeing.

Your career journey is supported by a range of services and opportunities:

  • Career Support: Northumbria’s Careers & Employment team offers tailored guidance, workshops, and networking events to help you secure internships and graduate roles.

  • Graduate Employment Stats: Around 93% of graduates in this field are employed or in further study within 15 months of finishing their degree, earning an average of £27,000 per year.

  • Industry Partnerships: The university collaborates with food industry leaders, giving you opportunities to engage with real-world projects and gain valuable professional connections.

  • Professional Accreditation: Accredited by the Institute for Food Science and Technology (IFST) and the Association for Nutrition (AfN), ensuring your qualification is recognized and respected in the industry.

  • Research & Innovation: Opportunities to participate in research projects that influence the food and nutrition sectors, enhancing both skills and employability.

Further Academic Progression:
After your undergraduate degree, you could continue your studies with:

  • MSc in Nutritional Science – Gain advanced knowledge and skills for careers in clinical nutrition, public health, or research.

  • MSc in Food Science and Innovation – Focus on developing new food products and technologies for the industry.

  • PhD Opportunities – Pursue specialized research in food science, nutrition, or public health for an academic or research-focused career.

With these pathways, you can tailor your future to match your passions—whether that’s innovating in the food industry, shaping public health, or advancing scientific research.

Program Key Stats

£20,950
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


Eligibility Criteria

ABB - BBB
3.0 - 3.2
31
65

N/A
N/A
6.5
88

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Food Scientist
  • Nutritionist
  • Wellness and Sustainability Coordinator
  • Performance Nutrition Coordinator
  • Product Marketing Coordinator - Nutrition
  •  Nutritional Consultant

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