BSc Nutrition and Food Science with Professional Training

The BSc Nutrition and Food Science with Professional Training program at Reading goes beyond textbooks, giving you hands-on experience with real-world applications. You’ll spend time in cutting-edge labs, work on group projects, and develop practical skills that employers value, all while learning from experts in nutrition and food science. The program also includes a year-long professional placement, helping you apply your knowledge in an industry setting and build professional connections.

Here’s what your learning experience looks like in practice:

• Food Processing Centre – Work with industry-standard equipment to develop and test new food products in conditions similar to real manufacturing.

• Hugh Sinclair Unit of Human Nutrition – Take part in studies that explore how diet impacts health and disease risk.

• Flavour Centre – Investigate the science of taste and aroma to design successful new products.

• Sensory Science Centre – Conduct sensory evaluations to understand consumer preferences.

• Flow Cytometry Suite & Chemical Analysis Facilities – Use advanced tools like NMR spectrometers and mass spectrometry to study food composition and nutrition.

• Dedicated Laboratories – Gain hands-on experience in food safety, microbiology, and nutrition research.

• Professional Placement Year – Apply your skills in a real-world work environment, enhancing employability and industry insight.

All these opportunities ensure you leave the program not only with theoretical knowledge but also practical experience that makes you career-ready.

Future Progression & Opportunities

Graduates from the BSc Nutrition and Food Science with Professional Training program leave Reading ready to make an impact in the food and nutrition sectors. The combination of academic learning and a full year of professional training means you’ll have both the knowledge and hands-on experience that employers look for. Typical career paths include:

• Nutritionist – advising individuals or communities on healthy eating and dietary choices.

• Food Scientist – researching and improving food quality, safety, and innovation.

• Product Development Specialist – designing and creating new food products for the market.

• Public Health Advisor – developing nutrition programs and policies to improve population health.

To support your career journey, Reading offers:

• Career Development Centre – personalized guidance, CV workshops, and interview prep.

• Industry Placement Support – help securing relevant work experience placements.

• Networking Opportunities – connect with alumni and industry professionals for mentorship and job leads.

Employment Stats and Outcomes:

• Graduate Employment Rate: 94% of graduates are employed or pursuing further study within 15 months.

• Median Salary: Around £26,000 per year within 18 months of graduation.

• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Association for Nutrition (AfN), giving long-term professional recognition.

• Industry Connections: Strong partnerships with leading companies help students gain practical experience and job-ready skills.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies through advanced degrees such as:

• MSc in Nutrition and Food Science – focus on the scientific principles of nutrition and diet.

• MSc in Food Science – deeper insight into food technology and product development.

• PhD Programs – pursue research in specialized areas of nutrition or food science.

These options give you the chance to specialize, enhance your expertise, and open doors to leadership roles in the field.