4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
If you’re curious about food, health, and science but feel you need a little extra preparation before starting a full degree, the BSc (Hons) Food Science and Nutrition with Foundation Year at Surrey is a perfect choice. The foundation year gives you a solid grounding in the core sciences and study skills, so you’ll step into the main degree feeling confident and ready to explore how food affects health, nutrition, and wellbeing.
Curriculum Structure
Foundation Year – Building Confidence in Science
The foundation year focuses on essential science and study skills. You’ll cover Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics, giving you the knowledge and confidence to succeed in more advanced modules.
Year 1 – Introduction to Food Science and Nutrition
Your first academic year introduces you to the core concepts of food science and nutrition. You’ll study Cell Biology and Biological Chemistry, Food Science, Human Nutrition and Health, Biochemistry, and Physiology, providing a strong understanding of how food interacts with the human body.
Year 2 – Developing Practical and Analytical Skills
In year two, you’ll dive deeper into food science and nutrition, with modules such as Food Science: Perception, Processing and Preservation, Food Microbiology, and Nutritional Physiology & Metabolism. You’ll also learn research methods to analyze data and apply your skills in practical contexts.
Year 3 – Specialization and Independent Research
In your final year, you can focus on areas that interest you most and undertake a Dissertation, giving you the chance to carry out independent research. Advanced topics allow you to deepen your expertise and prepare for a career or further study in food science and nutrition.
Focus Areas
Food science, nutritional biochemistry, food processing, food safety, public health nutrition, ingredient functionality, research methods
Learning Outcomes
Graduates will understand the science behind food and nutrition, be able to assess food quality and safety, conduct research, and apply their knowledge in real-world health or industry settings.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
This degree is accredited by the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST), ensuring your skills meet industry standards and helping open doors for careers in food science and nutrition.
Reputation (Employability)
Ranked 1st in the UK for Food Science in the Complete University Guide 2026
Recognized for high student satisfaction and strong industry links
Graduates leave well-prepared for careers in food science, nutrition, and public health
At Surrey, Food Science & Nutrition isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — it’s about getting hands-on and learning by doing. You’ll spend time in modern labs and kitchens, experimenting, testing, and exploring how food and nutrition work in real life. Whether it’s cooking, analyzing nutrients, or designing experiments, these experiences help you build the practical skills and confidence employers are looking for.
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
Food and Nutrition Kitchen Lab – A fully equipped kitchen where you’ll prepare meals, learn food hygiene, modify recipes, and test new ideas, all under expert guidance.
Innovation for Health Learning Laboratory – A state-of-the-art lab for conducting experiments, analyzing nutrients, and applying scientific methods used in industry.
Professional Training Placements – Optional placements with food companies, government bodies, or healthcare organizations, giving you real-world experience and industry contacts.
IFST-accredited Curriculum – Your labs, projects, and assessments are designed to meet the professional standards set by the Institute of Food Science and Technology.
Research Methods Module – Hands-on training in statistics, study design, and dietary analysis, helping you prepare for your dissertation or any future research.
These opportunities mean you graduate not just with knowledge, but with practical experience, professional skills, and confidence to step straight into a career in food science, nutrition, or public health.
A degree in Food Science and Nutrition from Surrey opens up a world of exciting career opportunities. You’ll graduate with the skills and experience to work in the food industry, public health, or even continue your academic journey. Popular roles for graduates include:
Product Development Scientist – Create and improve food products for companies.
Nutritional Consultant – Offer advice to individuals or organizations on healthy eating and diet strategies.
Quality Assurance Manager – Ensure that food products meet safety and quality standards.
Public Health Nutritionist – Help communities improve health through better nutrition programs.
Surrey provides strong support to help you step confidently into your career:
Professional Training Placements – Gain real-world experience with over 2,300 industry partners, from food companies to public health organizations.
Careers and Employability Service – Guidance on CVs, applications, interviews, and networking opportunities.
Alumni Network – Connect with past graduates for mentorship and advice.
Employment Stats and Professional Recognition
92% of Biosciences graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.
Competitive starting salaries in roles across the food, nutrition, and public health sectors.
Accredited by the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST), giving your degree professional recognition and credibility.
Further Academic Progression
If you want to keep learning, you could:
Pursue an MSc in Food Science to specialize in areas like food safety, product development, or food chemistry.
Engage in PhD research in nutrition or food science to explore your own projects and contribute to the field.
With Surrey’s hands-on learning, industry connections, and strong academic foundation, graduates leave ready to make an impact — whether that’s developing the next great food product, improving public health, or continuing to research and innovate.
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.