BS Food Science

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

California State University Long Beach

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Food Science at California State University, Long Beach is designed for students who are curious about the science behind what we eat. You’ll explore how chemistry, biology, and nutrition come together to make food safe, nutritious, and appealing. This program is perfect for anyone passionate about health, innovation, and food technology — and who wants to make a difference in the way food is produced and consumed.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your journey begins with a strong foundation in science through courses like General Chemistry, Human Nutrition, and Introduction to Food Science. You’ll start to see how the chemical and biological makeup of foods affects everything from flavor to nutrition, setting the stage for advanced study in later years.

Year 2:
In the second year, you’ll move from theory to application. Subjects such as Food Processing and Preservation, Organic Chemistry, and Food Sanitation teach you how foods are created, handled, and stored safely — essential knowledge for anyone entering the food industry.

Year 3:
By your third year, the focus becomes more specialized. You’ll study Food Chemistry, Food Microbiology, and Sensory Evaluation of Foods, gaining hands-on experience in analyzing food composition, ensuring safety, and understanding how consumers perceive taste, texture, and aroma.

Year 4:
In your final year, everything comes together through practical projects in courses like Food Product Development and Food Analysis. You’ll work on developing and testing your own food products, applying all the scientific and creative skills you’ve built throughout the program — just like professionals in the industry do.

Focus Areas: Food chemistry, food microbiology, product development, food safety, sensory science, nutrition, and food processing technology.

Learning Outcomes: You’ll graduate ready to apply scientific knowledge to food production, ensure safety and quality standards, create innovative food products, and evaluate foods for their nutritional and chemical makeup.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), ensuring your degree meets national standards in food science education.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): CSULB is consistently ranked among the Top Public Universities in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report) and is recognized as one of the Top 10 CSU campuses for graduate employability, with strong industry links and internship opportunities.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At California State University, Long Beach, the Bachelor of Science in Food Science goes far beyond textbooks. Students get to explore every side of the food industry — from testing flavors in sensory labs to solving real-world challenges in food production and safety. The program blends theory with practical, hands-on learning so you graduate with both knowledge and experience.

Here’s what that looks like in action:

Food Chemistry & Analysis Lab: Students experiment with food composition, quality testing, and product formulation — learning how science keeps our food safe and nutritious.
Sensory Evaluation Lab: Here, you’ll analyze consumer preferences and compare food samples to understand how taste, texture, and aroma influence food quality.
Industry Internship (FSCI 492F): A required placement that gives you real-world experience in areas like food manufacturing, research and development, or quality assurance.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Gain global insight into food systems and culture through short-term or semester exchange programs.
Research & Industry Collaboration: Work on team projects with faculty and food industry partners to create innovative food solutions.

Students also have access to modern facilities within the Family and Consumer Sciences Department, equipped with research labs, testing kitchens, and digital tools that prepare you for professional success.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Food Science at California State University, Long Beach are well-prepared to step into one of the most innovative and fast-growing industries — the world of food. This program opens doors to exciting careers that blend science, creativity, and health. Whether you dream of developing new food products, improving food safety, or influencing public nutrition, you’ll graduate ready for roles like Food Technologist, Quality Assurance Specialist, Product Development Scientist, or Nutrition Consultant.

At CSULB, you’ll get plenty of support to launch your career and build lasting connections:

Career Development Center: Personalized guidance, resume and interview workshops, and exclusive job and internship listings tailored to Food Science students.
Industry Partnerships: Strong links with California’s food manufacturing, research, and technology sectors help students land valuable internships and job placements.
Professional Accreditation: The program is approved by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) — a mark of quality that’s recognized and respected worldwide.
Graduate Outcomes: Many alumni go on to work with leading food brands, research labs, and health-focused organizations, building successful careers in both private and public sectors.
Career Advantage: Employers value CSULB graduates for their practical experience, problem-solving mindset, and deep understanding of food quality and innovation.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your bachelor’s degree, you can continue your studies with a Master’s in Food Science, Nutrition, or Public Health, or earn professional credentials like the Certified Food Scientist (CFS) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) — both of which can elevate your career to the next level.