Food science education can help you turn your love of cooking from a hobby into a career. Food science classes take cooking and food preparation to a higher level, teaching you about food preservation and safety, among other things.

You should definitely have a scientific mind if you want to get an education in food science, as it combines a number of different scientific disciplines. Those who are interested simply in cooking need not apply.

With a food science education, you can:

1. Decide if it's the right career for you. Take the time to learn about the industry before you start any food science degree programs. This ensures that you do not waste time and money by studying something that you're not particularly interested in.

2. Advance your career. As you get a food technologist education, you will become eligible for higher positions in your company or in another company.

3. Increase your salary. By taking additional food science training classes, you increase your knowledge, which makes you more valuable to your employer. Hopefully, your company will reward your diligence with an increase in pay.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find self-study food science classes to learn about food science

You may have an interest in food science but are not sure whether it is really the right career for you. Fortunately, many self-study programs teach about the industry, so you can make an informed decision about whether you want to pursue food science as a career.

I recommend: The Institute of Food Technologists offers an Introduction to the Food Industry. This is a great resource for those that are new to the food science. Penn State offers Discover Food Science, an interactive self study on food science.

Look for colleges that offer degrees in food science

If you are serious about starting a career in food science, you'll need to get a 4-year degree to get the best jobs in the industry. Choose a school that offers a program specifically studying food science.

I recommend: The University of California at Davis offers a degree in food science, as does Cornell University. The Institute of Food Technologists approves both programs, so you can be sure that you get a quality education.

Attend food science seminars to brush up on your knowledge

Even if you are already working in the industry, it's a good idea to periodically refresh your knowledge by attending short seminars. This will make sure that you have the most up-to-date knowledge about the food science industry.

I recommend: Texas A&M University occasionally gives seminars in food science and nutrition. Check its site for the latest seminar. Exploratorium offers webcasts that you can view from the comfort of your home or office.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Nutrition science programs are often different from food science classes. Nutrition deals with the chemical makeup of food and how our bodies process it, while food science looks more at how you can make food. Make sure you understand the difference before you choose a program.