Food Technology Degrees: Associate's, Bachelor's & Online Course Info

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What kind of job can you get with a degree in food technology? Find out degree requirements, online options and info on courses and food technology programs.
  • At a Glance
  • Associates
  • Bachelors

Studying Food Technology: At a Glance

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Degree programs in food technology offer students a scientific understanding of the foods we eat and how they are made, packaged and sold. Graduates may find work in the food processing industry, test kitchens and food processing lines for private companies. Jobs can also be found in government testing laboratories for regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. With relevant work experience and perhaps additional education, you may be able to find jobs where you're responsible for developing new ingredients, food products and packaging.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), food scientists and technologists earned a median annual wage of about $58,000 in 2011. The BLS reported that employment for food scientists was expected to grow by 10% from 2010-2020, which is about as fast as the average of all occupations. Food technicians were projected to see only a 7% increase in jobs between 2010 and 2020, which was slower than the average of all occupations.

Associate's Bachelor's
Who is this degree for? Students interested in getting a strong foundation in food science for entry-level positions Students who want to advance in the food technology industry and become scientists or get involved in food packaging and design
Common Career Paths (with approximate median salary) - Agricultural and food science technician ($34,000)*
- Agricultural inspector ($40,000)**
- Food scientist or technologist ($58,000)*
Time to Completion 2 years, full-time 4 years, full-time
Common Graduation Requirements - Roughly 7-10 food services/technology courses
- Science and math courses
- About 18-25 food science courses
- Chemistry, biology and math courses
- Research project/seminar
Prerequisites - A high school diploma or GED with a strong background in math and science - A high school diploma or GED with a strong background in math and science
Online Availability No No

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2011 figures), Salary.com figures (as of 2012).

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  • At a Glance
  • Associates
  • Bachelors