Food Science and Technology, FdSc

Our Foundation Degree in Food Science and Technology has been designed to meet the needs of the food and drink industry for the provision of higher level training in food science and technology. We enhance the skills and knowledge of food professionals, to help them develop into management roles for their employers. First ever Higher Level Apprenticeship in Food Science and Technology in the UK

We are now taking applications for this innovative qualification. It has been combined with this foundation course so upon completion of the course you will graduate with a dual award.

For more information about this option please email us or telephone: +44 (0)115 848 5238.

Why choose this course?

In such a fast moving industry there are excellent opportunities for career progression. There is also a real need for employees to be trained to degree level (classed as higher education). This means that food businesses can capitalise on the latest learning in:

• technology
• biochemistry
• manufacturing
• legislation
• packaging.

You will be able to apply your learning to your products and workplace. This is because the course covers areas such as:

• product development
• scale-up trials
• quality assurance.

Research has shown that applied professional learning, when undertaken alongside working commitments, can help employees to:

• Improve their performance.
• Realise their potential for management level positions.

Why choose this course?

• You will increase your knowledge in a wide range of disciplines in food science and technology including:
  • food safety
  • raw materials
  • quality assurance
  • product development
  • legislation
  • business.
• You will qualify with an industry-focused higher qualification needed for:
  • management
  • advanced supervisory roles
  • product development positions.
• You will develop specialist expertise through practical application in our modern teaching pilot plant and laboratories.
• You will gain sponsorship from your employer as part of your professional development. (We do not arrange the sponsorship package.)
• This course will give you the opportunity to work with your industry peers. You will gain an understanding and knowledge from other food businesses by sharing your work and study experiences together.
• Good rail and road transport links to NTU's Brackenhurst campus enables students to commute from all over the UK.

Earn while you learn

Many students receive sponsorship from their employer to undertake the FdSc Food Science and Technology as part of their professional development. Alternatively, students take the opportunity to find employment around the required one day per week study commitment for the degree. In the current economic climate, students appreciate the opportunity to earn and progress their careers while they study.

What will I study? Modules

Microbiology
This module builds on the basic concepts gained at certificate level by developing knowledge and understanding of microbial food spoilage and toxin production. You will undertake laboratory work, learning and applying a variety of techniques for the microbiological assessment of food.

Introduction to Biochemistry
You will study topics including basic concepts in:

• metabolism
• the biochemical reactions of photosynthesis
• enzyme activity
• fermentation pathways.

Students who progress to the BSc (Hons) programme will continue their study of biochemistry to an advanced level.

Food Industry and Environmental Management
You will:

• Examine the potential environmental impacts of the food industry.
• Evaluate environmental management techniques.

You will also study the approaches of the UK to pollution control, including legislative requiremen.

Food Product Manufacture
This module combines theory with practical application. Using the pilot plant equipment in the food processing hall, you will undertake a range of food processing operations on a broad variety of food raw materials.

Food Unit Operations
You will gain a sound understanding of unit operations used in the food industry, including:

• mixing and emulsifying
• filtration
• heat processing methods
• materials handling
• packaging systems.

Project
You will carry out an individual work based study on a topic approved by the University and your employer.

Food Science
You will study aspects of chemistry and biology that are of particular relevance to food production. Laboratory analysis of foodstuffs will be carried out and you will be introduced to the principles of data analysis.

Food Raw Materials
This module will provide you with an understanding of how the quality and composition of raw materials can affect the final product. Methods of primary production will be examined and food processing practicals undertaken to assess the applicability of raw materials for specific products.

Quality Assurance
This module examines concepts, methodologies and techniques of food quality assurance, including HACCP. Microbiological analyses and shelf-life assessments will be carried out. You will apply this knowledge to your workplace by undertaking a work based project.

Food Safety
The responsibility for safe food lies with food businesses and this module aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to implement safe practices in the production of food. The module (supplemented by content in other modules) covers the CIEH Level Four Food Safety syllabus.

Nutrition and Product Development
You will examine the physiology of the human diet and apply this knowledge by creating a new food product designed to meet a specific nutritional requirement, thereby acquiring an understanding of new product development techniques and the role of NPD in the food manufacturing sector.

Legislation and Business
This module addresses the:

• UK and European legislative framework that regulates food production
• principles that underpin it
• means by which it is administered and enforced. Aspects of business management are also studied.

How will I learn?

The training is delivered on a part-time basis of one day per week. This enables professionals to secure a day-release agreement with their employer to help them pursue the qualifications. The full-foundation degree is taught over eight academic terms (two and a half years) but students can achieve the Higher Education Certificate after 18 months. As well as classroom and lab work, students are supported via our online learning portal.