AgriSciences
The world’s food system has over centuries evolved into a structure of immense size and complexity. Food scientists have to apply cutting-edge technologies to develop new food products and constantly seek to improve existing techniques by which new products are effectively developed, processed, packaged, stored and transported. As such it’s the commitment of food science and technology professionals to advancing the science of food that ensures a safe and abundant food supply.
The Department of Food Science was established in 1952 and is internationally renowned for its excellence in teaching and research. It has a proud history of producing food scientists of the highest calibre and its students are highly regarded both locally and internationally.
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- An NSC aggregate of at least 60% (excluding Life Orientation)
- English or Afrikaans (Home Language or First Additional Language) 50%
- Mathematics 60%
- Physical Sciences (Physics and Chemistry) 50%
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Admission requirements to study Food Science
An NSC aggregate of at least 5 (60%)
English/Afrikaans: Home language or First additional language 4 (50%)
Physical Sciences 4 (50%)
Mathematics 5 (60%)
Please note that only a limited number of students can be accommodated and meeting the requirements, unfortunately, does not guarantee a place in the programme.
How long is the course?
Food Science is a four-year degree.
Can I do post-grad studies?
Yes, you can. You can start your postgraduate studies with a 2-year MSc in Food Science. A PhD in Food Science will take a further 3 years. We have a very strong, internationally recognized, research team at the Food Science Department.
Where would I be able to work?
Food Science, as a profession, has a very broad scope. During your four years of study, you will also do industry training, which will expose you to various fields within the profession.
Will I get a job?
Stellenbosch University Food Science graduates are very sought after in the local and international Food Industry. At the Food Science Department, we get numerous inquiries from our Industry partners when recruiting. The Food Industry is one of the biggest industries – we all have to eat, right?!
Do I need Maths and Science?
Yes, you most definitely need these two subjects. Food Science is a BSc degree with a Food Science application, therefore you will need a strong basic knowledge and understanding of science.
What is a Food Scientist?
A Food Scientist is the person who cares for your food all the way from the farm gate, until it lands on your plate, ensuring that it is safe to eat, nutritious, comes from a sustainable source, is environmentally friendly and most importantly, is DELICIOUS.
Is a Food Scientist a chef?
Absolutely not… but if you have some sound cooking skills and are quite creative, you will very much like this application of your scientific knowledge.
Do I work out people’s diets?
That will be the job of a nutritionist. You will, however, gain a basic knowledge of Nutrition to be able to know how to read food labels properly, and how to develop a highly nutritious food product.
Do I need a car to travel from main campus to the Food Science building?
It is a 1.5km walk from the main campus which will take you about 15 minutes. We have safe parking for bicycles and there is a free shuttle service on the hour, every hour, from the main campus to the front of our building.
Is it safe to walk to the Food Science building?
The safety of our students is a major important priority to us. We have a security guard on duty (from 07h00 – 17h00 daily) at the Food Science building watching over our cars, bicycles, and the building. The University also has very active and alert campus security members, monitoring the entire campus on foot, in patrol vehicles and with smart technology cameras. Students are always requested to walk in groups and to be vigilant.
Is the Department supportive towards students?
The Food Science Department, being part of the AgriSciences Faculty, is most supportive of students. We will gladly offer help and support. There are numerous channels of help, from academic, financial to psychological support. We want our students to function at optimum capacity, therefore we have an open-door policy. If you need help, please feel free to ask for it.
