What is food science?
Food science is the scholarly and exciting study of all things food! More specifically, food science is the study and application of science to the analysis, processing and manufacturing of foods. These sciences include chemistry, biology, microbiology and physics. The goal of discovery in the realm of food science is to solve today’s global-to-local food and health problems including hunger, food waste and food safety.
A B.S. degree in food science provides excellent opportunities to secure a rewarding career in a competitive field while making a positive impact on environmental and human wellbeing. Housed in Babcock Hall, the Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences offers students small class sizes; close contact with faculty and instructors; industry contact and presentation; and access to the modern Food Applications Lab and the award-winning Babcock Hall Dairy Plant.
The food industry is a fast-paced, competitive and growing sector of the global economy. With nearly 100% job placement, our graduates are equipped to compete and succeed in a modern global economy. Students have the opportunity for internships and full-time employment with international brands.
Transferring within UW
Students interested in transferring need to have a minimum GPA of 2.0.
Students should prepare to take an extra year if they transfer late or haven’t taken all the background science classes.
All transfers from within UW–Madison must meet with an advisor to go through coursework before they can transfer. Contact Richard Hartel (rwhartel@wisc.edu) to complete a transfer form online with a food science undergraduate advisor.
Transferring from outside UW
Reach out to UW Admissions to make sure you meet all the requirements and apply as a transfer student.
Check Transferology to see which current courses might transfer over toward your food science degree. If you’re looking for a place to start, taking STEM classes like physics, biology, chemistry and calculus are necessary prerequisites for a food science major at UW–Madison.
Review our curricular road mad to get an overview of what courses you will need to take towards your degree.
Schedule a visit with us to tour our department and talk to an advisor one-on-one.
International Transfer
International Student Services (ISS) serves F-1/J-1 international students once they have been admitted to a program of study. Please direct your questions to the admission office through which you apply.