Overview

The Food Science programme at South Dakota State University provides students with the scientific foundation required to manage and innovate within the global food industry. This curriculum emphasises the creation of safe, high-quality, and functional food products that meet modern nutritional demands. By combining theoretical study with practical application, the university prepares graduates for leadership roles in food processing.

Why Food Science at South Dakota State University?

Students benefit from a curriculum that bridges the gap between laboratory science and commercial application. The university offers access to specialised facilities, such as the Davis Dairy Plant, where students gain real-world experience in food preparation and chemistry. The programme is designed for those who wish to solve local and global market challenges through innovation and creative product development. Commercial internships are a core component, ensuring students build professional networks before graduation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 387 per credit
National fee: USD 387 per credit
Local fee: USD 267 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Food Product Development
Sensory Evaluation
Food Chemistry
Food Processing
Bioprocessing Sciences
Meat Science
Food Safety

Careers with Food Science

Graduates are prepared for diverse technical and managerial roles across the private and public sectors. The programme equips students with the skills necessary to ensure food safety, manage production lines, and conduct vital research into new flavours and nutritional profiles. Common career paths include:

Food Production Manager
Quality Assurance Supervisor
Research and Development Specialist
Sensory Science Specialist
Food Safety Specialist
Food or Flavor Chemist
State or Federal Inspector
Food Regulation and Policy Adviser

Recent alumni have secured positions at prominent organisations such as The Kraft Heinz Company, Nestle, Hormel, and Glanbia Foods. Others have found success within state extension services and public health agencies, contributing to national food security and safety standards.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Food Law
Food Processing and Engineering Fundamentals and Lab
First Year Seminar – Dairy and Food Science
Food Safety and Quality Management Systems
Dairy Foods

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00 , International

More details

National: SDSU accepts applications on a rolling admissions timeline.

Language

English

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IELTS

5.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Brookings, United States

Disciplines

Food Science View 305 other Bachelors in Food Science in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

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IELTS

5.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

For admission to SDSU, we look for one of the following academic achievements:

An ACT composite score or ACT superscore of 18 or SAT Math and Reading/Writing subscore total of 970 or
Level 3 or higher on Math and English Language Arts Smarter Balance Assessment or
A high school cumulative GPA of 2.6 or higher or
A ranking in the top 60 percent of graduating class.

Students should also complete the following core courses with a “C” average or above:

4 years of English (or ACT English subscore of 18 or above).
3 years of advanced math—Algebra I and higher (or ACT math subscore of 20).
3 years of laboratory science (or ACT science reasoning subscore of 17).
3 years of social science (or ACT reading subscore of 17).
1 year of fine arts (or AP Fine Arts score of 3 or above) Includes vocal, instrumental and studio arts.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Out-of-State

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8010 USD / year

≈ 8010 USD / year

Additional Details

Minnesota Resident: $312.25 per credit.

Living costs

Brookings

United States

1085 - 1888 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Food Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Brookings

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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