Nutrition and Food Science - Food Safety and Nutrition

Overview

The curriculum prepares students for employment in the food industry or in government in such areas as quality assurance, product development, research, food inspection, sensory evaluation, and consumer education. 

The Nutrition and Food Science - Food Safety and Nutrition major at Colorado State University  provides an excellent background for a graduate program. Students in the concentration are encouraged to participate in the Food Science/Safety Interdisciplinary Minor to further their understanding of the continuum of responsibility shared through the food system in ensuring that food is safe and healthful. By adding several elective courses, students can also meet the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) course requirements.

Potential Occupations

Participation in community outreach, internships, volunteer activities, or cooperative education opportunities is highly recommended to enhance career planning, skills, and development. Graduates who go on for advanced studies can attain more responsible leadership positions with the possibility of rising to top professional levels.

Some examples of career opportunities include, but are not limited to: dietitian or nutritionist in health care, hospitals, long-term care, schools, state or county health agencies, health clubs, corporate wellness programs, grocery stores/food chains, or private practice; community nutritionist; biomedical scientist; restaurant manager; caterer; quality assurance specialist; food scientist; food inspector; food technologist, food plant manager; food service manager in hospitals, schools, or long-term care. As of March 2020, the average salary for registered dietitians is $51,291, and the salary range is $39,000-67,000.