MSc Food Science and Technology: Course Details, Colleges, Eligibility, and Career Prospects in India
MSc Food Science and Technology is a postgraduate program focusing on food processing, safety, quality control, and nutrition science. The course prepares graduates for careers in food industries, research, quality assurance, and product development across India.
The MSc Food Science and Technology is a 2-year postgraduate program that focuses on food production, processing, preservation, and quality management. Designed for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, or related disciplines, the course typically requires a minimum of 50% marks for admission. Entry may be based on merit or entrance examinations such as CUET PG or university-level tests. The program combines scientific knowledge with practical training in food chemistry, microbiology, engineering, and nutrition. Annual fees generally range between INR 50,000 and INR 1,30,000. Graduates can explore careers in food processing industries, research and development, quality assurance, and regulatory sectors, with starting salaries ranging from INR 3 LPA to 5.4 LPA.
MSc Food Science and Technology Course Overview
The MSc Food Science and Technology is a 2-year postgraduate program that applies scientific, technological, and engineering principles to food production, processing, preservation, packaging, and quality management. The course integrates food chemistry, microbiology, food engineering, nutrition, and food safety regulations to prepare students for roles in the food processing and research industries. Admission generally requires a bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Agriculture, Nutrition, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or related disciplines with at least 50% marks from a recognized university.
The program combines laboratory training, industrial exposure, research projects, and internships to build practical skills aligned with India’s expanding food processing sector. Graduates can work in quality assurance, research and development, food manufacturing, regulatory bodies, and product innovation. Average course fees and salary packages vary depending on the institution and specialization.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | MSc Food Science and Technology |
| Course Level | Postgraduate |
| Duration | 2 Years (4 Semesters) |
| Course Type | Full-time / Regular (Some universities offer part-time or distance modes) |
| Average Fees | INR 50,000 – INR 1,30,000 per year (Government colleges may be lower) |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Agriculture, Nutrition, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Dairy Technology, or related field |
| Minimum Marks | Usually 50% aggregate (45% for reserved categories in many institutions) |
| Admission Mode | Merit-based or Entrance Exams |
| Popular Entrance Exams | CUET PG, ICAR AIEEA PG, BHU PET (where applicable), State/University Entrance Tests |
| Top Colleges in India | GITAM University, ANGRAU, PJTSAU, MOP Vaishnav College (Chennai), St. Joseph’s College (Bangalore), MSRUAS (Bangalore), BBAU (Lucknow), Sharda University, Khalsa College Amritsar |
| Core Subjects | Food Chemistry, Food Microbiology, Food Engineering, Food Processing Technology, Food Safety & Quality Assurance |
| Average Starting Salary | INR 3 LPA – 5.4 LPA (higher with experience and specialization) |
| Top Recruiters | Food processing companies, FMCG firms, research labs, quality testing agencies |
| Related Courses | MSc Food Processing Technology, MSc Food Engineering, MSc Nutrition & Dietetics, MSc Dairy Technology |
Program Focus Areas
- Food processing and preservation technologies
- Food safety standards and quality control
- Product development and innovation
- Packaging and storage technologies
- Nutritional evaluation and food regulations
This program is well-suited for students aiming to build careers in India’s rapidly growing food technology, agribusiness, and FMCG sectors.
MSc Food Science and Technology Eligibility Criteria: Detailed Requirements for Indian Students
Admission to the MSc Food Science and Technology program in India requires candidates to possess a relevant undergraduate degree in science or allied disciplines related to food, agriculture, or life sciences. Eligibility criteria may vary slightly across universities; however, most institutions follow standard postgraduate admission norms prescribed by UGC-recognized universities. Candidates must meet minimum academic requirements and, in many cases, qualify for national or university-level entrance examinations.
| Parameter | Requirement | Accepted Degrees | Minimum Percentage / CGPA | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Qualification | Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university | BSc Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, Food Processing, Dairy Technology | 50% aggregate (45% for reserved categories in many institutions) | Relevant science background preferred |
| Accepted Science Degrees | Life science or agriculture-based programs | BSc Agriculture, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Home Science | 50% aggregate | Must have studied Biology/Chemistry at UG level |
| Entrance Examination | Required by many universities | CUET PG, ICAR AIEEA PG, BHU PET (where applicable), State/University Entrance Exams | Cut-offs vary by institution | Some colleges offer merit-based admission |
| Subject Requirements | Science-based undergraduate coursework | Chemistry, Biology, Food Science, Nutrition, Biotechnology | As per university norms | Laboratory exposure preferred |
| Age Limit | Generally no upper age limit | Applicable to all eligible candidates | Not Applicable | May vary slightly by institution |
| Reservation Policy | As per Government of India norms | SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD categories | Relaxation in marks applicable | Institutional rules apply |
MSc Food Science and Technology Admission Process in India
Admission to MSc Food Science and Technology programs in India is conducted through merit-based or entrance-based selection depending on the university. The process evaluates academic performance, entrance exam scores, and eligibility compliance. Annual course fees typically range between INR 5,000 and INR 2,00,000, varying across government and private institutions.
Step-by-Step Admission Process
- Check Eligibility Requirements
- Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree with minimum required marks.
- Verify subject prerequisites specified by the university.
- Choose Admission Mode
- Merit-based admission (based on graduation marks), or
- Entrance-based admission through exams such as:
- CUET PG
- ICAR AIEEA PG
- BHU PET (where applicable)
- State or university entrance tests
- Fill Application Form
- Apply through university portals or centralized admission systems.
- Upload academic records, ID proof, photographs, and certificates.
- Appear for Entrance Examination
- Exams assess subject knowledge, analytical ability, and scientific aptitude.
- Merit List & Shortlisting
- Universities release merit lists based on entrance scores or academic performance.
- Counseling & Document Verification
- Verification of mark sheets, degree certificates, category certificates, and identity documents.
- Fee Payment & Admission Confirmation
- Pay tuition fees within the deadline to secure the seat.
Program Admission Outcome
Once admitted, students enroll in a 2-year postgraduate program covering food processing, preservation technologies, packaging systems, food safety management, and quality assurance practices aimed at reducing food loss and improving nutritional standards in the food industry.
Top Government Colleges for MSc Food Science and Technology in India
Government universities offering MSc Food Science and Technology programs in India are known for strong research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, agricultural collaborations, and affordable tuition fees. Most institutions operate under agricultural universities, central universities, or government-funded research systems. Annual fees generally range between INR 10,000 and INR 1,25,000, depending on institutional funding and facilities.
| College Name | City | NIRF / Institutional Category | Approx. Annual Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) | Mysuru | CSIR Research Institute | 25,000 – 60,000 |
| Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) | Guntur | State Agricultural University | 20,000 – 60,000 |
| Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU) | Hyderabad | State Agricultural University | 20,000 – 70,000 |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | Varanasi | NIRF Ranked Central University | 8,000 – 30,000 |
| Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology | Pantnagar | ICAR Agricultural University | 15,000 – 50,000 |
| University of Agricultural Sciences | Bengaluru | State Agricultural University | 20,000 – 70,000 |
| Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) | Coimbatore | ICAR Recognized | 25,000 – 75,000 |
| ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) | New Delhi | Premier Agricultural Research Institute | 30,000 – 1,00,000 |
Top Private Colleges for MSc Food Science and Technology in India
Private universities offering MSc Food Science and Technology emphasize industry exposure, modern food laboratories, internships, and placement training. Programs are usually approved by UGC and follow postgraduate curriculum standards aligned with food industry requirements. Annual fees typically range between INR 50,000 and INR 1,50,000.
| College Name | City | Annual Fees (INR) | Admission Mode | Major Specializations | Approvals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GITAM University | Visakhapatnam | 90,000 – 1,20,000 | Entrance/Merit | Food Processing, Quality Control | UGC |
| Lovely Professional University (LPU) | Phagwara | 80,000 – 1,20,000 | Entrance-Based | Food Technology, Food Processing | UGC |
| Sharda University | Greater Noida | 1,00,000 – 1,40,000 | Merit/Entrance | Food Safety, Food Engineering | UGC |
| MOP Vaishnav College for Women | Chennai | 60,000 – 90,000 | Merit-Based | Food Science, Nutrition | Autonomous/UGC |
| Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (MSRUAS) | Bengaluru | 1,00,000 – 1,50,000 | Entrance-Based | Food Processing, Food Biotechnology | UGC |
| Symbiosis School for Biological Sciences | Pune | 1,20,000 – 1,50,000 | Entrance-Based | Food Technology, Research | UGC |
| Khalsa College | Amritsar | 50,000 – 80,000 | Merit-Based | Food Science, Food Preservation | NAAC Accredited |
| Padmashree Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth | Navi Mumbai | 1,00,000 – 1,25,000 | Merit/Entrance | Food Technology, Food Analysis | UGC/NAAC |
MSc Food Science and Technology Subjects and Syllabus
The MSc Food Science and Technology program in India is a 2-year postgraduate course divided into four semesters, combining theoretical knowledge, laboratory training, industrial exposure, and research work. The curriculum focuses on food chemistry, microbiology, processing technology, food safety regulations, and quality assurance systems. Most universities include internships, seminars, and a dissertation/project in the final semester to develop research and industry skills.
| Year | Semester | Subject Type | Core Subjects | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Year | Semester 1 | Core | Food Chemistry, Food Microbiology, Food Processing Technology, Food Analysis Techniques | 20–22 |
| 1st Year | Semester 1 | Practical | Food Chemistry Lab, Microbiology Lab | Included |
| 1st Year | Semester 2 | Core | Food Engineering, Food Biochemistry, Food Quality Control & Assurance, Nutrition Science | 20–22 |
| 1st Year | Semester 2 | Elective | Functional Foods / Fermentation Technology | Included |
| 2nd Year | Semester 3 | Core | Food Safety & Sanitation, Dairy Technology, Food Packaging Technology, Sensory Evaluation | 22–24 |
| 2nd Year | Semester 3 | Practical | Industrial Training / Internship | Included |
| 2nd Year | Semester 4 | Core | Food Laws & Regulations, Supply Chain Management, Meat & Seafood Technology | 22–24 |
| 2nd Year | Semester 4 | Research | Dissertation / Thesis & Viva Voce | Included |
Check the MSc Food Science Technology syllabus here.
MSc Food Science and Technology Fee Structure
The fee structure for MSc Food Science and Technology programs varies based on institutional type, infrastructure, laboratory facilities, and research exposure. Government universities offer subsidized education, while private universities typically charge higher tuition due to advanced facilities and industry collaborations.
| College Name | College Type | Average Annual Fees (INR) | Hostel Fees (INR) | Other Costs (INR) | Scholarship Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banaras Hindu University | Government | 8,000 – 30,000 | 20,000 | 8,000 – 10,000 | Merit & Category Based |
| Pondicherry University | Central Government | 20,000 – 60,000 | 25,000 | 10,000 – 12,000 | Yes |
| Gautam Buddha University | State Government | 30,000 – 50,000 | 15,000 | 8,000 | Yes |
| Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University | State Government | 25,000 – 55,000 | 22,000 | 10,000 | Yes |
| ANGRAU | Agricultural University | 20,000 – 45,000 | 18,000 | 9,000 | ICAR Scholarships |
| PJTSAU | Agricultural University | 25,000 – 50,000 | 20,000 | 10,000 | Yes |
| Lovely Professional University (LPU) | Private | 1,20,000 – 1,50,000 | 80,000 | 20,000 | Merit Scholarships |
| Karunya Institute of Technology & Sciences | Private | 1,00,000 – 1,20,000 | 60,000 | 18,000 | Yes |
| Rayat Bahra University | Private | 1,50,000 – 1,80,000 | 90,000 | 25,000 | Yes |
| GITAM University | Private | 1,20,000 – 1,40,000 | 70,000 | 20,000 | Merit/Entrance Based |
Entrance Exams for MSc Food Science and Technology in India
Admission to MSc Food Science and Technology programs in India is offered through national-level, agricultural university, and university-specific entrance examinations. These exams assess subject knowledge in food science, chemistry, microbiology, and life sciences.
| Exam Name | Conducting Body | Exam Type | Eligibility | Syllabus Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CUET PG | National Testing Agency (NTA) | National | Bachelor’s degree in relevant science field | Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, Life Sciences |
| ICAR AIEEA PG | Indian Council of Agricultural Research | National | B.Sc. Agriculture/Food Tech/Food Science | Agriculture & Food Technology Subjects |
| CFTRI Entrance Exam | CSIR–CFTRI | National Institute Level | Relevant Bachelor’s Degree | Food Processing, Food Engineering |
| LPU NEST | Lovely Professional University | University Level | Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks | Food Technology & Science Basics |
| MDU CEE | Maharshi Dayanand University | State/University | Relevant Graduation | Subject-specific MCQs |
| University-Specific Entrance Exams | Individual Universities | University | Bachelor’s degree | UG-level Food Science Topics |
MSc Food Science and Technology Career and Job Opportunities in India
The MSc Food Science and Technology degree offers strong career prospects due to rising demand for safe, processed, and nutritionally enhanced food products in India and globally. Graduates are employed across food manufacturing industries, research laboratories, regulatory bodies, quality assurance departments, and multinational food companies. The program combines scientific knowledge with industrial applications, making candidates suitable for both technical and managerial roles.
| Job Role | Key Responsibilities | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Food Technologist | Develop food products, improve processing methods | 3 – 6 LPA |
| Quality Assurance Manager | Ensure food safety standards and compliance | 4 – 7 LPA |
| Food Safety Officer | Monitor hygiene, inspection, and regulations | 3 – 5.5 LPA |
| R&D Executive | Product innovation and formulation research | 4 – 8 LPA |
| Nutrition Consultant | Nutritional evaluation and diet planning | 3 – 6 LPA |
| Production Manager | Supervise food manufacturing operations | 5 – 9 LPA |
| Packaging Technologist | Design sustainable food packaging solutions | 4 – 7 LPA |
| Microbiologist | Food testing and contamination analysis | 3 – 6 LPA |
| Supply Chain Analyst | Manage storage, logistics, and distribution | 4 – 8 LPA |
| Lecturer/Research Associate | Teaching and academic research | 4 – 7 LPA |
Top Recruiters in India
- Amul
- Nestlé India
- Britannia Industries
- ITC Foods
- PepsiCo India
- Parle Products
- Mother Dairy
- FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India)
- CFTRI Research Labs
Higher Studies and Career Advancement Options
- PhD in Food Science / Food Technology
- MBA in Food & Agribusiness Management
- MSc Nutrition & Dietetics
- Food Safety Certification (HACCP, ISO 22000)
- International Food Quality Certifications
Expected Salary Growth
- Entry Level: INR 3 – 5.4 LPA
- Mid-Level (5–8 years): INR 7 – 12 LPA
- Senior Roles/Management: INR 15+ LPA
With increasing focus on food safety regulations, packaged foods, and sustainable food systems, MSc Food Science and Technology graduates have expanding opportunities in both Indian and global food industries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the duration of the MSc Food Science and Technology course in India?
The MSc Food Science and Technology course duration is typically 2 years. The average fees for this course range from INR 50,000 to INR 1,30,000. This information is based on the general details of the course.
Q2. What are the eligibility criteria for MSc Food Science and Technology in India?
To be eligible for MSc Food Science and Technology, a student must have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum of 50% marks. The acceptable degrees include Food Science, Food Technology, Nutrition, and related disciplines. Some colleges may also require entrance exams like BHU PET or OUCET.
Q3. What are the top government colleges for MSc Food Science and Technology in India?
Some of the top government colleges for MSc Food Science and Technology in India include Banaras Hindu University, Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU), and Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU). These colleges have a NIRF ranking and offer the course at annual fees ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 1,25,000.
Q4. What are the entrance exams for MSc Food Science and Technology in India?
The entrance exams for MSc Food Science and Technology in India include BHU PET, CUET PG, ICAR AIEEA PG, OUCET, and CFTRI Entrance Exam. These exams are conducted by different bodies and have specific eligibility criteria and syllabus. For example, CUET PG requires a Bachelor’s degree with 50% marks and tests topics like Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, and Microbiology.
Q5. What is the average job salary for MSc Food Science and Technology graduates in India?
The average job salary for MSc Food Science and Technology graduates in India ranges from INR 3 LPA to 5.4 LPA. Graduates can find jobs as food technologists, quality control managers, and R&D scientists. This information is based on the general career prospects of the course.
