Food science is a multidisciplinary field and focuses on the scientific study of food and its components. The demand for food science professionals is growing rapidly due to the increasing demand for food safety, quality, and sustainability. Food science courses in Canada provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the science behind food and its production. The duration of the undergraduate courses is four years, and the postgraduate courses are one to two years. The average fees for international students range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 25,000 yearly for Food Science courses in Canada.

Why study Food Science in Canada?

• Canada is known for providing high-quality education recognized worldwide. Many Canadian universities are ranked among the top universities globally, providing students with the opportunity to learn from some of the best professors and experts in the field.
• Canada is known for its strong research culture, and several universities offer research opportunities to students. Students can participate in research projects, work with industry partners and gain practical experience in the field.
• Canada's food industry is vast and diverse, providing students with a wide range of career opportunities. From food processing and manufacturing to food safety and quality control, students can choose from various career paths upon graduation.
• Canada has student-friendly policies, such as post-graduation work permits and immigration pathways. These policies give the opportunity to gain work experience and seek permanent residency in Canada.

Food  Science Course in Canada: Highlight

Best Universities for Food Science Courses in Canada

Here are the best universities for food science courses in Canada, along with their QS world ranking 2023, fees, programs offered, and admission deadlines:

Level of Study for Food Science Courses in Canada

Bachelor's level

Bachelor's in food science is a 3-4 year program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the science behind food and its production. The cost of studying for a bachelor's degree in food science varies depending on the university and program; the average food science in Canada fee for international students is CAD 17,000 to CAD 30,000 per year.

The courses offered in the Bachelor's level include:

• Bachelor in Food Process Engineering
• B. Eng. Food Technology
• B.Sc. Food, Nutrition and Dietetics
• B.Sc. Food Technology
• Bachelor in Food Production

The eligibility criteria for admission to a bachelor's program in food science include the following:

1. Must have completed high school or an equivalent program with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher on a scale of 4.0. 

2. Must have taken the required prerequisite courses, including Mathematics, Chemistry, and Biology. 

3. Provide proof of English language proficiency by achieving a satisfactory score on tests like TOEFL or IELTS. 

• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: 86
• Duolingo: 115
• CAEL: 70
• PTE: 60

4. Submit a personal statement outlining your interest in Food Science and your career aspirations and letters of recommendation from your high school teachers or other professionals.

The application process for Bachelor's in Food Science in Canada include:

• Look for universities offering food science courses and check their entry requirements as well as application deadlines. 
• Select your preferred course and university and compile all required documents, such as transcripts, personal statements, and reference letters. 
• Submit your application online directly to the university. 
• Keep track of your application status and respond promptly to any other requirements. Some universities also conduct online interviews to take your aptitude test. 
• If accepted, you will receive an offer letter and can begin preparing for your visa.

Master's level

Master's in food science is a 1 to 2 years program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field. The food science in Canada fees for international students is CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000 per year.

The courses offered in the Master’s level include:

• Master in Food Process Engineering
• Masters in Food Chemistry
• Master in Food Processing
• Master in Food Microbiology
• Masters in Food Technology
• Masters in Food, Nutrition and Dietetics
• Masters in Food Production

The eligibility criteria for admission to a Master's program in food science include the following:

1. Must have a bachelor's degree in Food Science or a related field. Some universities may require you to have a minimum of 70% to 80% marks to apply for the program. 

2. Proficiency in English is a must for international students. Most universities require an IELTS or TOEFL score to prove your English language proficiency. 

• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: 86
• Duolingo: 115
• CAEL: 70
• PTE: 60

3. Work experience or research experience in the relevant field. 

4. Provide letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose explaining why you want to pursue the food science courses in Canada and how it aligns with your career goals. 

The application process for a Master's in Food Science in Canada include the following:

• Explore and select the master's program that satisfactorily fits your interests and career goals. 
• Collect all required documents, including academic transcripts and English language proficiency test scores, LOR, CV and work experience and submit them on the university website. 
• Once eligible, submit the other required documents asked by the university, such as a personal statement outlining your motivations and qualifications. 
• Attend the interview to prove your skills before receiving an offer letter. 
• After getting the offer letter, submit your fees before the given university deadline.

Doctorate level

Doctorate in food science is a three to four years program, offering students with in-depth knowledge and skills in Food technology and its related fields such as nutrition, food chemistry, dietetics, toxicology and more. The cost of studying for a doctorate degree in food science for international students is CAD 10,000 to CAD 25,000 yearly.

The courses offered in the Doctorate level include:

• PhD in Food Chemistry
• PhD in Food Microbiology
• PhD in Food Processing
• PhD in Food Biotechnology

The eligibility criteria for admission to a PhD program in food science include the following:

1. Have a master's degree in a relevant field, such as food science, biology, or chemistry.

2. Have a strong academic record with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 out of 4.0. 

3. Provide transcripts of all your post-secondary education.

4. Demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. 

• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: 86
• Duolingo: 115
• CAEL: 70
• PTE: 60

The application process includes the following:

• Search the top universities for Food Science in the UK and the courses available. 
• Check the admission requirements and submit your application with all necessary documents and transcripts. 
• Prepare for the interview and other cognitive abilities tests. 
• Give the interview to showcase your skills and desire for your career. 
• If accepted, pay the course fee and start your journey towards your dream career.

Scholarship and Financial Aid for Food Science Courses in Canada

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: 

This scholarship is available to doctoral students with academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills for up to three years.

Canada Graduate Scholarships:

The goal of the Canada Graduate Scholarships - Master's (CGS M) program is to support students who have demonstrated a high level of accomplishment in undergraduate and early graduate studies to help build research abilities.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Excellence Awards, University of Saskatchewan

This award recognizes students who show leadership within the USask community skills, academic excellence, community involvement, being a role model for other students, and strong moral character, integrity, professionalism, compassion and sincerity.

International Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships, University of Guelph

The University of Guelph Entrance scholarships are monetary awards given to international students who demonstrate their academic excellence, leadership abilities and other extra-curricular involvement. 

Career Opportunities after Food Science in Canada 

Food science graduates can pursue different food science in Canada jobs, including:

1. Food Technologists work in food processing and manufacturing companies to develop and improve food products. 
2. Quality Assurance Manager ensures that food products meet industry standards and regulations.
3. Food Safety Specialists ensure that food products are safe for consumption. 
4. Research and Development Scientists work in food processing and manufacturing companies to develop new food products and improve existing ones.
5. Sensory Scientists work in food processing and manufacturing companies to evaluate the sensory properties of food products.
6. Food and Beverage Directors work in the hospitality industry to manage food and beverage operations.