MSc Food Technology: Course Overview, Admissions, Syllabus, and Career Scope

Vaishali Pandey
November 7, 2024

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If you're interested in food science, a Master in Food Technology might be your ideal postgraduate degree. This course equips you with specialised knowledge of food production, safety, quality, and innovations. Here, you'll explore essential details about the MSc Food Technology course, eligibility criteria, admission process, top colleges, syllabus, and career opportunities. 

Let's dive into the specifics of this field.

MSc Food Technology: What Is It About?

An MSc in Food Technology blends food science, biology, and engineering, focusing on food production, preservation, quality assurance, and product innovation. You’ll study food composition, nutritional value, processing, and the technology behind manufacturing safe and quality foods. This field is critical in maintaining public health, reducing waste, and creating sustainable food solutions.

MSc Food Technology Course Highlights

Feature

Details

Degree Type

Postgraduate

Duration

2 years

Eligibility

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field (with specific percentage requirements)

Entrance Exam

GATE, ICAR, CUET, and university-specific tests

Average Fees

₹50,000 - ₹2,00,000 per year

Top Colleges

CFTRI, IIFPT, Amity University, Delhi University

Job Roles

Food Technologist, Quality Assurance Manager, R&D Specialist

Average Salary

₹4,00,000 - ₹10,00,000 per annum

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Why Study MSc Food Technology?

Here’s why an MSc Food Technology is worth considering:

1. High Demand

 Food technologists are needed across food industries, research institutes, and government sectors.

2. Diverse Career Paths

 From product development to food safety, you can explore various job roles.

3. Global Relevance

With food technology constantly evolving, this field offers global job prospects.

4. Innovation & Sustainability

 If you're passionate about sustainable food production, this course equips you to make an impact.

Admission Process for MSc Food Technology

Getting into an MSc Food Technology programme involves a few critical steps. Admission requirements may vary by institution.

Step

Description

Research Colleges

Identify colleges offering MSc Food Technology programs that match your interests and career goals.

Meet Eligibility

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, such as the required undergraduate degree and minimum marks.

Prepare for Entrance Exams

Some colleges require specific entrance exams like CUET, ICAR AIEEA, or GATE for admission.

Apply Online

Complete and submit application forms on the college's official website or portal.

Clear Entrance Exams

Score well on the entrance exams to move to the next selection stage.

Interview/Selection

Participate in interviews (if required) for final selection.

Merit List and Admission

Admission is based on merit, exam scores, or interview performance as per college criteria.

‍Minimal Documentation. Higher Chances of Approval. Easy Online Processes. Check Your Eligibility.

MSc Food Technology Eligibility Criteria

Each college has specific criteria, but here are the general requirements:

1. Bachelor’s Degree

 You must have a bachelor’s degree in food science, biotechnology, chemistry, or other related fields.

2. Minimum Marks

 A minimum score of 50% in your undergraduate degree is typically needed.

3. Entrance Exam

 Some colleges mandate scores from exams like CUET or ICAR.

MSc Food Technology Entrance Exams

Most institutions require an entrance exam score for admission. Here’s a list of popular exams for MSc Food Technology

Exam Name

Conducting Body

Tentative Exam Date

CUET-PG

National Testing Agency (NTA)

June 2025

ICAR AIEEA-PG

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

July 2025

GATE (Food Technology)

IITs, IISc

February 2025

TANCET

Anna University

March 2025

DUET

Delhi University

September 2025

BITS Pilani Entrance Exam

BITS Pilani

June 2025

BHU PET

Banaras Hindu University

May 2025

JNUEE

Jawaharlal Nehru University

December 2025

Preparing for these exams involves a solid understanding of food science basics, quantitative aptitude, and sometimes general knowledge.

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MSc Food Technology Syllabus

The syllabus for MSc Food Technology varies but generally includes these core subjects:

First Year

Semester I

Semester II

Food Chemistry

Unit Operations in Food Processing

Principles of Food Engineering

Dairy Technology

Food Microbiology

Technology of Fruits and Vegetables

Principles of Food Processing and Preservation

Advanced Food Analysis Techniques

Lab-I: Food Microbiology

Lab-III: Dairy Technology Practicals

Lab-II: Food Preservation Techniques

Lab-IV: Fruits and Vegetables Analysis

Open Elective I

Open Elective II

Seminar I

Seminar II

Second Year

Semester III

Semester IV

Technology of Cereals and Pulses

Research Project/Thesis

Technology of Meat, Fish, and Poultry

Food Safety and Quality Assurance

Packaging Technology

Bioprocess Technology

Beverage Technology

Food Biotechnology

Elective I (e.g., Functional Foods)

Elective III (e.g., Nutritional Genomics)

Elective II (e.g., Sensory Evaluation)

Advanced Topics in Food Technology

Lab-V: Cereals, Pulses, and Oilseeds Analysis

Lab-VII: Bioprocess and Biotechnology Practicals

Lab-VI: Packaging and Shelf-Life Testing

Lab-VIII: Quality Control Practicals

Industrial Internship/In-Plant Training

Final Seminar

Top MSc Food Technology  Colleges in India

Choosing the right college can make a huge difference in your career. Here are some top institutes offering MSc Food Technology.

College Name

Location

Approximate Fees (INR)

Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI)

Mysore, Karnataka

₹60,000 - ₹80,000 per year

Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology (IIFPT)

Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

₹50,000 - ₹70,000 per year

Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT)

Mumbai, Maharashtra

₹1,50,000 - ₹2,00,000 per year

National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM)

Sonipat, Haryana

₹1,30,000 - ₹1,70,000 per year

Amity University

Noida, Uttar Pradesh

₹1,50,000 - ₹2,00,000 per year

Jadavpur University

Kolkata, West Bengal

₹20,000 - ₹30,000 per year

University of Mysore

Mysore, Karnataka

₹20,000 - ₹30,000 per year

Osmania University

Hyderabad, Telangana

₹10,000 - ₹20,000 per year

Anna University

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

₹60,000 - ₹80,000 per year

Delhi University

Delhi

₹10,000 - ₹25,000 per year

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU)

Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

₹40,000 - ₹60,000 per year

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU)

Ludhiana, Punjab

₹30,000 - ₹40,000 per year

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

₹5,000 - ₹10,000 per year

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MSc Food Technology vs Masters in Food Science

If you're exploring postgraduate studies in food-related fields, it’s crucial to understand the differences between MSc Food Technology and Master in Food Science. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

Feature

MSc Food Technology

Masters in Food Science

Focus

Engineering, processing, and preservation of foods

The science behind food composition, nutrition, and food chemistry

Career Paths

Industry-based roles like Food Technologist, Product Development Manager, Quality Control Analyst

Research-focused roles such as Food Scientist, Nutritionist, and Lab Researcher

Entrance Requirement

GATE, ICAR, or college-specific exams

Varies, often GRE for international programmes or college-specific exams for domestic programs

Top Colleges in India

CFTRI, IIFPT, ICT Mumbai, and Amity University

IITs, NIFTEM, Delhi University, and Amity University

Core Curriculum

Food Processing, Dairy Technology, Packaging, Food Microbiology, Food Quality Management

Food Chemistry, Nutrition Science, Sensory Evaluation, Functional Foods, Food Toxicology

Skill Development

Strong focus on technical skills in food processing, machinery operation, and quality assurance

Emphasis on analytical, research, and laboratory skills

Industry Demand

High demand in sectors like food processing, FMCG, and production technology

Sought after in research labs, food safety departments, and nutrition companies

Internship Opportunities

Often includes industry-linked internships, in-plant training, and live projects

Research internships and lab-based projects in academic or private research institutions

Research Opportunities

Limited to applied research and product development, with some focus on industrial applications

Extensive opportunities for academic research, publication, and contributions to food science journals

Global Opportunities

More job-focused, with some opportunities in processing industries worldwide

High scope for PhD and research roles in international food research institutes and organisations

Average Salary in India

₹4 - 8 LPA for fresh graduates in quality control, production, and product development roles

₹3 - 7 LPA for research and entry-level scientist roles; higher for research analysts in food safety

Further Studies

Options to pursue specialisations like Food Biotechnology or Dairy Technology

Common pathway for PhD programs in Food Science, Nutrition, and related fields

Jobs and Career Options

A degree in MSc Food Technology opens doors to many job roles across sectors. Here’s an overview of potential career paths and expected salary ranges:

Job Title

Average Salary per Annum

Description

Food Technologist

₹4,00,000 - ₹6,00,000

Involves product testing and development

Quality Assurance Manager

₹5,00,000 - ₹8,00,000

Ensures food safety and compliance

R&D Specialist

₹6,00,000 - ₹9,00,000

Researches new food products and innovations

Nutritionist

₹3,00,000 - ₹5,00,000

Provides dietary guidance based on food science

Regulatory Affairs Specialist

₹6,00,000 - ₹10,00,000

Works with compliance in food-related regulations

Tip: Gain internship experience during your MSc Food Technology programme to improve job prospects.

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Future Scope of MSc Food Technology

With continuous advancements in food science and increased focus on sustainable and nutritious products, MSc Food Technology graduates can expect a growing job market. Some promising trends include:

1. Emerging Fields

 Plant-based foods, nutraceuticals, and functional foods are on the rise.

2. Global Demand

Food technologists are in demand in countries focused on food innovation, like the USA and the UK.

3. Further Education

 You can pursue a PhD in Food Science or specialisation areas like Dairy Technology, adding research and academic roles to your career options.

An MSc in Food Technology offers many opportunities for those passionate about food science and technology. By gaining practical and theoretical knowledge, you’ll position yourself for a rewarding career in one of the most vital sectors globally.

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FAQ on MSc Food Technology

What is MSc Food Technology?

MSc Food Technology is a postgraduate course focused on food processing, preservation, safety, and innovation.

What is the eligibility for MSc Food Technology?

You need a BSc in Food Technology or related fields with at least 50% aggregate marks for most colleges.

What entrance exams are needed for MSc Food Technology?

Common exams include CUET-PG, ICAR AIEEA-PG, GATE (for Food Technology), and other institution-specific tests.

Is work experience required for MSc Food Technology?

No, work experience is typically not required; fresh graduates can apply.

What are the top MSc Food Technology colleges in India?

CFTRI, IIFPT, ICT Mumbai, NIFTEM, and Jadavpur University are some of the top choices.

Can I pursue an MSc Food Technology without entrance exams?

Some private colleges offer direct admission based on merit, though entrance exams are common.

What’s the syllabus for MSc Food Technology?

It includes food chemistry, dairy technology, packaging, food microbiology, and food safety standards.

What is the course fee for MSc Food Technology?

Fees vary, typically ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year, depending on the college.

What career options are there after MSc Food Technology?

Career options include Food Technologist, Quality Analyst, Research Scientist, and Production Manager.

What’s the difference between MSc Food Technology and Master in Food Science?

MSc Food Technology focuses on food processing and safety, while Food Science is research-focused on food chemistry.

What’s the duration of the MSc Food Technology course?

It’s a two-year program divided into four semesters.

What are common jobs after MSc Food Technology in India?

Popular roles include Quality Control Officer, Food Production Manager, and R&D Specialist.

Is there a demand for MSc Food Technology graduates?

Yes, demand is high in FMCG, research institutions, quality control, and food processing industries.

What is the MSc Food Technology entrance exam syllabus?

Exam topics usually cover food chemistry, microbiology, processing principles, and general science.

Can I do a PhD after MSc Food Technology?

Yes, many graduates pursue a PhD for advanced research roles and academic careers.

Is MSc Food Technology a good career choice?

Yes, with an increasing focus on food safety, processing, and sustainability, it offers diverse job opportunities.

Do MSc Food Technology colleges in India offer placements?

Many top colleges provide placement assistance with FMCG, food processing, and research firms.

What skills are essential for MSc Food Technology?

Key skills include analytical thinking, technical expertise in processing, quality management, and research skills.

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