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Food Science Courses

Food science courses can help you learn about food safety, nutrition, sensory evaluation, and food processing techniques. You can build skills in recipe formulation, quality control, and understanding food chemistry. Many courses introduce tools like statistical software for analyzing taste tests, laboratory equipment for testing food properties, and food modeling software to predict shelf life, allowing you to apply these skills in real-world food production and innovation.


Popular Food Science Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    S

    Stanford University

    Stanford Introduction to Food and Health

    Skills you'll gain: Cooking, Meal Planning And Preparation, Health Promotion, Health Education, Nutrition and Diet, Public Health, Behavior Management, Cultural Diversity, Health Informatics, Chronic Diseases

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    34K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Understanding Food Regulations & Food Labeling

    Skills you'll gain: Good Manufacturing Practices, Nutrition and Diet, Regulatory Affairs, Safety Standards

    4.2
    Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
    ·
    11 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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    T

    The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

    The Science of Gastronomy

    Skills you'll gain: Cooking, Food and Beverage, Nutrition and Diet, Meal Planning And Preparation, Biochemistry, Aesthetics, Color Theory, Chemistry, Physiology, Physics, Psychology

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
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    787 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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    U

    Università Bocconi

    Food & Beverage Management

    Skills you'll gain: Food and Beverage, Hospitality Management, Restaurant Management, Product Quality (QA/QC), Global Marketing, Market Dynamics, Business Strategy, Consumer Behaviour, Value Propositions, Competitive Analysis, Brand Management, Growth Strategies, Marketing

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    5K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Sustainable Food Systems

    Skills you'll gain: Systems Thinking, Sustainable Systems, Sustainable Development, Food and Beverage, Nutrition and Diet, Environmental Issue, Economics, Energy and Utilities, Environment, Production Process, Water Resources, Land Management, Culture, Consumer Behaviour

    4.4
    Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
    ·
    36 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    O

    Olay

    Introduction to Cosmetic Science and Ingredients

    Skills you'll gain: Laboratory Experience, Quality Control, Product Development, Packaging and Labeling, Quality Assurance, Laboratory Equipment, Prototyping, Product Quality (QA/QC), New Product Development, Laboratory Procedures, Statistical Process Controls, Product Design, Good Manufacturing Practices, Laboratory Testing, Quality Management, Product Testing, Chemistry, Safety Standards, Personal Care, Microbiology

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    528 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

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    P

    Princeton University

    Food Ethics

    Skills you'll gain: Health Disparities, Food and Beverage, Social Justice, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Nutrition and Diet, Sustainability Standards, International Relations, Environmental Issue, Policy Analysis, Sustainable Development, Cultural Diversity

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    80 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    R

    Real Madrid Graduate School Universidad Europea

    Sports Nutrition and Training: Innovation Assets

    Skills you'll gain: Leadership, Collaboration, Physical Stamina, Performance Analysis, Sports Medicine, Nutrition and Diet, Athletic Training, Exercise Science, Injury Prevention, Coaching, Nutrition Education, Innovation, Automation, AI Personalization, Teamwork, Performance Reporting, Technology Solutions, Data Management, Health Technology, Communication

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California, Davis

    Essentials of Sensory Science

    Skills you'll gain: Experimentation, Product Testing, Laboratory Testing, Laboratory Experience, Food and Beverage, Consumer Behaviour, Scientific Methods, Systems Of Measurement, Case Studies, Quality Assurance, Physiology, Research Design, Usability Testing, Science and Research, Data Collection, Statistical Analysis, Nutrition and Diet, Human Factors, Anatomy, Product Development

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
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    68 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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    S

    Stanford University

    Child Nutrition and Cooking

    Skills you'll gain: Nutrition Education, Cooking, Meal Planning And Preparation, Nutrition and Diet, Food Safety and Sanitation, Child Health, Working With Children, Food Quality Assurance And Control, Parent Communication

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    10K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    S

    Stanford University

    Rebuilding Our Relationship with Food

    Skills you'll gain: Cultural Diversity, Compassion, Food and Beverage, Nutrition and Diet, Mindfulness, Behavioral Health, Self-Awareness, Empowerment, Decision Making

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    355 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Navigating U.S. Food Regulations: Safety and Enforcement

    Skills you'll gain: Good Manufacturing Practices, Legal Risk, Case Studies

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular food science courses

  • Stanford Introduction to Food and Health: Stanford University
  • Understanding Food Regulations & Food Labeling: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • The Science of Gastronomy: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
  • Food & Beverage Management: Università Bocconi
  • Sustainable Food Systems: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • Introduction to Cosmetic Science and Ingredients: Olay
  • Food Ethics: Princeton University
  • Sports Nutrition and Training: Innovation Assets: Real Madrid Graduate School Universidad Europea
  • Essentials of Sensory Science: University of California, Davis
  • Child Nutrition and Cooking: Stanford University

Frequently Asked Questions about Food Science

An education in food science covers scientific principles relating to the preparation, consumption, enjoyment, sustainability, and health components of human sustenance. Courses reveal how our physiological makeup applies to cooked food, geographical and cultural influences on food, and rationales behind food preparation. Food Science also covers public health crises, such as obesity and Type 2 Diabetes, and their link to unhealthful eating.

Food Science is becoming increasingly important to learn as the consumption of heavily processed foods proliferates, and as culture shifts away from the preparation of food at home. It’s crucial that learners interested in the field gain expertise in the prevention of diet-related diseases, the ability to create meals based on scientific principles, and methodologies related to sustainable food production. ‎

Food science is the study of the physical, biological, and chemical makeup of food, as well as the concepts underlying food processing and preservation. It plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety, enhancing nutritional value, and improving food quality. Understanding food science helps address global challenges such as food security, sustainability, and health. By applying scientific principles, food scientists can innovate and create healthier food products, which is increasingly important in today's health-conscious society.‎

A degree in food science can open doors to various career paths. Common job roles include food technologist, quality assurance manager, food safety inspector, and research scientist. Additionally, positions in regulatory affairs, product development, and sensory analysis are also available. These roles often involve working with food manufacturers, government agencies, and research institutions, contributing to the advancement of food safety and innovation.‎

To thrive in food science, you'll need a blend of technical and soft skills. Key technical skills include knowledge of microbiology, chemistry, and food processing techniques. Familiarity with food safety regulations and quality control measures is also essential. On the soft skills side, critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital for collaborating with teams and presenting findings. Additionally, a passion for food and sustainability can drive your success in this field.‎

There are numerous online options for studying food science. Some of the best courses focus on food safety, nutrition, and food technology. Look for programs that offer hands-on projects and real-world applications. While specific food science courses may vary, many platforms provide comprehensive learning experiences that cater to different interests and career goals. Exploring these options can help you find the right fit for your educational journey.‎

Yes. You can start learning food science on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many food science courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in food science, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning food science can be approached through a combination of online courses, textbooks, and hands-on experiences. Start by enrolling in foundational courses that cover essential topics. Supplement your learning with relevant literature and research articles. Additionally, seeking internships or volunteer opportunities in food-related organizations can provide practical experience and deepen your understanding of the field.‎

Food science courses typically cover a range of topics, including food chemistry, microbiology, nutrition, food processing, and safety regulations. You may also explore sensory evaluation, food product development, and the impact of food on health. These subjects provide a comprehensive understanding of how food is produced, processed, and consumed, equipping you with the knowledge needed to address industry challenges.‎

For training and upskilling employees in the food industry, look for courses that focus on practical applications and industry standards. Programs that cover food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance are particularly beneficial. Additionally, courses that emphasize current trends in food technology and sustainability can help employees stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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