Food Science

A food science worker using a commercial Hobart mixer in a clean processing lab, wearing protective gloves and a Hormel Foods lab coat.

Explore food science at Riverland

Food science is where science, agriculture, and technology come together to keep the food we eat safe, high quality, and nutritious. 星空无限传媒 is a national leader in food and agriculture, so trained food science professionals are in steady demand close to home. Whether you want to work in quality assurance, product development, food safety, or lab testing, Riverland has a pathway to get you there.

Choose your pathway

Three distinct options, whether you want a fast start, a hands-on technical career, or a transfer degree.

Certificate · 16 credits

A short, focused start. Learn the basics of food chemistry, safety, microbiology, and processing through hands-on lab work. Great as an entry point or an add-on to another major, and it builds toward the Food Science Technology A.S.

A.S. Degree · 60 credits

The most hands-on, career-focused option. Study food chemistry, microbiology, processing, quality control, safety, and lab techniques used across the industry. Prepares you for quality-control, sanitation, and lab-tech roles, or transfer to a four-year program.

A.A. Degree · 60 credits · transfer

A transfer-focused degree pairing strong science and general education with foundational food science. Best if you plan to earn a bachelor’s in food science, nutrition, agricultural science, or biology.

Career opportunities

星空无限传媒’s strong food and agriculture industry creates steady opportunities in roles such as:

  • Quality assurance and quality control
  • Food safety and sanitation
  • Food production and processing
  • Product development and sensory testing
  • Food chemistry and microbiology labs

Employers value graduates who understand the science behind food safety, nutrition, processing, and quality, all skills taught in Riverland’s programs.