Applied Food Studies Course: Admission 2024, Syllabus, Entrance Exams, Salary, Job Profiles, Recruiters

Updated on Dec 13, 2024 05:04 IST
Pragati Singh

Pragati SinghSenior Executive - Content

A multidisciplinary area known as Applied Food Studies is related to the production, consumption, cultural significance, nutritional value, and social influence of food. To study the complex relations that exist between food and individuals, communities, and societies, this field incorporates knowledge from a variety of disciplines, including public health, culinary arts, sociology, anthropology, and nutrition.

Through the use of an interdisciplinary approach, people can approach difficult food-related issues from a variety of angles and help to create a food environment that is more culturally rich, nutritious, and sustainable. Students can study Applied Food Studies at undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate levels. The average fees for Applied Food Studies range between INR 20,000 and INR 2 lakh.  Students need to appear in entrance exams like NCHM JEE, CT SET,  Oberoi STEP, MAKAUT, etc.

People can pursue a variety of job opportunities in the food and associated industries after earning a degree or finishing coursework in Applied Food Studies. Some of the job profiles at which the graduates of Applied Food Studies can find work are Chef, Nutritionist, Dietitian, Food Scientist, and so on. The average salary of these positions ranges between INR 4 LPA to INR 6 LPA.

Applied Food Studies Course Highlights

Applied Food Studies courses are educational programmes that focus on the art and science of cooking and preparing food. These courses are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to work in various aspects of the culinary industry, such as restaurants, hotels, catering services, and more. 

Candidates can check the table below to learn more about the key points of the Applied Food Studies. course

Particulars

Details

Course Level

UG, PG, Diploma and Certificate

Course Duration

2-3 years 

Course Fees

INR 20,000 - INR 3 Lakh

Admission Criteria

Merit-Based/Entrance Exams

Entrance Exams

NCHMCT JEEUGATIHM Aurangabad Entrance ExamMAH HM CETetc.

Job Profiles

Chef, Food Stylist, Catering Supervisor/Manager, Catering Officer, etc.

Average Salary

INR 3.5 LPA - INR 7 LPA

Top Recruiters

The Taj Group of Hotels, Marriott International, Inc., Hyatt Hotels, ITC Group of Hotels, etc.

All About Applied Food Studies Course

A course in applied food studies combines theoretical knowledge with real-world application to offer a comprehensive understanding of food. It emphasizes sustainability, cultural sensitivity, and ethical considerations in the subject of food studies, preparing students for a wide range of vocations in the food sector.

A bachelor's or master's degree in applied food studies is frequently provided, though the length of the course can vary. A mix of lectures, practical sessions, internships, and research projects usually make up the structure. Click to read the Culinary Arts Course.

Why Study an Applied Food Studies Course?

Applied Food Studies is a growing field and a course in this can help students contribute to positive changes in food systems, promoting sustainability and health.

  • Broad Skill Set: Acquire a flexible skill set in nutrition, culinary arts, and food-related studies.
  • Industry Relevance: Gain expertise applicable to a variety of food industry vocations.
  • Helps in Understanding Culture: Gain an understanding of culture by investigating the social, cultural, and historical facets of food.
  • Prospects for Entrepreneurship: Acquire knowledge about food entrepreneurship and business within the culinary industry.
  • Nutrition and Well-Being Focus: Recognize how nutrition, diet, and health are related. Read Hotel Management Career: Paths, Opportunities & Earnings.

Q:   What is the scope in Food industry?

A:

Food is an important ingredient to a healthy and happy life,  and now it offers some excellent career avenues as well. The food industry is growing continuously and also offers several fantastic job opportunities. People have a strong enthusiasm for food and are always searching for novel and intriguing options, whether they are cooking or dining. Eating out, ordering takeout, and snacking on ready-to-eat foods are all getting more and more common these days.

Innovative food production and catering can be a fantastic career choice for you if you enjoy working with people and cooking. The success of any party, marriage, or celebration, for that matter, depends on the food, which has improved the opportunities for employment in the food production and catering industries. Read Career After Catering.

Applied Food Studies Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for the Hospitality industry vary depending on the level of the programme (e.g., certificate, diploma, undergraduate, or graduate degree) and the specific educational institution offering the programme.

However, there are some common eligibility criteria that candidates can expect to encounter when applying for such programmes. Here are the typical Applied Food Studies eligibility criteria:

Course Level

Eligibility Criteria

UG

Passed Class 12

PG

Passed Bachelor's degree or its equivalent 

Q:   What is the best job in Food industry? Why?

A:

Applied Food Studies refers to an interdisciplinary area that studies the cultural, social, economic, and environmental aspects of food. Highlights of the courses in an Applied Food Studies programme can change according to the institution's unique curriculum and objectives. Still, the following are some typical highlights that you should look for in a programme like this:

  • Executive Chef or Head Chef: Creative expression in menu planning, leadership role.
  • Food Scientist or Technologist: Focus on food innovation and improvement, science-oriented.
  • Nutritionist or Dietitian: Passion for health and wellness, designing diet plans.
  • Food Entrepreneur: Entrepreneurial spirit, bringing unique culinary ideas to market.
  • Sustainability Consultant: Environmental concerns, implementing eco-friendly practices. Read Hotel Management Courses After 12th.

Applied Food Studies Admission Process

Here are a few steps you can follow to gain admission to the Applied Food Studies course:

Application Process: 

  • Application Process: Candidates can log in to the college's online portal and submit their applications, transcripts, test scores, and other required documents. Application fees will be applicable depending on the college.

  • Take Exam: Candidates must prepare for the exams, as they could be university-specific or state-specific. Some colleges accept exams such as CUET as well.
  • Counseling and Seat Allocation: If the candidates clear the exams then they are called for further counseling and seat allocation rounds based on their scores.

Applied Food Studies Degree Related Information:

CUET vs Board Exams: Key Differences, Syllabus, and Preparation Tips

 

 

 

Q:   How do I get admission to Applied Food Study courses?

A:

There are several advantages to studying Applied Food Studies outside of the kitchen. Students have a comprehensive grasp of this vital component of human life by exploring the cultural, nutritional, and environmental aspects of food. The curriculum equips students with useful culinary skills and prepares them for a variety of career paths, including food entrepreneurship, culinary arts, and research. 

  • Chose University/College: The first step is to search for colleges or universities which are offering the courses as desired. Check the fees, the seats offered, eligibility criteria which is set for the course.
  • Apply for Course: Proceed to apply for admission after getting to know the university offering the programme. Fill up the details as required and pay the application fee. The application forms are available for a limited period of time so the candidate is advised to know the details way in advance.
  • Mode of Admission: Universities and Colleges will either conduct entrance exams for admission or offer admission through merit. For postgraduate courses, the candidate will have to appear for an entrance exam.
  • Results: Selected and qualified candidates make the merit list. The student has to get the desired rank and percentage, to be eligible for admission.
  • Counselling: The candidate will have to appear for the counselling session conducted at the university to book their seat, submit their documents and pay the fees to seal admission.

Applied Food Studies Entrance Exams 2025

In India, several entrance exams are conducted for admission to Hospitality courses at various levels, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees as well as diploma and certificate courses. These exams are used by different institutions across the country for their respective admission processes.

Most of the popular colleges offer admission to aspirants in Applied Food Study courses either based on merit or an entrance exam. Some popular entrance exams for admission to Applied Food Study courses are given below. Also see Hotel Management Entrance Exams in India.

Exam Name Registration Dates Exam Schedule
NCHMCT JEE 2025 May'25 (Tentative) NCHMCT JEE Schedule
CUET 2025 May'25 (Tentative) CUET Schedule
UGAT 2025 January'25 (Tentative) UGAT Schedule
MAH HM CET 2025 March 28, 2025 (Tentative) MAH HM CET Schedule
Christ University Entrance Test 2025 January'25 (Tentative) Christ University Entrance Test Schedule

Note: The information is sourced from official sites and may vary.

Relevant Links for Food Science Degree Entry Requirements:

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Counselling Start

TENTATIVE

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Result

TENTATIVE

21 Feb ' 25

SAT Registration Deadline for March Test

25 Feb ' 25

SAT Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation, a...

16 Dec ' 24 - 15 Feb ' 25

NCHMCT JEE 2025 registration

17 Feb ' 25 - 20 Feb ' 25

NCHMCT JEE 2025 Application Correction Window

To Be Notified:

MAH MHMCT CET 2025 admit card

TENTATIVE

To Be Notified:

MAH MHMCT CET 2025 Answer Key

TENTATIVE

Q:   What are the various exams accepted for admission to Food Science and Applied Food Studies courses?

A:

Hi, there are no specific exams for Applied Food Studies and Food Science, but you can check general hospitality exams as shown below:

Exam NameRegistration DatesExam Schedule
NCHMCT JEE

May'25

NCHMCT JEE Schedule

UGAT

May'25

UGAT Schedule

MAH HM CET 

March 28, 2025 (Tentative)

MAH HM CET Schedule

Christ Univesity NA

UGAT8 University Entrance Test Schedule

Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam.

Applied Food Studies Course Syllabus

Applied Food Studies course teaches students how to properly and elegantly prepare, cook, and present food. The course also instills technical and administrative abilities that will help students flourish in the culinary sector of the hospitality business.

The Applied Food Studies syllabus varies from college to college and is also dependent on the degree that is offered to candidates upon completion of the Applied Food Studies course. Some of the common topics that are taught in a Culinary Arts syllabus that is offered are as follows.

Semester 1

Principles of Food Production

Culinary Skills

Introduction to Food Studies

Introduction to Nutrition

Semester 2

Principles of Food Production

Food Science

Food History and Culture

Introduction to Food Policy and Ethics

Semester 3

Nutrition and Health

Food Writing and Media

Indian Ethnic Culinary Arts 

Food Entrepreneurship Basics

Semester 4

Advanced Culinary Techniques

Food Sustainability

Food and Identity

Research Methods in Food Studies

Semester 5

Food Innovation and Technology

Food Policy

Advanced Food Production

Fieldwork/Internship 

Semester 6

Advanced Nutrition

Food Research Project

Food Marketing and Branding

Project Research (Culinary Based)

Semester 7

Global Food Systems Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Food
Capstone Project Proposal Elective Course

Semester 8

Professional Development in Food Industry Final Internship

Applied Food Studies Syllabus in India Related Information:

How many domain subjects are compulsory in CUET UG 2025?

 

Q:   Can I become a dietician or nutritionist with a B.Sc. Food technology degree?

A:
Yes, you can become a dietician or a nutritionist with a B.Sc. Food Technology degree, but it may require some additional qualifications and training. B.Sc. Food Technology is a degree programme that focuses on food Science, food processing, and food production. While it may cover some aspects of nutrition, it does not provide the comprehensive knowledge and training needed to become a registered dietician or nutritionist. To become a registered dietician or nutritionist, you typically need to complete a Bachelor's or master's degree programme in Nutrition and Dietetics or a related field, which includes coursework in human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, food Science, nutrition, and dietetics. After completing the degree programme, you may also need to complete a supervised practice programme and pass a national exam to become a registered dietician or nutritionist.

Q:   What are the job profiles in the Food and Beverage industry?

A:

Candidates after completing the course are hired by top hotel and restaurant chains to cater to the variety of cuisines and customers' demands. They can pursue job profiles like:

Job Profile

Average Annual Salary (in INR)

Food and Beverage Manager

INR 10 LPA-20 LPA 

Restaurant Manager

INR 12 LPA-15 LPA 

Food and Beverage Supervisor

INR 10 LPA-15 LPA 

Waiter/Waitress

INR 4 LPA-8 LPA 

Bartender

INR 3 LPA-5 LPA 

Chef

INR 10 LPA-20 LPA 

Food Technologist

INR 10 LPA-18 LPA 

Applied Food Studies Colleges

As the Applied Food Studies course is not offered by many colleges so there is only one college in record that is offering this course, as shown in the table below:

College Tuition Fees
NA

Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.

5.0
5.0

Q:   Which are the various colleges that offer courses related to Food industry?

Popular Private Applied Food Studies Colleges in India

5.0
5.0

Applied Food Studies Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

Hospitality has gained significant popularity in India in recent years, and the career scope for Applied Food Studies is becoming promising, it's important to note that the industry can be highly competitive and physically demanding. Success in Hospitality courses often requires dedication, continuous learning, and the ability to adapt to changing trends and consumer preferences. To pursue a Food industry career in India, aspirants need to develop some skills.

Applied Food Studies Average Salary

After completing a course in Applied Food Studies, aspirants can join hotels, restaurants, hospitals, educational institutes, railways as well as the airline industry. Some job profiles that candidates can pursue after securing a degree/diploma in the field are listed below:  

Job Profiles

Description

Average Salary (in INR)

Chef

They are responsible for preparing meals, training kitchen staff, ordering supplies, planning menus, managing the kitchen budget, enforcing health and safety regulations and preserving food quality

7 LPA

Food Stylist

In such a job profile one is responsible for preparing and presenting food in such a manner that it looks appealing to customers

3.5 LPA

Food Blogger

In such a job profile, one is responsible for writing articles related to food industry.

3.5 LPA

Dietician

Dieticians offer individualised nutritional guidance and handle health concerns with patients and consumers.

4.1 LPA

Food Scientist

A food scientist's job is to investigate, create, and test various foods and ingredients to ensure that they are safe for human consumption.

4.8 LPA

Note- The above information about average salary has been taken from external sources.

Applied Food Studies Top Recruiters

The Food industry in India offers various job opportunities with a wide range of employers, including restaurants, hotels, catering companies, food production companies, and more. Here are some top recruiters for Applied Food Studies professionals in India:

Top Recruiters

The Taj Group of Hotels

Marriott International, Inc.

Hyatt Hotels

ITC Group of Hotels

The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts

Accor Hotels

Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts Group

Hilton Worldwide

Q:   What jobs would you qualify for with a degree in Applied Food Studies?

A:

Graduates of Applied Food Studies programmes can work in a variety of sectors within the larger food and culinary industry. Those having a background in applied food studies may choose to work in the following industries:

  • Restaurants and Hospitality: Chef, Sous Chef, Kitchen Manager, and Restaurant Manager are some of the positions available here. Responibilities include menu planning, food preparation, and kitchen management.
  • Catering & Food Service: Job roles include Food Service Manager, Event Chefs, and Catering Manager. Responsibilities include managing food service operations and organising catering services. Read How to Become a Chef?
  • Media Coverage of Food Writing: Job roles include Food Journalist, Food Editor, Food Writer, and Blogger. Responsibilities include content creation about food, recipes, and culinary adventures.
  • Health and Nutrition: Job roles include Dietitian, nutritionist, and wellness consultant. Responsibilities include wellness programmes and dietary advice.

Q:   What are the career prospects in Food industry?

A:

 After completing courses related to the Food industry, aspirants can join hotels, restaurants, hospitals, educational institutes, railways as well as the airline industry. Some job profiles that aspirants can pursue after securing a degree/diploma in the field are listed below:  

Job Profiles

Description

Average Salary (in INR)

Chef

They are responsible for preparing meals, training kitchen staff, ordering supplies, planning menus, managing the kitchen budget, enforcing health and safety regulations and preserving food quality

7 LPA

Food Stylist

In such a job profile one is responsible for preparing and presenting food in such a manner that it looks appealing to customers

3.5 LPA

Catering Supervisor/Manager

In such a job profile, one is responsible for planning, administering and supervising the catering operations as well as services of an organisation

3.5 LPA

Catering Officer

One is responsible for cutting, serving and presenting food as well as drinks at an event

4.1 LPA

Chocolatier

A chocolatier is a skilled artisan or professional who specializes in the creation of chocolate confections, including chocolates, truffles, pralines, bonbons, and various other chocolate-based treats

4.8 LPA

Applied Food Studies FAQs

Here are some common questions related to the course:

Q:   What are some job profiles related to Food Industry?

A:

The graduates of Food Industry courses can find employment at the below job profiles:

  • Food Photographer: Food photographers work with food stylists to create beautiful and enticing images of food for magazines, cookbooks, restaurant promotional materials, and websites.
  • Food Critic: A food critic or a restaurant critic samples and reviews food. He/she visits different restaurants, orders a variety of dishes, and writes about their experience.
  • Food Blogger: Food blogs are usually written by people who are passionate about the variety of recipes and cooking. They share every little thing related to recipes with their readers on their blog. 
  • Food Journalist: Food journalism is about lifestyle, culture, cooking, and food. Food journalists write not only about the food they experience but also about the nutritional Science behind it. A good food journalist is well acquainted with the food industry and the restaurant business.
  • Food Historian: Food history is a field that talks about the cultural, economic, environmental, and social impacts of history, food, and human nutrition.

Popular Applied Food Studies UG Courses

Following are the most popular Applied Food Studies UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

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Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered a month ago

Hi, there are no specific exams for Applied Food Studies and Food Science, but you can check general hospitality exams as shown below:

Exam NameRegistration DatesExam Schedule
NCHMCT JEE

May'25

NCHMCT JEE Schedule

UGAT

May'25

UGAT Schedule

MAH HM CET 

March 28, 2025 (Tentative)

MAH HM CET Schedule

Christ Univesity NA

UGAT8 University Entrance Test Schedule

Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam.

V

Vipra Tiwari

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a month ago

There are several advantages to studying Applied Food Studies outside of the kitchen. Students have a comprehensive grasp of this vital component of human life by exploring the cultural, nutritional, and environmental aspects of food. The curriculum equips students with useful culinary skills and pr

...more

V

Vipra Pandey

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a month ago

Graduates of Applied Food Studies programmes can work in a variety of sectors within the larger food and culinary industry. Those having a background in applied food studies may choose to work in the following industries:

  • Restaurants and Hospitality: Chef, Sous Chef, Kitchen Manager, and Restaurant M

...more

M

Mani Shukla

Beginner-Level 5