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

Updated on May 14, 2024 12:05 IST
Jasmine Dang Arora

Jasmine Dang AroraDeputy Manager-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.

Latest Updates About Applied Food Studies Course:

The MAH BHMCT CET 2024 exam for admission to the Bachelor of Hotel Management and Catering Technology (BHMCT) course will be conducted on May 24, 2024

Applied Food Studies Course Highlights

Culinary arts 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 Culinary 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.

Applied Food Studies Course 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 

Applied Food Studies Course Entrance Exams 2023

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.

Name of Entrance Exam Registration Details Exam Details
NCHM JEE Feb '24 - May '24 In May 2024
UGAT Apr' 24 In May 2024
CUET Second week of February 2024 15-May-2024 to 31-May 31-2024
JMI Entrance Exam Closed Concluded
IPU CET Closed Concluded

Applied Food Studies Course Syllabus

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

The Culinary Arts syllabus varies from college to college and is also dependent on the degree that is offered to candidates upon completion of the Culinary Arts 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 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

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

FAQs on Applied Food Studies

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.

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 some food related careers?

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

Q. What is the best job in the 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.

Q. How to 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.

Q. Which are some colleges that offer courses related to Food industry?

A. Some of the popular colleges that offer courses related to Food industry are listed below:

For the detailed list of institutes, click here

Popular Applied Food Studies Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Applied Food Studies Colleges in India. Learn more about these Applied Food Studies colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.

Popular Private Applied Food Studies Colleges in India

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

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Applied Food Studies. Students interested in pursuing a career on Applied Food Studies, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

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