MSc Food and Nutrition Course: Admission 2024, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Jul 30, 2024 06:13 IST
Akansha Bisht

Akansha BishtContent Writer

MSc in Food and Nutrition is a 2-year postgraduate degree program mainly focused on three areas of specialization i.e., Clinical Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, and Food Science and Processing. Students get an in-depth knowledge of food science to understand the science of food safety and nutrition during the program.

MSc Food and Nutrition admission requires a bachelor’s degree in Home Science, Food Technology, Biochemistry, Dietetics & Nutrition, Food and Nutrition, or any equivalent discipline with a minimum 55% aggregate score. MSc Food and Nutrition admissions are based on entrance exams such as CUET-PG, ICAR AIEEA, CPGET, AP PGCET, etc.

Banaras Hindu University, Delhi University, VIT Vellore, Calcutta University, Amity University, etc., are among the top MSc Food and Nutrition colleges in India. The average course fee ranges between INR 700 to INR 6.32 Lakh. Candidates can also go for PGDM courses in Food and Nutrition under several specializations like Post Graduate Diploma in Dietetics & Public Health Nutrition, Post Graduate Diploma in Health and Social Gerontology, etc.

MSc in Food and Nutrition students can seek career opportunities in fields like Food Industry, Healthcare, Research, Educational Institutions, etc. Some top job profiles include Quality Control Manager, Food Scientist, Food Technologist, Nutritionist, etc. The average salary of a Nutritionist in India is INR 3.5 LPA. Interested candidates can continue reading the article to get more details around MSc in Food and Nutrition course.

Table of Contents
  1. MSc Food and Nutrition Details: Highlights
  2. All About MSc Food and Nutrition
    • 2.1 Why Study MSc Food and Nutrition?
  3. MSc Food and Nutrition Eligibility Criteria
  4. MSc Food and Nutrition Entrance Exams 2024
  5. MSc Food and Nutrition Syllabus 2024
    • 5.1 MSc Food and Nutrition Specializations
  6. Best MSc Food and Nutrition Colleges in India
    • 6.1 Best Government MSc Food and Nutrition Colleges in India
    • 6.2 Best Private MSc Food and Nutrition Colleges in India
  7. MSc Food and Nutrition Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
    • 7.1 MSc Food and Nutrition Top Recruiters
  8. MSc Food and Nutrition Courses Abroad for Indian Students
  9. MSc Food and Nutrition FAQs

MSc Food and Nutrition Details: Highlights

MSc in Food Science and Nutrition guides the students to process awareness towards the necessary knowledge of food compositions, the quality, and safety of food, the ability of metabolism relationships, and the use of nutrients in food by the human body. Here are some key highlights of Nutrition MSc courses in the table below:

Parameters

Course Details

MSc Food and Nutrition Course Level

Postgraduate

MSc Food and Nutrition Course Duration

2 Years

MSc Food and Nutrition Course Fee

INR 700 to INR 6.32 Lakh

MSc Food and Nutrition Course Eligibility

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with a 55% minimum aggregate score.

MSc Food and Nutrition Course Exam

CUET-PG, ICAR AIEEA, CPGET, etc.

MSc Food and Nutrition Colleges in India

BHU, DU, VIT Vellore, Calcutta University, etc.

MSc Food and Nutrition Job Profiles

Quality Control Manager, Food Scientist, Food Technologist, Nutritionist, etc.

MSc Food and Nutrition Top Recruiters

Food Industry, Healthcare, Research Centers, Educational Institutions, etc.

MSc Food and Nutrition Average Salary

INR 3.5 LPA

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

MSc Food and Nutrition Topics you may be interested in:

All about Food Production Courses

Q:   What is the M.Sc Food and Nutrition course all about?

A:

MSc Food and Nutrition is a 2-year PG degree programme that addresses the topics of food development and nutrition. This course aims to prepare students for careers in food technology, science, production management, quality control, and other related fields.

Q:   Is pursuing MSc in Food and Nutrition in India expensive?

A:

No, it can be observed that studying MSc Food and Nutriton in India can be quite cheap as most of the colleges have an average tuition fee of less than INR  1 lakh:

Fee RangeNo. of CollegesPopular Colleges
< INR 1 lakh103 collegesBHU, Calcutta University, BBAU, etc.
INR 1-2 lakh42 collegesMGU, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, BBAU, etc.
INR 2-3 lakh18 collegesCU, Andhra University, Jamia Hamdard, etc.
INR 3-5 lakh11 collegesVIT Vellore, Amity University, LPU, etc.
> INR 5 lakh3 collegesBirla Institute of Technology, Amity University, National Institute of Management and Research Studies

All About MSc Food and Nutrition

The 2-year undergraduate MSc in Food Science and Nutrition offers a thorough understanding of food compositions, food safety and quality, metabolism relationships, how the body uses nutrients in food, and a sophisticated grasp of the impact of exercise. Students can learn how to handle responsibilities and manage ideas by pursuing an M.Sc. in Food Science and Nutrition.

Students can enroll in this MSc Food Science and Nutrition program to expand their learning of management principles and if they are committed to serving society by providing the best food management services possible.

Why Study MSc Food and Nutrition?

Food is undoubtedly a significant part of every living being’s life, similar to water. In this section, we’ll look at how obtaining a degree related to Food can benefit students in the long term.

  • Higher Job Security: With the increasing demand for healthy lifestyles among people and growing food industries worldwide, graduates can ensure stable jobs in the health and food industries.
  • Competitive Salary: When the demand is greater for goods or services, prices automatically rise, which means professionals can get decent pay in their jobs as the industries and demands are growing at a faster pace.
  • Career Diversity: There are numerous career paths for graduates after an MSc in Food and Nutrition, including Teaching, Research and Development, Sales, Manufacturing, or Healthcare.

Students also liked topics on MSc in Food and Nutrition:

CUET PG Course List; Know About Various Courses

Q:   What are the emerging trends in Food industry in 2025?

A:

The latest trends in the food industry indicate a shift toward more personalized and sustainable eating options. These consist of customized nutrition, local foods, nutraceuticals, and substitute protein sources. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the speed at which food industry 4.0 technologies were adopted across the food value chain, as well as the improvement of food quality.

Emerging Trends in the Food Industry
Alternative ProteinsRestaurant Digitization
NutraceuticalsDigital Food Management
E-commerceFood Waste Reduction
Food Safety & TransparencyRobotics
Personalized Nutrition3D Food Printers

Q:   Can I become a Food Scientist after MSc Food and Nutrition?

A:

A Food Scientist's role is to research, test, and develop ingredients and edibles that are safe to consume for living beings and the environment. You can become a Food Scientist after completing your MSc in Food and Nutrition and work for either a food production company or research center.

MSc Food and Nutrition Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for admission to an MSc in Food and Nutrition course can vary depending on the colleges’ requirements. However, here’s a general idea of eligibility criteria for candidates’ reference:

  • A bachelor’s degree in Home Science, Food Technology, Biochemistry, Dietetics & Nutrition, or any equivalent discipline.
  • A minimum of 50% aggregate score from a recognized university.

Q:   Can I pursue M.Sc. in food and nutrition after doing B.A. in Home Science?

A:

Hi, the criteria for doing an MSc in food and nutrition is candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree from recognized university in Home Science, Nutrition, Dietetics, Food Science, Biology, Microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, Life Sciences, BNYS (Naturopathy), BAMS or PG Diploma in Dietetics with a minimum of 50% marks in Aggregate. If you didn't have the Science stream in your Class 12, you cannot opt for MSc in food and nutrition courses.

Q:   What is the minimum qualification required for Nutritionist?

A:

Students who want to work as Nutritionists after Class 12 can pursue an MSc and BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics. Clinical nutrition, public health nutrition, food Science and technology, and sports nutrition are the four main areas of specialisation in the MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics.

MSc Food and Nutrition Entrance Exams 2024

MSc in Food and Nutrition admissions are majorly based on entrance exams conducted at national, state, and university levels. In this section, candidates can find some popular entrance exams for MSc Food and Nutrition courses in the table below:

Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Schedule

CUET-PG

March’25

CUET-PG Schedule

ICAR AIEEA

June’25

ICAR AIEEA Schedule

CPGET

July’25

CPGET Schedule

AP PGCET

May’25

AP PGCET Schedule

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

Quick Links relevant to MSc Food and Nutrition:

CUET 2025 Syllabus: Download Subject Wise PDF for Commerce, Science & Arts

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates

02 Jan '25 -

01 Feb '25

CUET PG 2025 Application Process

ONGOING

10 Nov '24 -

08 Apr '25

KIITEE 2025 application form phase 1

ONGOING

Jan '25

TIFR GS Final Answer

TENTATIVE

02 Feb '25

IIT JAM 2025 Exam Day

Feb '25

IIT JAM 2025 Response Sheet

TENTATIVE

Feb '25

IIT JAM 2025 Provisional Answer Key

TENTATIVE

Feb '25

IIT JAM 2025 Answer Key Objection Window

TENTATIVE
DatesPast Exam Dates

02 Jan '25

CUET PG 2025 Exam Notification

14 Dec '24

TIFR GS 2025 Provisional Answer Key

08 Dec '24

TIFR GS 2025 Exam

Q:   How many subjects can be opted in CUET PG while filling the application form?

A:

CUET PG 2025 examination is expected to be scheduled in the month of April, 2025. Aspirants preparing for the CUET PG exam will be able to fill the online application form in the month January 2025. While filling up the CUET PG online application form, test taker can select only one subject in one slot of the examination day. However, from the previous year academic year, they were able to choose a maximum of 20 test paper codes in all.

Before choosing the multiple subjects for the examination, candidates are advised to check the minimal education eligibility criteria for the particular course candidate has applied for. Also check the university specific subject criteria for the subject a candidate wants to appear for.

Q:   How can I increase the chances of qualifying ICAR AIEEA PG exam?

A:

There are various strategies which can increase the chances of qualifying. One of the most remarkable practice which produces good result is solve previous year ICAR AIEEA PG question paper

It will help students to compose their strategy of question solving in less time and help to understand the trend of the questions. Since the syllabus remains same so some times even same questions are repeated in the exam which helps students to take an edge over others. 

MSc Food and Nutrition Syllabus 2024

The MSc Food and Nutrition syllabus may vary depending on the course specialization a student chooses or the college. However, the major subjects remain the same. Candidates can find the MSc Food and Nutrition Delhi University syllabus to get an idea of the MSc Food and Nutrition course curriculum they can expect during the program:

MSc Food and Nutrition Subjects Semester I

Research Methods

Principles of Food Science

Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry and Techniques-I

Human Physiology

MSc Food and Nutrition Subjects Semester II

Statistics and Computer Application

Advanced Human Nutrition – I

Food Microbiology and Food Safety

Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry and Techniques–II

MSc Food and Nutrition Subjects Semester III

Advanced Human Nutrition- II

Integrated practical

Clinical Nutrition

Internship

MSc Food and Nutrition Subjects Semester IV          

Dissertation II /Experiential Learning Project

-

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

MSc Food and Nutrition Specializations

MSc in Food and Nutrition is itself a specialization that comes under the Department of Home Science. Candidates can also opt for PG specialization courses related to MSc Food and Nutrition. Here are some equivalent options:

MSc Food and Nutrition Specializations

Human Development & Childhood Studies

Resource Management & Design Application

Development Communication & Extension

Fabric & Apparel Science

Food Technology

Food Science and Technology

Nutrition and Dietetics

Chemistry and Analysis of Foods, Drugs and Water

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

Suggested MSc Food and Nutrition readings:

CUET PG 2024 Question Paper Analysis All Subjects

Popular Specializations

Q:   What are the main MSc Food and Nutrition subjects?

A:

The MSc in Food Science and Nutrition syllabus is divided into 4 equal semesters following the 2 years program. Students even get hands-on working experience in their 6-month internship during the program, along with practical, project work, and dissertation

Some main subjects covered under the course are Research Methods in Food Science and Nutrition, Nutrition Epidemiology, Paediatric and Geriatric Nutrition, Scientific Writing and Nutrition Communications, Scientific Writing and Nutrition Communications, Techniques and Instrumentation in Nutrition Research, Food Processing and Technology, etc.

Q:   Which is the best Food and Nutrition course?

A:

Other than MSc in Food and Nutrition, candidates can also pursue similar specializations under Home Science subject. These courses include MSc Nutrition and Dietetics, MSc Clinical Nutrition, PG Diploma in Dietetics, PG Diploma in Dietetics and Public Health, PGDM in Dietetics and Applied Nutrition, etc.

Best MSc Food and Nutrition Colleges in India

There are around 265 MSc in Food and Nutrition colleges in India, of which, around 107 are government and 123 are private institutions. These colleges offer advanced learning, lab sessions, placement opportunities, and more. Candidates can find some top college options in the tables below.

Best Government MSc Food and Nutrition Colleges in India

Banaras Hindu University, Delhi University, Jamia Hamdard, MGU Kerala, etc., are some of the most popular government MSc Food and Nutrition colleges in India. Candidates can some similar options in the table below:

Best Government Colleges

Tuition Fee

Banaras Hindu University

INR 12,524

Delhi University

INR 74,125

University of Calcutta

INR 12,000

MG University

INR 1.20 Lakh

BBAU Lucknow

INR 60,000 – 1 Lakh

Andhra University

INR 2.8 Lakh

Mysore University

INR 4,820

Jamia Hamdard University

INR 2 Lakh

Guru Nanak Dev University

INR 98,890

PAU Ludhiana

INR 76,880

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

Best Private MSc Food and Nutrition Colleges in India

Amity University, VIT Vellore, Chandigarh University, Graphic Era University, etc., are some of the most popular private MSc Food and Nutrition colleges in India. Candidates can some similar options in the table below:

Best Private Colleges

Tuition Fee

Amity University

INR 3.36 Lakh

Banasthali Vidyapith

INR 1.83 Lakh

BIT Mesra

INR 6.32 Lakh

Chandigarh University

INR 2.38 Lakh

Graphic Era University

INR 1.84 Lakh

JSS Mysore

INR 1.07 Lakh

Lovely Professional University

INR 3.20 Lakh

Maharishi Markandeshwar University

INR 80,000

Shoolini University

INR 3.2 – 3.3 Lakh

VIT Vellore

INR 3.75 Lakh

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

Students also liked topics on MSc Food and Nutrition:

Best Food & Nutrition Colleges in India

1 Course
12.52 K
9 LPA
480
16 LPA
3.4 L
3.8
3.75 L
4.0
93.26 K
4.6 LPA
24 K - 1.4 L
4 LPA

Q:   How many MSc Food and Nutrition colleges are there in India?

A:

Hi, India is home to about 200+ MSc in Food and Nutrition colleges of which 100+ colleges are privately owned, 100+ colleges are owned by the government and the rest 9 colleges are owned by semi government institutions. ICAR AIEEA, CUET-PG, CPGET, etc. are the popular entrance exams for admission to top MSc Food and Nutrition colleges in India. BHU, DU, VIT Vellore, Calcutta University, CU and Amity University are the best MSc in Food and Nutrition colleges in India

Q:   Which are the best MSc Food and Nutrition colleges in Delhi?

A:

There are a few government colleges in Delhi offering MSc Food and Nutrition courses. You can look at the table below for reference:

MSc Food and Nutrition colleges in DelhiTuition Fee
Lady Irwin CollegeINR 74,125
Institute of Home EconomicsINR 70,680
Jamia HamdardINR 2 Lakh

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

Q:   Which is the No. 1 MSc in Food and Nutrition colleges in India?

A:

Hi, given below are the best MSc in Food and Nutrition colleges in India according to popularity:

College NameTuition FeeEligibility / Exams
VIT VelloreINR 3.75 lakhMerit-Based
Calcutta UniversityINR 12,000Merit-Based
CUINR 2.34 lakhCUCET
Amity UniversityINR 3.36 lakhMerit-Based

Popular Private MSc Food & Nutrition Colleges in India

3 Courses
2.3 L
3.0
2.6 L

Food & Nutrition Applications open. Apply Now

2.1 L
4.0
3.4 L
3.8
1.47 L
5.0
2 Courses
3.2 L
6.6 LPA

Food & Nutrition Applications open. Apply Now

MSc Food and Nutrition Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

The MSc Food Science and Nutrition scope is quite broad and students can find stability almost immediately in their careers. With Food Technology evolving across the globe, there is a wide variety of job sectors to opt for.

Students can however go into research and development, or start a career in education as an Assistant Professor. A bright career as an MSc in Food and Nutrition student is possible in both private and government sectors. Here are some top MSc Food and Nutrition jobs and other details for interested students:

Job Profiles

Job Description

Average Salary

Quality Control Manager

They ensure that all products of the company meet consistent standards. They plan and implement quality control tests.

INR 9.3 LPA

Food Scientist

They research, develop and test different ingredients and foods, ensuring they are safe for humans to consume.

INR 7.3 LPA

Food Technologist

They study the physical, chemical, and biological composition of foods to develop methods for safely processing, preserving, and packaging them

INR 3.7 LPA

Nutritionist

They evaluate clients' dietary needs, provide details about the effects of nutrients on overall health, and offer counselling to suggest positive alterations in nutrition.

INR 3.5 LPA

Assistant Professor

Their role includes providing guidance and supervision to graduate students, participating in departmental meetings, etc.

INR 5.5 LPA

Note: The salary information is sourced from Ambitionbox.com.

MSc Food and Nutrition Top Recruiters

There are numerous food industries, research centers, educational institutions, etc., in India hiring MSc Food and Nutrition students for various job roles. Here are some top recruiters for MSc Food and Nutrition.

MSc Food and Nutrition Top Recruiters

Nestle

Cadbury

World Food Programme

McCain Foods

Athulya Home Healthcare

Anmol Industries

PepsiCo

Del Monte Foods

Amul India

Kerala Feeds

Triveni Engineering & Industries

Andrew Yule & Co.

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

Relevant Links for MSc Food and Nutrition:

Job Opportunities and Careers in Food Nutrition in India: Exploring Growth and Compensation

MSc Food and Nutrition Courses Abroad for Indian Students

Pursuing an MSc in Food and Nutrition abroad can be a great opportunity to enhance one's education, gain international experience, and broaden one's horizons. Candidates must choose a country that aligns with their academic and personal goals.

The candidates must not forget to review the admission requirements for admission, including academic prerequisites, standardized test scores (such as GRE, IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE, etc., for English proficiency), letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose. The MSc in Food and Nutrition eligibility criteria for abroad countries differ as per the colleges and countries.

Studying MSc in Food and Nutrition courses abroad can be expensive. The average course fee can range between INR 89,240 to INR 62.45 Lakh. The popular countries for MSc in Food and Nutrition courses are Germany, the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia.

Best Universities in the USA

Texas A & M University

Arizona State University

Columbia University

Best Universities in the UK

The University of Edinburgh

University College London

King's College London

Best Universities in Australia

The University of Melbourne

The University of Sydney

The University of Queensland

Best Universities in Canada

The University of British Columbia

University of Toronto

McGill University

Best Universities in Germany

Technical University of Munich

University of Bonn

Technical University of Berlin

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

Useful Links for MSc Food and Nutrition:

MS in Food & Nutrition in Abroad - Colleges and Fees 2025

Q:   Which are the highest-paying MSc Food and Nutrition jobs in India?

A:

As an MSc in Food and Nutrition student, you can opt for jobs in industries like healthcare, food production, research, education, etc. While a high-paying job depends on your skills, experience, employer, etc., becoming a Nutritionist, Dietician, Research Associate, or Assistant Professor can also increase your chances of getting a good pay along with relevant experience in the industry. Meanwhile, here are some average salaries of MSc in Food and Nutrition salary options in the table below:

Job ProfilesAverage Salary
Quality Control ManagerINR 9.3 LPA
Food ScientistINR 7.3 LPA
NutritionistINR 3.5 LPA
Assistant ProfessorINR 5.5 LPA

Q:   What is the scope of M.Sc in Food and Nutrition in India?

A:

Graduates with an MSc in Food Science and Nutrition have many options for jobs in the public and private sectors. Students pursuing the MSc programme in Food Science and Nutrition are not restricted to their particular fields upon graduation, which leads to a large number of employment opportunities. There are numerous research centres, food production companies, healthcare companies, and more to join for various job roles.

MSc Food and Nutrition FAQs

Students can refer to this section for MSc Food and Nutrition course FAQs.

Q:   What is the highest placement offered by the best MSc Food and Nutrition colleges in India?

A:

Hi, you can refer below for the best MSc Food and Nutrition colleges in India that offer the highest placement package to their students:

College NameTuition FeeAnnual Median Package
Symbiosis Institute of Health SciencesINR 4.4 lakhINR 20.8 LPA
Defence Institute of Advanced Technology INR 2.7 lakhINR 15 LPA
UoLINR 1.54 lakhINR 14.4 LPA
Symbiosis Graduate School of Hotel AdministrationINR 2.48 lakhINR 11.68 LPA
Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research InstituteINR 4.5 lakhINR 10.62 LPA

 

Q:   Can I pursue MSc Food and Nutrition distance education in India?

A:

Yes, there are a few colleges in India offering MSc Food and Nutrition distance education courses. Take a look at the table below to find some good options:

MSc Food and Nutrition Distance Education CollegesTuition Fee
IGNOUINR 33,000
IGNOU Regional Centre, AhmedabadINR 32,400
Institute of Sports Science and TechnologyINR 49,380

qna

Student Forum

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

Answered 3 weeks ago

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

...more

M

Manisha Chauhan

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 3 weeks ago

 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

R

Raj B

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 3 weeks ago

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 intrig

...more

N

Nishtha Rastogi

Beginner-Level 4