Program: Biological Sciences (M.S.) - Food Science Specialization - South Dakota State University

2024-2025 Graduate Catalog

Apr 07, 2025

Students working in a food lab.

Program Coordinator/Contact

Londa Nwadike, Department Head
Department of Dairy and Food Science
Alfred Dairy Science Hall 136, Box 2104
605-688-4116

Program Information

The Food Science program offers excellent opportunities for graduate level coursework and research leading to academic or industry careers in Food Science. Graduate students receive advanced preparation related to food processing, product development, and food safety. Food science is a multi-disciplinary program administered by the Department of Dairy and Food Science, but may also encompass areas such as animal science, food grain processing, and agricultural and biosystems engineering.

Course Delivery Format

Biological Sciences courses are delivered face-to-face and enhanced with web-based instruction. Online delivery may be offered for specific courses.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Thesis	30 Credit Hours
	Non-Thesis	32 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

For details see specific program: M.S. in Biological Sciences .

The student, major advisor and Advisory Committee select the discipline specific emphasis area of the biological sciences. The courses will be identified on the student’s Plan of Study no later than the end of the first year of study.

DS 722 - Advanced Dairy and Food Microbiology Credits: 3
DS 731 - Laboratory Techniques in Dairy Science Credits: 3
DS 790 - Seminar (COM) Credits: 1-3 (2 credits required)
DS 796 - Field Experience (COM) Credits: 1-3 (1 credit required)
FS 500 - Food Chemistry and Analysis Credits: 3
FS 500L - Food Chemistry and Analysis Lab Credits: 2
FS 551 - New Food Product Development Credits: 3
FS 551L - New Food Product Development Lab Credits: 1
STAT course 500-level or higher Credits: 3

Select one of the following options

Thesis

FS 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (5-9 credits required)
Electives Credits: 0-4

Non-Thesis

FS 788 - Research Problems/Projects (COM) Credits: 1-3 (2-3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 8-9

Total Required Credits: 30 (Thesis), 32 (Non-Thesis)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: 79-80 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 110

At least two letters of reference and a personal statement that includes a description of the applicants’ involvement in research, the applicant’s research interest, and career goals.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework. For additional information, refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .

Biological Sciences (M.S.) - Food Science Specialization

Location(s): Brookings Main CampusClose