Food Science is the science behind the products we consume every day. Food scientists apply the principles of chemistry, biochemistry, nutrition, microbiology, sensory science, nanotechnology, forensic science and engineering to produce the next generation of food products, to improve food processing techniques and to ensure quality, safety and nutritional value of the food supply.

Food safety is a significant global issue with enormous implication for public health. The Faculty of Life and Physical Sciences at UWA recognises this and with the input of Government regulators and major food companies developed a strategic food science program with emphasis on food safety and security.

The Master of Food Science program provides advanced training in all aspects of food safety and quality as well as some fundamental aspects of food science and technology. It enables students to develop an awareness of the emerging issues associated with the food supply.

The applied program gives students the opportunity to work in industry alongside a mentor. They will also learn to design and implement Food Safety Management Systems, and gain an understanding of domestic and international food laws and regulations.

Course outline

This course is a strategically designed food science program with emphasis on food safety and security including food regulation laws. It features several core units, electives and a research component. All units are valued at 6 credit points except the Research Unit which carries 24 points.

Contributions to the teaching will come from a number of faculties at UWA including Life and Physical Sciences, Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences and Law. Food industry guest lecturers may include personnel from Food Standards Australia and New Zealand, WA Department of Health (Pathwest), National Measurement Institute, CSIRO and private companies.

Core units

All units have a value of six points unless otherwise stated.

First year

• SCIE8850 Introduction to Food Safety
• CHEM8850 Chemistry for Food Science
• CHEM8851 Chemical and Physical Food Hazards
• SCOM8303 Communication Strategies for Change
• MICR8850 Microbiological Food Hazards
• MICR8814 Microbiology for Nurses
• SCIE8851 Quality Control and Assurance
• PUBH8804 Food and Nutrition in Public Health

Second year

• FNSC8530 Food Science: Emerging Issues
  
• LAWS8621 Food Laws and Regulation
• FNSC8531 Food Forensics: Research Project (24 points)

Assessment

Subjects are assessed through a combination of examination, assignments, case studies and mock scenarios.  The research project is assessed through a written research report and oral presentation.  Marks will also be awarded based on conduct and performance in the laboratory environment.

Career Prospects

The program is designed in conjunction with the food industry to produce a graduate with the knowledge and skills to move directly into an industry position.  Graduates can expect to be employed in:

• Private and public food companies and organisations;
• Government and independent agencies involved in food research, planning, development, and control;
• International organisations responsible for developing international food standards and providing various forms of aid for developing countries;
• Laboratories involved in analysing the chemical, physical, microbiological, sensory and nutritional properties of food products;
• Food marketing, merchandising and distribution;
• Schools and educational/training organisation in the fields of food science and technology

Admission requirements

Criteria for entry to the program consists of:

1. Academic Performance in Bachelor studies in a scientific or engineering discipline. Normally a credit weighted average for the degree is expected.
2. Background in required knowledge areas
3. Outcome of personal interview.

English Language Competence

All applicants for UWA coursework programs must demonstrate a minimum level of English Language Competence.

Course enquiries

Centre for Forensic Science
Contact: Professor Garry Lee, Centre for Forensic Science
Telephone: +(61 8) 6488 2561.