What is Food Science?
As high school seniors and their families research colleges and majors, a growing industry to consider is that of food science and technology. Although not well known, a food science degree offers a multitude of growing career paths for those looking to combine their love of food and science.
“Food science looks at the biological, chemical and physical makeup of food. Food scientists are looking at the science and engineering of food to preserve and produce food that is safe a high quality. One way to look at it is as the intersection between biology, chemistry and cooking,” said Laura Herbst, chair of the Department of Agribusiness and Food Science at Delaware Valley University (DelVal).
For the past eight years, 100% of graduates from DelVal’s Food Science and Technology Program have been employed at graduation and the food science industry is projected, by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to grow at a rate faster than the national average for all occupations.
“The food industry is excellent,” said Kurt Yasenchack ’14, regulatory intelligence scientist at The Campbell’s Company. “I think a lot of people don’t think about how big the food industry is… there are a lot of jobs to do in the food industry.”
In 2026, the median salary in food science jobs was $76,000 to $100,000. Careers in food science include research and development, product develop, processing, quality assurance, safety, policy, sales, nutrition, risk management, flavoring and many more. Whether your interest lies more in the science, the creation, or even the laws and regulations surrounding food, the food science industry includes many different career opportunities.
“I wanted to go to culinary school but parents wanted me to get a degree first. I thought that with my passion for science and food, DelVal was a really good option for me,” said Tori Bockrath ’26. Bockrath interned at Gorgeous Goat Creamery in Stockton, New Jersey and was hired full time when she graduated in May 2026.
Throughout their time at DelVal, students are learning in dedicated food science laboratories and kitchens in courses that are specified by the Institute of Food Technologists. Students have internships and exployment opportunities at top companies including The Campbell’s Company, Clemens Food Group, Turkey Hill, Ocean Spray, the Food and Drug Administration and many others.
Learn more by watching this short video about the program.
Students can learn more at DelVal’s Open House on October 24. Register at delval.edu/visit.
To learn more about pursuing a career in food science at DelVal, visit delval.edu/foodscience.
