Food Science Program

The food science graduate program is an interdepartmental program. Admission is based on academic merit, capability to do research and the match of research interests between the applicant and faculty in the areas of specialization listed. Contact Dr. C.M. Lee at chonglee@mail.uri.edu or 401-874-2862 for further information.

The department provides areas of specialization in marine food product and process development, physical properties and rheology, fish mince and surimi technology, bioconversion technology, seafood flavor, food safety and quality assessment.

Master of Science

Admission requirements
The masters program in food science requires the GRE and a bachelor's degree in food science or closely related field. Candidates lacking undergraduate courses in biological science, general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, physics, statistics and calculus may be required to make up deficiencies without graduate credit.

Program requirements
A total of 30 credits is required for graduation, 6 credits for thesis research and 24 credits of course work. All students must complete two credits of NFS 511; a minimum of three credits in biochemistry, chemistry or microbiology; NFS 432 and 502. Additional coursework will be selected as appropriate for the student's area of specialization in consultation with, and approval of, the major professor.

Doctor of Philosophy (Biological Sciences)

Admission requirements
Admission to the PhD program requires the GRE and a masters degree in food science or related physical or biological science. Either the undergraduate or MS degree must be in food science.

Program requirements
A minimum of 72 credits of advanced coursework beyond the bachelor's degree is required (a master's degree may count for up to 30 credits). In addition to the dissertation, all students must complete BCH 581, STA 532 or equivalent, BCH 521, 542 or CHE 574, three credits of 511, and a research problem (NFS 691, 692) under the supervision of an advisor other than the major professor. Students who have not taken courses required for the MS must do so as part of the PhD program.