Cal State LA is a premier public university in the heart of Los Angeles and is dedicated to engagement, service, and the public good. It is ranked No. 1 in the nation for upward mobility.
Well-Paid Jobs
A large number of food industries are located in and around Los Angeles, providing plenty of job opportunities for Food Science graduates. All of the graduates from the Food Science program in previous years are currently employed with various food industries and federal and state government agencies. A few of our graduates are employed with companies such as Amazon, Kellogg, Sunkist, Herbalife, and Gold Coast Ingredients.
Professional Development and Scholarships
Cal State LA food science program works closely with the Southern California Institute of Food Technologist (IFT) Section (SCIFTS). SCIFTS is the largest regional section of IFT, which provides opportunities for student scholarships (see Student Achievements), travel funds to professional conferences, product development competition, college bowl, industry tour, etc. Its monthly dinner meetings are great opportunities for students to connect with future employers, advisors, and collaborators.
Faculty
The program faculty are experts in Food Microbiology (safety) and Food Chemistry (quality). Other faculty members are industrial professionals and have expertise and first-hand experience in the specific fields they teach such as quality assurance, food laws and regulations, food product development, and food safety programs.
Facility
The Food Science and Technology program at Cal State LA has excellent laboratory facilities. The program is well equipped with three teaching and research laboratories where students work on projects that have real world applications in food science.
Research
The faculty in the program are keen on undergraduate research. Students interested in research and graduate studies could participate in research projects. Many students had presented in regional and national conferences.
Involvement and Leadership Development
The FST program also hosts an IFT chartered student organization, Food Science and Technology Association, which actively participates in regional college bowl and new food product development competitions.
