Food Science and Technology needs no introduction, especially among science students, as it is one of the most prestigious and valuable courses with almost endless opportunities. Admission can be competitive, so it’s essential to understand the requirements clearly.
The course is open to both O’Level and Direct Entry students. O’Level students will need qualifications from WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, while Direct Entry students can apply with a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or a Bachelor’s degree. Exploring the diverse field of Food Science and Technology can lead to rewarding career paths in the food industry, research, and innovation.
What is Food Science and Technology?
Food Science and Technology is a field of study that involves the application of scientific principles to the production, processing, preservation, packaging, and distribution of food. People in this field work on everything from developing new food items to making sure they follow all the rules and are safe for us to enjoy. It’s an important job that helps us have better and healthier food options.
Why Should I Study Food Science and Technology as a Course?
Studying Food Science and Technology opens up exciting opportunities to explore the science behind what we eat. It allows you to delve into creating safe, delicious, and nutritious food. This course combines elements of chemistry, microbiology, and engineering to enhance the quality of our food. By choosing this field, you contribute to developing new food products and ensuring they adhere to high standards of safety and taste. It’s a rewarding path that not only fuels your curiosity about the science of food but also plays a crucial role in providing healthier and tastier food options for people.
Note: Please be aware that some schools’ requirements below may vary. In such cases, it is recommended to refer to the PDF version of the JAMB Brochure for accurate information.
O’Level Requirements to Study Food Science and Technology
Faculty of Science
To enroll in a Food Science and Technology program at a Nigerian university, you must meet the O’Level requirement, which includes obtaining five (5) SSCE credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology/Agricultural Science, and Physics.
Faculty of Engineering, Environmental, and Technology
To pursue a degree in Food Science and Technology at a Nigerian university under the Faculty of Engineering, Environmental, and Technology, you must meet the O’Level requirement, which entails obtaining five (5) SSCE credit passes. These must include Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, English Language, and any other Science subject.
Direct Entry Requirements to Study Food Science and Technology
Faculty of Science
- Two (2) ‘A’ level passes in Chemistry and Biology/Physics/Agricultural Science/Botany/Zoology.
- National Diploma (ND) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in relevant programmes with either an upper or lower credit respectively.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification with a minimum of Lower Credit.
Faculty of Engineering, Environmental, and Technology
- ‘A’ level passes in two (2) of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- ND or HND in relevant programmes with either an upper or lower credit respectively.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification with a minimum of Lower Credit.
Jamb Subject Combination for Food Science and Technology
Faculty of Science
- English
- Chemistry
- Mathematics/Physics
- Agricultural Science
Faculty of Engineering, Environmental, and Technology
- English
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Physics or Biology
Universities that Offer Food Science and Technology
Faculty of Science
- CALABAR – University of Calabar, Calabar, Cross River State
- LAPAI – Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State
- MOUNTAIN TOP – Mountain Top University, Ogun State
Faculty of Engineering, Environmental, and Technology
- FUTO: Federal University of Technology, Owerri (Owerri, Imo State)
- IGBINEDION: Igbinedion University (Okada, Edo State)
- KWASU: Kwara State University (Malete, Kwara State)
- MADONNA: Madonna University (Okija, Anambra State)
- MAIDUGURI: University of Maiduguri (Maiduguri, Borno State)
- OAU: Obafemi Awolowo University (Ile-Ife, Osun State)
- TECH-IBADAN: Technical University (Ibadan, Oyo State)
- WESLEYUNI: Wesley University of Science and Technology (Ondo, Ondo State)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Food Science and Technology a Science course?
Yes, Food Science and Technology is basically a Science course. In most Nigerian Universities, it falls under the Faculty of Science and the Faculty of Engineering, Environmental, and Technology.
Can Commercial or Arts Students Study Food Science and Technology?
No, Commercial or Art Students will not be able to study Food Science and Technology due to the requirements in relevant science subjects. However, individuals aspiring to pursue this course, irrespective of their background in Commerce or Arts, should carefully examine the specific entry criteria of the university they plan to apply to. Certain institutions might specify particular subject requirements for admission, and candidates may find information on these criteria in the special consideration section.
What Jobs can I apply for after studying Food Science and Technology?
After completing a degree in Food Science and Technology, you can pursue diverse career paths, including roles such as Food Technologist, Quality Assurance Manager, Product Development Scientist, Food Safety Specialist, Sensory Scientist, Nutritionist, Research and Development Scientist, Food Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Quality Control Analyst, Food Microbiologist, Packaging Technologist, and Food Engineer. These positions offer opportunities for specialization and professional growth within the food industry and related sectors.
How many years does it take to Study Food Science and Technology?
Earning a degree in Food Science and Technology typically requires a minimum of 5 years. However, for direct entry students, the duration may be shortened to at least 4 years, as they are likely to commence from the 200 Level.
How challenging is it to gain admission to study Food Science and Technology at Nigerian universities?
Admission into the Food Science and Technology programme is not that highly competitive, however, all applicants must consider a combination of high academic performance, especially in relevant science subjects, along with success in entrance examinations such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and, in some cases, post-UTME screenings conducted by individual universities.
What is the cut-off mark for Food Science and Technology?
Students who score a minimum of 140 in the JAMB UTME are eligible to participate in the POST UTME as part of the requirements for applying to study Food Science and Technology in their chosen universities.
Note: Understand that the conditions mentioned above might differ in some universities. In such instances, it is advisable to check the PDF version of the JAMB Brochure for precise details. You can also access Jamb Subject Combination for other courses.
