Skip navigation
You are viewing our beta course page.

Food Science and Nutrition

Study level:
Undergraduate

Course options

Study mode:
Sandwich
Qualification:
Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
Duration:
4 Years
Start date:
09/2026
Campus:
Stag Hill
2025-20262026-2027
Apply

Course summary

Why choose this course
-Study on an Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) accredited course.

-Gain industry experience through a Professional Training placement, working for an employer such as the Government, a nutrition-focused business, or a large specialised bakery, confectionary, cereal or dairy food company.

-Access our £12.5 million Innovation for Health Learning Laboratory and our new Food and Nutrition Kitchen Lab to acquire practical experience that is greatly valued by a wide range of employers.

-Learn from lecturers who have been awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Further and Higher Education, in recognition of their research excellence in the field of food and nutrition.

What you will study
Food science is a multidisciplinary subject that applies biology and chemistry to the physical, chemical and biochemical study of food. Nutrition is the study of the biochemical and physiological processes through which food is utilised by the body. This degree encompasses both aspects to a high level.

In your first year, you’ll study a broad range of topics, including food and nutritional science-focused subjects, as well as cell biology, biological chemistry, biochemistry and physiology to give you a solid foundation upon which to build the rest of your degree.

In your second year, you’ll develop your understanding of what happens to the components of food during processing and storage. You'll gain an understanding of the role of food microbiology and how safe, nutritious food can be effectively produced. You’ll acquire an appreciation for the functionality of ingredients used in foods and product development, while exploring the basis of nutrition and the role this has on aetiology and prevention of illnesses, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

In your third year, you’ll have the choice to specialise further, studying topics like food chemistry to continue to evaluate the role of natural and added components in the foods we eat. You will also gain a more in-depth understanding of the technologies used to produce safe and nutritious foods as well as the importance of food security. You’ll also advance your knowledge of the role of nutrition in certain illnesses and how this contributes to their prevention.

Modules

To see the full range of modules for this course please visit our website – the link is under the Course contact details. You will also find full details of the programme, including programme structure, assessment methods, contact hours and Graduate prospects.

Apply by
14 January

This is the equal consideration deadline. You can still apply after this date, but your application may not receive guaranteed consideration.

Application codes

Course code:
BD47
Institution code:
S85
Campus name:
Stag Hill
Campus Code:
-
Points of Entry:
Year 1

University of Surrey has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.

See why these ratings were awarded
What does this TEF outcome mean?

How to apply

Apply by
14 January

This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application codes

Course code:
BD47
Institution code:
S85
Campus name:
Stag Hill
Campus Code:
-

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Year 1

International applicants

We are proud to be one of the most culturally diverse universities in the UK, with more than 140 nationalities playing a role in university life. Our International Recruitment team are here to help you throughout the application process – from advising on choosing the right course to applying for a visa and preparing for your first few weeks at Surrey. You can contact them via international@surrey.ac.uk

Applicants who require a Student Visa to study in the UK:
To apply for a Student Visa, you must have a Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS) for the University you wish to study at. This is a unique number which will enable you to apply for your visa. The University is under no legal obligation to sponsor any individual and exercises caution with respect to issuing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to avoid risking its status as a Student sponsor. Confirmation of Acceptance to Study (CAS) will be issued in accordance with the Student Route and CAS Issuing Policy, available at: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/apply/policies

Chat to student ambassadors

Discover what it's like to study Food Science and Nutrition at University of Surrey: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.

POWERED BY Unibuddy

  • Amelia

    University of Surrey
    Psychology BSc (Hons)
    Hi, I’m Milly! 😊 - I’m a final year Psychology student - I did a placement year - I have been a part of the hockey society - I’ve lived in student halls, a house share, and private accommodation - I have had lots of part time jobs in Guildford Feel free to drop me a message if you have any questions or just want a chat about uni life!

  • Imane

    University of Surrey
    Modern Languages (French and Spanish) BA (Hons)
    I am a 3rd-year languages student on placement at the University of Surrey studying French and Spanish. Feel free to ask my questions on what's it like to study languages here or stuff to do with university accommodation where relevant. I aim to respond to messages in 24 hours, however if it’s been 48 hours since you’ve messaged me or 48 hours since I’ve told you that I’d get back to you/give more information then message again as reminder. All communication with me shall happen on Unibuddy or The Student Room (TSR) so please don’t give offsite chat details that isn’t TSR. I can’t communicate with you via Email, Social Media or Text (excluding Unibuddy and TSR where I’m happy to message you).

  • Daniel

    University of Surrey
    Accounting and Finance BSc (Hons)
    BSc Accounting and Finance student with Industrial Placement year experience with BDO UK. I studied A-level Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Chemistry. In the future, I hope to be on a graduate scheme working in Audit/Assurance for a public accounting firm. Please feel free to ask me anything (I aim to reply within 48 hours).

  • Hannah

    University of Surrey
    Veterinary Medicine and Science BVMSci (Hons)
    Hi, my name is Hannah! I am fourth year veterinary medicine student. I haven’t decided which area of veterinary medicine I’m going to go into yet, but I enjoy the variety that comes with working in a mixed practice of small animal, farm and equine. I enjoy staying active by doing gymnastics, running and have learnt how to play polo since joining the society at university. I love walking dogs, riding ponies and going on runs with my friends. I'm happy to answer any questions you have :)

  • Chloe

    University of Surrey
    Media and Communication BSc (Hons)
    Hi, I'm Chloe! A Media and Communications student at Surrey. I am currently in a house share walking distance from campus with 3 of my friends. In my spare time I love hiking, yoga and going out with friends. I am currently treasurer for the Sociology Society and vice president of the Yoga Society which keeps me very busy. As well as completing my course, I am taking an additional module called the Sustainable Futures Award, which I attend once a week.

  • Gurtaran

    University of Surrey
    Civil Engineering MEng (Hons)
    Hi! I’m Taran, a Civil Engineering MEng student at the University of Surrey. I have completed a year in industry, having gained experience through a placement year and summer placements at large engineering consultancies. These opportunities have helped me understand what civil engineering looks like in practice, especially within the water and infrastructure sectors, and confirmed my interest in building a strong technical career after graduation. I’m particularly interested in how civil engineering projects shape communities and manage real-world challenges like flooding, sustainability, and infrastructure resilience. At university, I’ve enjoyed the balance between technical problem-solving and practical, software-based coursework, and I’ve learned a lot about managing workload, exams, and placements alongside personal goals. I know choosing a degree (and a university) can feel overwhelming, so I’m happy to chat about civil engineering, placements, the MEng route, student life at Surrey, or anything else you’re unsure about. Feel free to message me — I’m always happy to help!

  • Kelly

    University of Surrey
    Law (Philosophy, Politics and Law Pathway) LLB (Hons)
    I am currently in my 4th year (final year) of my course. After completing a placement in a firm specialising in Family Law and Commerical Litigation. I am an aspiring family law solicitor and have plans to do a masters in preparation for the solicitors qualifying exams.

  • Izzie

    University of Surrey
    Business Management and French BSc (Hons)
    Hello! I’m a second-year Business Management and French student at the University of Surrey. I have a strong interest in public relations and hope to pursue a career in crisis PR in the future. Alongside my studies, I currently work in marketing for a destination wedding company. If you’re thinking about studying business, languages, or any arts-related subject, feel free to ask me any questions. I’m also happy to chat about student life and studying at Surrey. Don’t hesitate to get in touch! <3

  • Freya

    University of Surrey
    Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
    Previously, I studied Maths, Biology and Law as A levels. I am currently studying Biomedical science with a foundation year at the University of Surrey. I enjoy spending time with my friends and love summertime as my home town is a 5 minute walk from the beach.

  • Keziah

    University of Surrey
    Chemistry BSc (Hons)
    I am a final year chemist with an interest in inorganics and materials chemistry while also being an Ambassador for the University of Surrey for other events.

  • Cat

    University of Surrey
    Adult Nursing with Foundation Year
    Hiya! I'm Cat, a current Adult Nursing student in my second year at the University of Surrey. I am passionate about emergency nursing, general practice and encouraging healthcare students to explore all areas of this versatile career. I got into surrey via clearing after not quite achieving the grades for my original choice. I studied a foundation year and found it unbelievably useful and beneficial for my degree. Feel free to ask any questions you have about nursing, student jobs, accommodation or life as a student here at Surrey!

  • Ida

    University of Surrey
    English Literature MA
    Hi! I’m a Norwegian international student who has done my whole higher education abroad. As could be guessed from my degree I love reading, and I’d love to one day work in the publishing industry. I’d love to chat about the course, experiences, hobbies and uni social life😊
  • See all

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements

UCAS Tariff - Not accepted

A level - ABB - BBB

Overall: ABB-BBB We do not include General Studies or Critical Thinking in our offers. Required subjects: Biology or Chemistry and one from the following - Physics, Sport Studies, Physical Education, Mathematics, Statistics, Psychology, Geography, Environmental Science, Food Technology, Home Economics, or Nutrition and Food Science. Applicants taking the Science Practical Endorsement are required to pass.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - DDD - DDM

Overall: DDD-DDM in Applied Science (please contact us if you are taking a different BTEC).

Access to HE Diploma

Overall: QAA recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma with 45 Level 3 credits overall including 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit - 27 at Distinction and 18 at Merit. Required subjects: 15 credits in Biology or Chemistry and 15 credits in another science subject.

Scottish Higher - AABBB - ABBBB

Overall: AABBB-ABBBB Required subjects: Biology or Chemistry and another science or mathematics subject. GCSE or Equivalent: Scottish National 5: English Language - C Scottish National 5: Maths - C

Scottish Advanced Higher - ABB - BBB

Overall: ABB-BBB Required subjects: Biology or Chemistry and one from the following - Physics, Sport Studies, Physical Education, Mathematics, Statistics, Psychology, Geography, Environmental Science, Food Technology, Home Economics, or Nutrition and Food Science. GCSE or Equivalent: Scottish National 5: English Language - C Scottish National 5: Maths - C

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme - 33 - 32 points

Overall: 33-32 Required subjects: Biology or Chemistry HL5/SL6 and a second science or mathematics subject HL5/SL6. GCSE or Equivalent: English A HL4/SL4 or English B HL5/SL6 and Mathematics (either course) HL4/SL4.

WJEC Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

Overall: Pass overall with ABB-BBB from a combination of the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and two A-levels. Required subjects: A-level Biology or Chemistry and an A-level in another science or mathematics subject. A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking are not accepted. Applicants taking the Science Practical Endorsement are expected to pass. GCSE or equivalent: English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 (C).

Extended Project - A

Applicants taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) will receive our standard A-level offer for this programme, plus an alternate offer of one A-level grade lower, subject to achieving an A grade in the EPQ. The one grade reduction will not apply to any required subjects. Applicants can only receive one grade reduction from the published grades, an EPQ grade reduction can’t be applied in addition to other grade reductions made through other schemes such as Contextual Admissions or In2Surrey.

GCSE/National 4/National 5

GCSE English and Mathematics grade C (4) (or equivalent).

T Level - D

Overall: Distinction overall, with minimum C in the Core Component. Required subjects: Science. GCSE or equivalent: English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 (C).

Applications are considered on an individual basis, taking into account qualifications achieved, predicted grades, personal statement and academic reference. Conditional offers are specified in terms of required grades; we do not make offers in terms of overall UCAS tariff.

We understand that predicted grades are an estimate and will consider applicants who have predicted grades that are a little lower than our published requirement. Any offers we make will align with the grades shown above unless a grade reduction can be offered under our Contextual Admissions policy or our In2Surrey scheme. Details can be found here: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/schools-colleges/contextual-admissions-policy

Applicants with a mixed qualification profile (e.g. those taking A-levels and BTEC qualifications) are encouraged to contact admissions@surrey.ac.uk for guidance on the grades accepted.

English language requirements

TestGradeAdditional details
IELTS (Academic)6.56.5 overall with 6.0 in Writing and 5.5 in each other element

View the other English language qualifications that we accept: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/apply/international/english-language-requirements

Historical entry grades data BETA

This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

Data from:
This course and 4 other nutrition and dietetics courses
Date range:
2022-2024

Grades held by accepted students

For University of Surrey, the top and bottom 5% of student grades have been removed from these calculations. This change helps to remove any extraordinary circumstances that could impact the data. Learn more here .
BBC Most common
  1. A*AA
  2. Highest grades
  3. CCC
  4. Lowest grades

Offer rate for UK school & college leavers

74% Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.

How do you compare?

See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.

Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students

50 Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)

90 Go onto work and study

The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

Please see our website for up-to-date information on our fees for 2026/27:

https://www.surrey.ac.uk/fees-and-funding/tuition-fees/undergraduate-2026-entry

Sponsorship information

The University of Surrey offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support our students, please visit https://www.surrey.ac.uk/fees-and-funding/scholarships-and-bursaries for more details.

Related courses

At University of Surrey

Like this page