We are here to help you make the most out of your time at university and to prepare you for an exciting career in food.
For any questions or support please email education@ifst.org
Our goal is to be your passport to knowledge, contacts and professional development at this early stage of your career and to support you as you bridge the gap between university and industry.
If you are studying full or part-time at foundation degree level or above within the UK and are interested in pursuing a career in food, we encourage you to join IFST as a student member. Find out more here.
Our student representatives promote our events, competitions and IFST membership. We hold meetings with the representatives to discuss how we can best support their studies and their transition into careers in the food sector.
Our annual career event supports food science students by providing them with an experience to strengthen their perceptions of the food sector beyond the university setting and help provide valuable insights into possible careers in all aspects of the food chain. The Student LaunchPads take place every year from October - November. Find out more & book here.
Student Career LaunchPad
Our annual Student LaunchPad events support food science students by providing them with an experience to strengthen their perceptions of the food sector beyond the university setting and help provide valuable insights into possible careers in all aspects of the food chain.
Watch previous event recordings, here.
Apprentice & Student Career LaunchPad
Our Apprentice & Student LaunchPad provides both apprentices and students with valuable insights into exciting career options in the food sector and alternative pathways to enter a career in food. Last year we prepared plenty of valuable experiences and events, during the week, which we hope will help launch your career.
An apprenticeship is a great opportunity for everyone to gain an all-round understanding of the food sector.
Apprentices typically split their time between on-the-job training and studying towards an industry-recognised qualification. As well as getting invaluable work experience, they are paid a salary for the duration of the scheme.
Our degree accreditation scheme recognises relevant Bachelor and Masters degree programmes for face-to-face and distance-learning students.
Taking part in competitions is a fantastic way to enhance your CV, network with food professionals and make connections across the sector.
We offer national and regional opportunities for students. Deadlines are staggered throughout the year so be sure to check back regularly for up-to-date information.
Our members have been kind enough to provide helpful information based on their experiences to help you prepare for your career in food. Read their tips here.
IFST has an ongoing project to align food science resources to the sciences curricula and encourage their use and integration in the curriculum, through discussions with educational stakeholders. For more information please click here.
Why choose a career in food?
The production and distribution of food is the largest and most important economic activity in the world. The health and welfare of people everywhere depend on good agricultural yields and on the reliable storage, successful processing and safe handling of all types of food. Food professionals work in many occupations including industry (manufacturing, retailing and foodservice), universities and schools, government, research and development, quality assurance and food law enforcement.
The food sector is crying out for well-qualified and experienced specialists who can play their part in the complex and increasingly sophisticated food supply system.
These documents outline the opportunities avaliable at IFST for students and provide handy tips to ehance your career in food.