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Choosing a Course

careers and courses
carers and courses

Choosing a course for a career in food

There are so many university courses to choose from, and a huge number of universities to go to, so how do you choose which one is the right one for you? Deciding what to study, and where, can be a long and daunting process, so it’s a good idea to narrow down your options when it comes to degrees.

It is good to keep in mind that the subject you choose to study will determine what kind of qualification you’ll achieve at the end of your course. Out of the types of qualifications, the bachelor’s degree is the most popular undergraduate route into higher education – and they cover a massive range of courses and subjects: from food science, chemistry, journalism, and the arts!

A bachelor’s degree typically lasts three to four years, depending on the subject and if you choose to study full-time, with assessments and exams making up the majority of your final grades each year.

So, when it comes to choosing the right degree for a career in the food sector, what can you do? Discover how to choose the right degree.

Foundation degrees

Foundation degrees were created in partnership between universities, higher education colleges, and employers. They were designed to focus on the development of in-demand technical skills for a particular job or profession – proving a solid and strong platform for students seeking employment in specific sectors, such as the food sector. 

By undertaking a foundation degree, you open yourself up to being qualified to work in your desired workplace, but you also open the door to undergraduate study – which leads to being qualified for jobs higher up the chain in your chosen industry.

Find out more about foundation degrees.

HND courses

HND courses are highly practical qualifications that help prospective employees to enter the workplace right away. HND courses can also lead you to university, which will enable you to top up your qualification to a full bachelor’s degree.

Higher National Diploma courses are perfectly suited for those who prefer learning whilst doing – providing a faster route into certain professions than university. They can take two years of full-time study to complete, and are designed to help students develop the hands-on skills required for certain professions and industries.

Find out more about HND courses.

Is university right for you, or should you choose an apprenticeship?

Deciding the path you want to go down when it’s time to leave college can be a really tough choice. Do you want to get a degree from a university, or would you prefer to opt for an apprenticeship to earn while you learn? Both options have their pros and cons, but which is the best route for you?

Find out more if you’re still unsure whether or not you should go to university or do an apprenticeship.

What can I do with my degree in the food sector?

Maybe you think your degree isn’t suited for the food industry, or you simply don’t know how to effectively use your degree to break into the food industry. Whatever the case, just know that no degree was a waste of time.

The food industry requires skilled people from a wide variety of backgrounds in order for it to keep functioning smoothly. Discover career pathways.

Course directory

Explore our guide to current food innovation, sustainability & nutrition courses