Welcome to the Food Science and Nutrition Department at Cal Poly

The Food Science and Nutrition Department offers comprehensive education in food science and nutrition, from the development of new foods to the study of how foods impact health, wellness, and disease prevention. Our strategic vision is to prepare the food science, nutrition & dietetics professionals of tomorrow via experiential learning and leadership experience. Graduates will have the critical thinking, foundational knowledge and technical skills to solve the challenges related to the health of the community and sustainable and safe food systems. Meeting the increasing demand for food and nutrition experts worldwide, our graduates provide the public with well-prepared and highly competent food science and nutrition professionals.

The nutrition major offers concentrations in applied nutrition, which is a Didactic Program in Dietetics accredited by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and nutrition science.

The food science major offers concentrations in advanced food science (approved by the Institute of Food Technologists, IFT) and culinology (approved by the Research Chefs Association, RCA).

In addition, we offer minors in both nutrition and food science.

The university Learn by Doing philosophy sets our students apart; our students are directly involved in the community, participating in unique hands-on learning opportunities which translate to industry-readiness. All undergraduates, regardless of discipline, complete a senior project as a final demonstration of critical thinking and food and nutrition knowledge. This active learning environment has earned Cal Poly tremendous respect.

Come visit our campus, and meet our outstanding faculty, staff, and students!