Who is this for?
This Program is for any student interested in studying, pursuing or exploring a career in Food, Science and Technology.
The FOOD FST project seeks to attract and prepare students to be part of a future solution. The proposed educational pipeline and associated curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and student support services will enable students – as the next generation of the agri-food and beverage workforce.
Eligibility
- Be a high school graduate or have a high school diploma equivalent (such as a GED)
- Complete FAFSA or CA Dream Act application
- Complete a Los Angeles City College Application
- Complete the Food Science and Technology Program Interest Form
- Apply for Financial Aid
- Must enroll in a minimum of 12 units each semester (fall and spring)
- Must meet with a dedicated FST Counselor at least once per semester to ensure student is advancing in their educational plan
- Student must be willing to participate and engage in activities and events associated with the FST Program as his/her schedule permits
- Must notify Program Coordinator and/or Counselor of any intent to drop a class, change class schedule or of any challenges or concerns students may face in adhering to their ed plan or continuing with Program
Length & Commitment
The Food, Science and Technology Program is a two (2) year program. Students are expected to commit to the Program for two (2) years.
Any degrees and/or Certification
Upon completion of the required courses with at least a “C” grade or better in each course, the student will be awarded a Certificate of Achievement in Food Chemistry.
Careers Related To The COA/AA
Entry level careers within the food industry include but are not limited to quality assurance, sensory analysis, sensory science, food nutrition and health, food processing and packaging, food safety, nutritional content analysis, food storage, food safety, food plant management, etc.
Food Science Technician
Food science technicians provide assistance to food scientists and technologists in their research. They conduct standardized tests for quality assurance, quality control, and content analysis of food products and goods. They collect and maintain data obtained from their laboratory tests. Food Science technicians evaluate results in order to categorize products and samples/ They ensure that food products and packaging meet required safety specifications.
Consumer Safety Officer
Consumer safety officers perform assessments in production plants to verify that their food safety processes are designed properly. They also make sure that the systems function adequately. They may conduct investigations and compile evidence to support enforcement actions.
Food Inspector
Food inspectors ascertain the safety and freshness of food for public consumption. They inspect slaughterhouses and processing plants to ensure that federal agricultural laws and regulations are being followed.
Food Policy Analyst
Policy analysts are involved in creating and assessing government policies. Food policy analysts may focus on issues like food safety and production. They analyze data related to food systems, food nutrition and food access. They are usually involved in researching the effects of policies and obtain data to generate statistics and reports that will guide future policy.
Career & Job Placement Opportunities
Employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. About 3,100 openings for agricultural and food scientists are projected each year.
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