What You Need to Apply

Please follow the instructions provided on the Penn State J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School (How to Apply) regarding required documents, application fees, and English language test requirements.

For application to the Food Science Graduate Program (MS and PhD degrees), the following additional information needs to be entered during the application:

  1. Personal statement (2-3 pages maximum). Please include the following information:
    • Reasons for applying for an advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Food Science.
    • Particular research interests and and how they align with the selected research areas (see below).
    • List any faculty in those research areas that you think would be a good fit with your research interests and indicate if you have been in contact with them.
    • Describe your career goals and plans for the future and how you think an advanced degree in Food Science from Penn State will help you reach these goals.
    • Any challenges you have had to overcome in your pursuit of higher education.
    • If applicable, previous graduate work or research experience.
    • If applicable, internship and/or co-op experience.
    • If applicable, previous experience in food industry or elsewhere.
    • Hobbies or other special interests.
    • List any external financial means (scholarships, fellowships etc.) to support graduate work.

  2. Selection of your first and second choice of a research area that aligns with your research interests.

    - Microbial Food Safety

    - Sensory and Consumer Science, Food Choice, and Eating Behavior

    - Food-based Solutions for Enhanced Health

    - Material Nature of Foods

    - Food and Beverage Fermentation

  3. Upload a current Curriculum Vitae (CV) that lists all educational and professional experiences including publications, presentations, professional associations, activities and honors (2 pages max)
  4. Provide contact details of three references. All references will be handled through GRADS. Include references’ contact information in the application and after the application is submitted, references will receive an email with instructions on how to upload their letter and provide their evaluation ratings. For any issues with this process, please contact us.