According to the World Resources Institute, by 2050 the world will need to feed nearly 10 billion people. How do we get there? The answer lies partly in training the next generation of food scientists who can innovate across the entire food system, from production to nutrition.
For students interested in this field, finding quality English-taught programs can be challenging, especially in Asia where some of the world’s biggest food industry growth is happening.
Are you interested in being part of the solution? Maybe you’re passionate about nutrition, food safety, or sustainable agriculture. The question then becomes: where should you study food science to make the biggest impact?
If you’re looking to study in China, there’s a university that offers the English-taught Bachelor’s in Food Science and Technology in China: Beijing Normal University–Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) in Zhuhai.
Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) is an exceptional international liberal arts college located in Zhuhai, southern China.
*Note: In March 2025, Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University United International College (UIC), a joint venture between Beijing Normal University and Hong Kong Baptist University, officially renamed itself Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU).
About the Food Science and Technology Program at BNBU
The undergraduate program has prepared students to become food scientists, technologists, and industry professionals ready to work in both Chinese and international markets.
The program takes a complete approach to food science education. You’ll build strong foundations in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Food Microbiology, and Analytical Chemistry before moving into specialized courses like Food Chemistry, Food Process Engineering, and Nutrition.
To prepare you for leadership roles, the curriculum also includes business courses such as Accounting, Economics, and Human Resource Management.
World-Class Facilities and Research Opportunities
BNBU’s Food Science and Technology program stands out for its research focus. Undergraduate students have published more than 50 papers in international journals, making it one of the most research-active programs at the university.
This emphasis on hands-on research gives students real experience in food science innovation and prepares them for either industry careers or further academic study.
The program keeps its curriculum cutting-edge, reflecting the latest developments in food science and technology. You’ll work in modern laboratories and gain hands-on experience through practical courses and electives like Food Product Development and Practice.
Internships and Field Studies
China’s food industry employs more than 10 million people and keeps growing. BNBU connects Food Science and Technology students directly with this industry through partnerships with government agencies, food companies, and multinational corporations.
Every summer and winter break, BNBU arranges internship opportunities with organizations including China National Analytical Center in Guangzhou, Guangzhou Customs Technology Center, Zhuhai Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and food manufacturers like AAFUD Industry and Guangdong Longxing Food. Students can also seek their own placements.
The program also organizes field studies to production facilities and quality control laboratories so you can see food science principles in action across the entire supply chain.
For international exposure, BNBU partners with Trier University of Applied Science in Germany to offer a summer course on dairy and meat technology. The program runs in English for third-year students and includes lectures, lab work, company visits, and cultural experiences.
BNBU also offers summer programs in France, the United States, Vienna, Canada, Switzerland, Hong Kong, and Thailand, giving you chances to explore food science practices around the world while building your global network.
Career Prospects and Graduate Success
China’s food industry has exploded since economic reforms began in the 1980s. Rising living standards and the globalization of food industries have created high demand for well-trained food professionals. Graduates from BNBU’s FST program find opportunities in diverse sectors including food manufacturing, public health institutions, government regulatory agencies, food service providers, and educational institutions.
Since the program teaches in English, graduates are particularly valuable to Chinese companies focused on international business and foreign companies entering the Chinese market. The “whole person education” approach at BNBU also develops leadership skills and teaches students to be responsible professionals beyond just technical expertise.
More than 74% of FST graduates pursue further studies at prestigious universities worldwide. Around 7.5% are currently enrolled in doctoral programs at famous overseas institutions, many with full scholarships. Graduate school acceptances include top universities such as Cornell University, Northwestern University, University of British Columbia, McGill University, University College London, and many others across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
For those entering the workforce directly, graduates have secured positions as government civil servants and technologists at multinational companies, applying their food science expertise to real-world challenges in food safety, product development, quality management, and nutrition.
Who Should Apply to this Program?
The Food Science and Technology program might be a good fit for you if any of the following apply to you.
- You are passionate about food and nutrition science.
- You are interested in sustainability and global food security challenges.
- You are looking to work in the growing Asian food industry.
- You want to pursue graduate studies in food science or related fields.
- You seek an international education experience with strong research opportunities.
However, these are merely a few examples. Numerous other opportunities are available, and the best choice is the one that resonates with you and aligns with your purpose.
The English-taught curriculum and international standards make it especially attractive for students planning to work across borders or continue their education abroad.
Admission Requirements
To apply for the Food Science and Technology program at BNBU, you must meet these requirements:
Basic Eligibility:
- Foreign nationality
- Minimum age of 18 years old
- High school graduation or equivalent
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 (semester GPA no less than 2.0)
- Study visa (X1) required for all degree-seeking international students
Application Documents:
- Passport copy
- Completed application form (signed by applicant and parents)
- Personal statement
- Curriculum Vitae
- Recommendation letter
- Bank statement
- Academic transcripts and graduation certificate in English
Students from all countries are eligible to apply. BNBU will provide the necessary visa documents (JW202 Form) for admitted students.
Check out the BNBU admissions guide here.
Tuition and Living Costs
Understanding the full cost of studying abroad helps you plan better. Here’s what to expect at BNBU:
Tuition: 110,000 RMB (approximately 15,120 USD) per year for bachelor’s programs
Accommodation:
- 4,000 RMB per year (3-bed room)
- 6,400 RMB per year (2-bed room)
Insurance: 600 RMB per year
Living Expenses: Approximately 1,800-3,000 RMB per month, covering meals, transportation, entertainment, and other costs
Compared to similar programs in Western countries, BNBU offers excellent value while maintaining international academic standards.
Scholarship Opportunities
BNBU offers various scholarship opportunities for international students to help make quality education more accessible. These include early-bird scholarships, full-tuition scholarships, diverse scholarships for outstanding students, and more!
Find the full list of scholarships for international students in this article.
Looking Ahead
As the global population grows and food security challenges intensify, the world needs more trained food scientists who understand both the technical and business sides of the industry. BNBU’s Food Science and Technology program offers a unique opportunity to gain this expertise in one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing food markets, all while studying in English at international standards.
Whether your goal is to develop innovative food products, ensure food safety, improve nutrition, or pursue cutting-edge research, this program provides the foundation you need.
Learn more about BNBU’s Food Science and Technology program and start your application today.
Continue reading:
- Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) Updates for 2026 Intake – Admissions Guide, Deadlines, Tuition, and Early-Bird Scholarships
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- Inspiring Student Experiences from BNBU’s Global Community
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- Study Food Science in English in China: Bachelor’s Degree at BNBU - November 30, 2025
- 2026 Intake Is Now Open at BNBU with Full-Tuition Early-Bird Scholarship Opportunities - November 30, 2025