Kufos introduces five-year integrated food science programme

Kochi: Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) launched a five-year integrated master's programme in food science and technology for the academic year 2026-27. The programme, introduced under four-year undergraduate programme (FYUGP) framework, aims to equip students with industry-oriented skills and research exposure in food sector.A university official said the course is designed under an outcome-based education model, focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, competency development and experiential learning. Students completing the programme could seamlessly progress towards a master's degree, with options for honours and research tracks.The curriculum covers areas including food chemistry, microbiology, food processing, food engineering, nutrition and quality assurance. It also incorporates emerging fields such as functional foods, nutraceuticals, artificial intelligence in food systems, nanotechnology and sustainable food processing."The programme also gives emphasis to entrepreneurship, innovation, intellectual property rights and digital skills. Students will undergo internships, live projects and field-based training as part of its experiential and work-integrated learning model," said a university official.The official said completion of the course would give graduates opportunities in food processing industries, food safety and quality assurance, product development, supply chain management and sectors such as marine bioactives and nutraceuticals. The programme will also provide scope for specialisation in seafood processing and blue economy-linked food systems.Kufos offers a wide range of courses across its faculties, including fisheries science, ocean science and technology, fisheries management and fisheries engineering. Postgraduate options include multiple specialisations in MFSc and MSc programmes, along with LLM, MBA, MTech and PhD courses. The university has also earmarked two seats in all postgraduate programmes for NRI candidates. Applications can be submitted online through official admission portal https://www.admisssion.kufos.ac.in.The university extended last date for submission of applications for its undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD programmes to May 19.