Gastronomy and Food Studies

Entry requirements

For entry requirements visit course page.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Explore the world of gastronomy through a unique interdisciplinary lens with the MSc Gastronomy and Food Studies. This one-of-a-kind programme offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding food’s cultural, social, and political impact, preparing you for dynamic roles in food policy, journalism, public health, and tourism.

Gain the skills and knowledge you’ll need to transform your passion for food into an impactful career.

Why study MSc Gastronomy and Food Studies at BNU?

An innovative degree

The field of food studies is becoming increasingly relevant as food intersects with major global issues such as sustainability, public health, and cultural identity. Studying gastronomy at a postgraduate level provides you with the skills and knowledge to critically examine these areas, making meaningful contributions to discussions on food systems, ethics, and the cultural impact of food on society.

This MSc Gastronomy and Food Studies degree programme equips you with analytical skills, research expertise, and practical applications, making you a versatile professional, capable of influencing change.

Delve into Industry

On this MSc Gastronomy and Food Studies degree, we work with several hotel, food, events and hospitality partners for mentoring, live briefs, placements, internships and visits. These include, but are not limited to; Marriott, The Ivy Collection, Vacherin, The Urban Pubs & Bars Company, The Fat Duck Group, Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, Melia Hotels, Red Carnation Hotels, Firmdale Hotels PLC, Scoffs Group UK, Hotelpartner and Harrods.

You will also benefit from the industry mentorship programme offered by our partner organisations. You’ll be allocated an industry mentor from one of our great partners, here you’ll have the opportunity to learn directly from successful hotel and hospitality leaders.

Accredited Course

Our portfolio of hotel and hospitality courses are accredited and linked to some huge industry bodies. If you decide to study one of our fast-paced degrees, you’ll benefit from our connection with the Institute of Hospitality Educational Membership Scheme, the world’s leading, award-winning, professional membership body for hospitality professionals around the globe.

We’re also part of the Council for Hospitality Management Education (CHME). Through this connection you’ll have the opportunity to get close to the industry while you study and gain work experience and build your professional networks.

Facilities

During your time studying on the MSc Gastronomy and Food Studies degree, you’ll have access to our High Wycombe Campus. Here you’ll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, as well as newly built study and social areas. Our Library is open 24/7 and offers a range of resources to support your studies. We also have a Student Learning Achievement Team, who offer tailored support with research skills, critical thinking and referencing . 

You’ll also be automatically a member of our Students’ Union, which was rated No.1 in the UK in the 2024 National Student Survey. We are the only university in the UK to offer free access to a huge range of events and entertainment,  CV building activities, as well as competitive and recreational sport and wellbeing activities to enrich your time with us as part of our ‘Big Deal’.

What will I study?

This MSc Gastronomy and Food Studies course offers a comprehensive and unique approach, blending historical, sociological, and policy perspectives on food studies. The programme’s core modules cover emerging issues in food policy, food writing, and tourism, as well as a substantial research project that allows you to explore your specific interests in depth. You’ll benefit from a curriculum that is both academic and practical, preparing you to enter or advance in diverse food-related careers.

Hands-on experience is critical to this degree. During your time study this postgraduate course you delve into key areas within the gastronomy and food sector, including food writing and journalism, and diet and public health – giving you the chance to apply your specialist knowledge.

At the core of this degree is sustainability and cultural responsibility. This underpinning theme prepares you to lead in an industry increasingly driven by ethical and sustainable practices.

As well as this you’ll also benefit from access to industry experts, guest lecturers, and potential internship connections, gaining real-world insights and networking opportunities to enhance their employability in a range of sectors.

Information for international students

For international information visit course page.

Fees and funding

For fees visit course page.