MSc in Food Science & Human Nutrition by Coursework
Are there any scholarship for this programme?
This programme is a 100% self-financing programme by default. In NUS, the only scholarship available at present is the NUS ASEAN Master’s Scholarship, which is a continuation of the DiscoverNUS scheme for international candidates from selected regions.
Tuition fee rebates are also extended to eligible Singaporeans and SPRs.
More information can be found on https://www.fst.nus.edu.sg/education/postgraduate-programme/admission-information/msc-in-food-science-human-nutrition/ under the tab “Tuition Fees”
What does it mean by “relevant work experience” for applicants of other science background? Do I need at least 2 years of relevant work experience in order to apply for the programme?
Relevant work experience means your existing or previous job experience(s) which you may have used technical skills and knowledge in the area of food science and technology.
If you do not have relevant work experience, you may still try to apply. The entry requirement can be flexible depending on the competitiveness of the applicant cohort.
I have graduated from my university many years ago and I do not have academic referees. Who can I nominate instead?
If you have left school for some years and are unable to submit academic referees, you may like to nominate your employers as an alternative.
Do I need to submit a GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) score?
GRE score is not applicable for MSc in Food Science & Human Nutrition by Coursework.
Does this degree allow me to practice as a dietitian in Singapore?
MSc in Food Science and Human Nutrition is not a specialised course in dietetics. In addition, we do not provide clinical internship training in our curriculum, which is a requirement in order to qualify as a dietitian in Singapore.
What are the career options after graduating from this programme?
Our past graduates have managed to secure employment in MNCs, food manufacturing/ingredients/testing companies, research institutes and etc. Some examples of job roles are product development officer, project/application specialist, research associate, engineer, QA Analyst and laboratory assistant. We also have students who went to start their own business, or pursue PhD in our department immediately after graduation.
Am I allowed to read cross department/faculty courses of my interest when enrolled in this course?
No, you are only allowed to read courses that count towards the 40 unit graduation requirement.
MSc/PhD by Research
Is GRE a pre-requisite for admission?
GRE is optional. However, do note that evidence of strong quantitative, verbal, and analytical skills through GRE scores, as well as indicators of research skills and experience will significantly strengthen your application.
What is the GRE score requirement?
The minimum score requirement for GRE (General Test) is 320 for Verbal & Quantitative sections, and 3.5 for the Analytical section.
Please quote our University code 0677 and the specific department code for FST 0107.
Is work experience mandatory for MSc/PhD programmes?
No, it is not mandatory.
Can I study PhD immediately after Undergraduate studies?
Yes, you can apply if you have a good relevant Bachelor’s Degree. If you are an NUS graduate, you should have at least a 2nd Upper Honours/Honours (Distinction).
Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
The application portal only allows applicants to indicate interest to apply for one scholarship. This is subject to availability and are given based on a track record of academic excellence.
As these awards are highly competitive, we only offer scholarships for PhD programme and not for MSc by Research Programme.
Kindly refer here for more information on scholarships for postgraduate programmes.
Is there a bond tied to the Research Scholarship?
Currently, there is no bond for the NUS Research Scholarship offered to successful applicants. However, students are required to fulfill the requirements of the Graduate Assistantship Programme during the tenure period of the scholarship.
Do I need to indicate a proposed supervisor in my application?
You should indicate a proposed supervisor in the application form so as to facilitate our processing later on. You may refer to https://www.fst.nus.edu.sg/our-people/ to see which of our faculty member’s research expertise is in line with your interests. Please note that Adjunct Staff, Research Fellow, and Instructor are not eligible to supervise. For applicants applying for the PhD programme and would like to be considered for NUS Research Scholarship, the proposed supervisor has to be Asst/Assoc/Full Prof.
General Questions
What is the difference between Coursework-based and Research-based Programme?
Coursework programme involves the attendance of formal classes, seminars, laboratories and written examinations. Some programmes may also require the writing of a dissertation based on a project the candidate has undertaken.
Research programmes provide training in a particular subject area through independent investigations, study and experiment, culminating in the preparation of a thesis setting out the findings of the research undertaken. Research candidates may also be required to attend appropriate lectures and sit for written examinations.
What is the maximum age to apply for postgraduate study?
There is no maximal or minimal age limitation.
Is TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) a pre-requisite for admission?
Applicants whose native tongue or medium of university instruction is not English should submit TOEFL or IELTS score as evidence of their proficiency in the English language. Alternatively, applicants should supply a documentary proof that the medium of instruction for their first degree was conducted 100% in English.
How do I register for TOEFL/IELTS/GRE?
You may communicate with the organisations conducting the respective tests.
For TOEFL, please quote our University code 9087 and department code 99. (N.B. There is no specific department code for FST in TOEFL, 99 is a code for miscellaneous category).
What is the validity period of TOEFL/IELTS score reports?
TOEFL/IELTS score reports are only valid for two years after the test and the validity period should not expire at the time when you submit the application online.
What is the minimum TOEFL/IELTS score required for postgraduate programmes?
A minimum TOEFL score of 85 is required for the internet-based test; while a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 is required.
Do I need to mail my hardcopy supporting documents to the University?
No. Please ensure that you upload all the supporting documents to the Graduate Admission Portal before you submit your application.
Why is my application checklist crossed even though I have uploaded the supporting documents?
The application checklist is not updated automatically when you submit your application. You will be contacted by email if there are any missing documents from your submission.