Course summary
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. *Please note this course is Subject to Validation. 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. 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.
Assessment method
We adopt a research-informed, industry-centric teaching and learning approach. This includes classic lectures and seminars, as well innovative teaching methods such as real-world case studies, hands-on projects and practical work experience. We balance the academic requirements of a master’s degree with practical skills and industry experience. You will benefit from our strong employer, industry, and trade association links as well as case studies, debates, competitions, masterclasses, and placement opportunities with our industry partners. You’ll learn from lecturers with years of industry and academic expertise. Many of whom are research-active, and are involved in a wide range of research areas, from green corporate reputation to sustainable hospitality management, sustainable business behaviour and customer attitude. You will be assessed through a range of traditional and innovative assessment methods, including: essays reports debates student-led seminars pitches live briefs podcasts case studies industry projects Dragon-Den style assessments And creative live presentations. Guest speakers are invited to deliver sessions, so you can learn from their expertise and insights. Our strong links with industry professionals and trade associations ensure that you will have access to unique guest talks, networking events, industry trade shows and seminars. We encourage you to attend free networking events offered by our school and our partner organisations, to enable you to build strategic cultural capital that is so valuable for being a successful leader in this fast-evolving industry.
How to apply
International applicants
https://www.bucks.ac.uk/study/international
Entry requirements
Undergraduate degree
English language requirements
Test | Grade | Additional details |
---|---|---|
IELTS (Academic) | 6 | We require an IELTS score of 6.0 (with no element lower that 5.5) or a recognised equivalent. |
If English is not your first language or if you have studied in a non-majority English-speaking country, then you will typically be required to demonstrate your English language ability (speaking, listening, reading & writing) by way of a test such as IELTS.
BNU English Language Requirements
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
England | £10500 | Whole course |
Northern Ireland | £10500 | Whole course |
Scotland | £10500 | Whole course |
Wales | £10500 | Whole course |
Channel Islands | £10500 | Whole course |
Republic of Ireland | £10500 | Whole course |
EU | £15550 | Whole course |
International | £15550 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
Buckinghamshire New University
Queen Alexandra Road
High Wycombe
HP11 2JZ