Doctor of Food Science and Management
Entrance Year Sept 2025
Programme Code 15059-DFT
Stream Code DFT (full-time)
Mode of Study Mixed mode
Normal Duration 3 years (full-time)
Fund Type Self-financed
Credits Required for Graduation 52 credits
Initial Registration Credits 6 credits for local and non-local students
Tuition Fees HK$13,200 per credit for local and non-local students. Tuition fee will not be charged for the 1-credit subject, Academic Integrity and Ethics in Science.
Programme Leader(s)
Programme Leader
Prof. Sheng CHEN
DVM, MPVM, PhD
Deputy Programme Leader
Dr James Kar-Hei FANG
BSc, MPhil, CBiol, PhD
Remarks
Early applications are encouraged.Aims and Characteristics
The Doctor of Food Science and Management (DFSM) programme is designed to address the evolving needs of the food industry, where complex challenges demand professionals who possess advanced scientific knowledge and exceptional management skills. The DFSM programme is established with the following aims and characteristics:
- to equip professionals with advanced scientific methodologies and management competencies that are tailored to the intricacies of the food industry;
- to foster innovative thinking, ethical decision-making and strategic leadership within the dynamic and competitive food landscape;
- to empower graduates to drive positive transformations, ranging from sustainable sourcing and production to responsible marketing and consumer education;
- to cultivate a global perspective, enabling graduates to navigate diverse cultural and regulatory environments.
Recognition and Prospects
The DFSM programme will meet the community needs of professionals with expertise in both science and management. Experienced professionals from various sectors of the food industry will be able to integrate advanced scientific methods and management skills after completing this programme, propelling themselves into strategic leadership roles. Outlined below are some of the programme's highlights:
- The DFSM programme stands out as a unique taught doctoral degree programme worldwide that specifically combines food science and business management;
- This programme primarily targets business leaders and senior management professionals in the food industry within the Greater China Region and beyond;
- The programme curriculum effectively integrates the key components of food science and industry management, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of both disciplines;
- The community of DFSM alumni, with their diverse backgrounds and senior roles in the food industry, creates a vibrant and powerful platform for fostering partnerships, business expansion and professional growth;
- Classes are normally scheduled on weekends.
Admission
Entrance Requirement
Alternatively, applicants in senior management positions with a recognised first degree and membership of a recognised professional body in food science, nutrition, management, business administration, or a related field, or those with exceptional experience and outstanding contributions in the industry, may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.
English Language Requirement^
For non-native English speakers who have received their Master's degree, Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualifications from institutions where the medium of instruction is not English, it is necessary to provide one of the following proficiency test results to meet the minimum English language requirement for admission purposes:
- a score of 80 or above in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Internet-Based Test taken within two years; or
- an overall band score of 6.0 or above in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Module taken within two years; or
- a pass in an English written test organised by the English Language Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and satisfactory performance in the admission interview.
^The requirement is subject to periodic review based on the latest English language requirement for admission purposes as announced by the PolyU Academic Registry.
Curriculum
| Core subjects (3 credit each) |
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| Elective subjects (3 credits each), any three |
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| Residential and thesis subjects |
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*The programme structure, list of subjects, subject names, subject contents and subject offering semesters are regularly reviewed and subject to potential changes.
#If students choose not to take DFSM Thesis II, they have the option to pursue an exit award of Master of Science in Food Science and Management Research Studies (Programme Code: 15059-MFT or 15059-MPT; 35 credits required for graduation).
Enquiries
