Master of Food Science (439FS) // Attributes, outcomes and skills

Intended learning outcomes

In this course, students will

• Be able to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in the interdiscplinary field of food science
• Develop the cognitive, technical and creative skills necessary to underpin understanding of recent innovations in food science
• Be exposed to advanced research topics and practical applications within the disciplines of food science, and develop the skills necessary to plan and execute an independent piece of research and communicate the impact of this work
• Develop an understanding of problem solving and research methodologies and demonstrate personal accountability by applying solutions to diverse challenges facing food production, supply and security
• Interpret, critically analyse and evaluate data generated through research activities in order to effectively understand and implement improved systems within food science
• Investigate and apply innovative approaches to the contemporary, interdisciplinary management of commercial food systems
• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the specialised disciplines of food science, emerging technologies and the relevance of these to the future food industry
• Demonstrate a critical understanding of environmental, economic, social and ethical factors related to food production in Australia and globally, with the cognitive, technical and creative skills necessary to communicate the information to a specialist and non-specialist audience

Generic skills

• A profound respect for truth, intellectual and professional integrity, and the ethics of scholarship
• Capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed learning and research
• An ability to derive, interpret and analyse social, technical or economic information from primary and other sources
• Awareness of and ability to utilise appropriate communication technology and methods for the storage, management and analysis of data
• Capacity for creativity and innovation, through the application of skills and knowledge
• Ability to integrate information across a relevant discipline to solve problems in applied situations
• Highly developed computer - based skills to allow for effective on-line learning and communication.
• Highly developed written communication skills to allow informed dialogue with individuals and groups from industry, government and the community
• Highly developed oral communication skills to allow informed dialogue and liaison with individuals and groups from industry, government and the community.
• Appreciation of social and cultural diversity from a regional to a global context
• Ability to participate effectively as a member of a team
• Ability to plan work, use time effectively and manage small projects

Graduate attributes

The Melbourne Experience enables our Graduates to become:

Academically excellent
Our Graduates will be expected to:

• Have a strong sense of intellectual integrity and the ethics of scholarship
• Have in-depth knowledge of their specialist discipline(s)
• Reach a high level of achievement in writing, generic research activities, problem-solving and communication
• Be critical and creative thinkers, with an aptitude for continued self directed learning
• Be adept at learning in a range of ways, including through information and communication technologies

Knowledgeable across disciplines

Our graduates will be expected to:

• Examine critically, synthesise and evaluate knowledge across a broad range of disciplines
• Expand their analytical and cognitive skills through learning experiences in diverse subjects
• Have the capacity to participate fully in collaborative learning and to confront unfamiliar problems
• Have a set of flexible and transferable skills for different types of employment

Leaders in communities

Our graduates will be expected to:

• Initiate and implement constructive change in their communities, including professions and workplaces
• Have excellent interpersonal and decision-making skills, including an awareness of personal strengths and limitations
• Mentor future generations of learners
• Engage in meaningful public discourse, with a profound awareness of community needs

Attuned to cultural diversity
Our graduates will be expected to:

• Value different cultures
• Be well-informed citizens able to contribute to their communities wherever they choose to live and work
• Have an understanding of the social and cultural diversity in our community
• Respect Indigenous knowledge, cultures and values

Active global citizens
Our graduates will be expected to:

• Accept social and civic responsibilities
• Be advocates for improving the sustainability of the environment
• Have a broad global understanding, with a high regard for human rights, equality and ethics