MSc International Food Business and Consumer Studies (IFBC)

The Master’s programme in International Food Business and Consumer Studies (IFBC) focuses on how value chains in the food industry can be designed to be both sustainable and consumer-oriented. Students analyse consumer trends, cultural differences and the role of regional and global markets. Sustainability runs like a thread through the entire course. Around 430 graduates from 56 countries have already completed the programme – and it is this diversity that continues to shape the course to this day. Different cultural perspectives come together, whether in discussions, projects or research work. This gives rise to new ideas and fresh perspectives on global food systems – practical, interconnected and with an international outlook. If you are looking for a programme that combines academic depth, real-world relevance, and a strong international community, this is the right place for you. Compulsory modules are: International Legislation on Consumer Protection and Food: Gain an in-depth understanding of EU institutions, food labelling, novel foods regulations, risk management, and trade barriers. International Organic Food Markets and Marketing: Build marketing strategies for global organic markets and understand key regulations. Food Product Development: Dive into product stages – from formulations and additives to testing, shelf life, and regulations – for innovative foods. Applied Research Project: Enhance your project management skills by leading research and development projects with external partners. Quality Management in Food Business: Optimise supply chains, manage risk safety, traceability, and processes in the food industry. Trends in Food Sciences and Sustainable Consumption: Explore food science, nutritional impacts across diets, and sustainability in raw materials and products. Consumer Behaviour and Consumer Science: Explore social and psychological drivers of consumer behaviour, consumption trends, and future patterns with a sustainability focus. Research Methods: Build foundations in social science research, analyse qualitative and quantitative data, and integrate theory, data, and interpretation. Electives (choose three): Assessing Food Quality; Digital Transformation in the Food Sector; Innovative Product Development; Innovation Management in the Food Sector; Quality Management and Certification for Organic Foods; Strategic Management; Sustainable Food Systems and Management Profile module: Choose a module closely aligned with the individual academic focus. Master's thesis  Programme structure Full-time over four semesters (start in October): three semesters of modules (14 total), one for your Master's thesis Teaching & Assessment Lectures, workshops, seminars, projects, and group work — especially in the Applied Research Project assessed via exams, reports, presentations, and practicals Joint degree 20+ years of success by  Kassel University — Witzenhausen campus (Organic Agricultural Sciences) and  Fulda University of Applied Sciences (Nutritional, Food, and Consumer Sciences)  Classes are split between Witzenhausen and Fulda campuses. PDF Download