Honours Bachelor of Food Studies Program (H317)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
The first four-year Honours Bachelor of Food Studies degree in Canada combining culinary arts and a comprehensive food studies curriculum.
Program Overview
Food choices are no longer about what we will have for dinner. Behind those choices are the biggest challenges of our time: How do we address chronic disease, waste, climate change, rapid urbanization, technological change, hunger and inequity? Everyone in the food sector must deal with these challenges and opportunities; this is the world that the next generation of food workers is entering. The Honours Bachelor of Food Studies degree program will bring a new focus on justice and equity, sustainability and health, and a new awareness of how these societal issues can be analyzed and resolved.
Full Description
The food sector is always changing, particularly when it comes to hospitality and culinary arts. This constant change has reinforced the need for a more holistic approach to culinary education – one that allows students to examine the food system while mastering a variety of culinary techniques.
The Honours Bachelor of Food Studies program provides the food leaders of tomorrow with the skills, insights and knowledge to succeed in this rapidly changing field. It offers extensive career pathways for food service professionals while providing the food sector with leaders who can thrive in both for-profit and nonprofit organizations.
Graduates will be positioned to succeed in a wide range of food-related occupations including roles in culinary, education, tourism, recreation, health, food security, sustainability, economic development, agriculture, public policy and research. There are growing opportunities for careers informed by both culinary experience and versatile critical thinking.
Toronto provides a unique setting for this program because of its wealth of multicultural and Indigenous food traditions. In the classroom and beyond, students will be introduced to the vibrant world of food in a culturally diverse and inclusive environment. Students will participate in a paid co-op placement focused on the application of culinary and food animation skills. In addition, throughout the program, selected courses will include community-engaged learning opportunities.
Your Field Education Options
Take part in a unique and robust externship. The Honours Bachelor of Food Studies embraces experiential learning as a key component of the program delivery. There is a 14-week 420-hour Work-Integrated Learning opportunity between the second and third years. Students will also take field trips in the surrounding area and complete two 16-hour community-engaged learning placements as part of their coursework. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue independent industry work experience opportunities they believe will provide the learning experiences they value and meet the program's learning outcomes. This valuable work experience can in turn be added to your resumé.
In addition to more formal on-the-job work experience, George Brown College strives to provide learning opportunities with real-world challenges and customers. Find out more about field education at the Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Graduates of this program will be prepared to continue their studies post-degree in master's programs in the fields of environmental studies, food policy, justice studies, public health, gastronomy, education, community development, communication and media studies.
Graduates may also be eligible for direct entry into the Culinary Arts – Italian and French pastry programs and Food and Nutrition Management program.
Please contact the program coordinator for further information.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF1304 | Introduction to Food Studies I (Smart Serve Certificate included) |
| HOSF1267 | Culinary Skills I |
| HOSF1269 | Gastronomic Theory I |
| HOSF1305 | Communicating About Food |
| HOSF2305 | Food and Beverage Cost Control |
| HOSF1145 | Sanitation |
| HOSF1146 | Emergency First Aid/Heartsaver CPR (weekend course) |
| HOST1068 | Smart Serve |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF1287 | WHMIS |
| HOSF1306 | Introduction to Food Studies II |
| HOSF1283 | Butchery and Café Production |
| HOSF1293 | Culinary Skills II |
| HOSF1295 | Gastronomic Theory II |
| HOSF1302 | Food Literacy |
| Lower Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF2303 | Food for Special Events |
| HOSF2307 | Patisserie Production Management* |
| HOSF2308 | Food from the Land |
| HOSF2310 | Food Studies Research Methods |
| Lower Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF2402 | Essential Flavours of the Modern Kitchen |
| HOSF2403 | Food from the Sea |
| HOSF2405 | Indigenous Food Traditions |
| HOSF2409 | Food Movements |
| Lower Liberal Studies Elective |
Work experience scheduled between semesters 4 and 5.
SEMESTER 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF3502 | Nutritional Epidemiology and Public Policy |
| HOSF3504 | Food Policy and Law |
| HOSF3506 | The Evolving Kitchen |
| HOSF3508 | Global Food and Beverage History |
| Lower Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF3606 | Food and the Nonprofit Sector |
| HOSF3509 | Sustainability in Food Service |
| HOSF3607 | Sustainable Consumption |
| HOSF3608 | Canadian Food History and Culture |
| Upper Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 7
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF4702 | Global Food Politics |
| HOSF4704 | Food, Equity and the City |
| HOSF4706 | Chefs as Agents of Change |
| HOSF4708 | Capstone I (Food Studies) |
| Upper Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 8
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF4802 | Special Topics in Food Studies |
| HOSF4806 | Strategies for the Black Box |
| HOSF4809 | Capstone II (Food Studies) |
| HOSF4810 | The Future of Food |
| Upper Liberal Studies Elective |
* seven-week course
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Articulate the interconnected structures and functions of food systems at the local, national and international levels.
- Analyze social, cultural, political and environmental influences on current and emerging food-related theory, policy and practice.
- Recommend informed responses to both practical and scholarly issues and challenges using insights from food systems theory and the study of global cuisine.
- Acquire foundational culinary skill proficiency and operational knowledge appropriate to enter into the culinary industry.
- Integrate a healthy, equitable, and sustainable food systems perspective into culinary theory and practice.
- Construct coherent arguments to address debates within the broad field of food studies.
- Appraise research methodologies used across disciplines related to food studies.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of formats appropriate to academic, government, non-profit, business and media environments.
- Articulate how uncertainty, ambiguity and limits to knowledge influence perception and interpretation of debates in food studies and consider issues from multiple perspectives.
- Demonstrate curiosity, initiative, integrity, collaboration, and social responsibility in personal and professional settings related to food.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in fall 2022 and at later dates.
** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2023 and at later dates.
† Fees for this program do not include the cost of the co-op work term.
† Additional Cost
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Uniform | $290 |
| Knives and small wares | $500–$700 |
| Books | $1,600 |
| Black safety shoes | $110-$160 |
View the Full Equipment List (PDF)
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses and any other selection criteria outlined below:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent with six grade 12 university (U) or university/college (M) courses, including grade 12 (U) English
- English grade 12 (U) with a grade of 65 per cent or higher
- An overall average of 65 per cent in the six grade 12 (U) or (M) courses
OR:
Mature student status (19 years of age or older with no OSSD)***
- grade 12 (U) English with a grade of 65% or higher
- post-secondary courses in English will be considered (certain courses only)
- Subject to competition, applicants may be required to have grades/averages above the minimum score.
***There is no mature testing in the required credits for degree programs. Mature applicants must have the English credit required. Mature student applicants who require Grade 12 university (U) credits for their application to a degree program may consider completing our GBC Degree Preparation (U-level) course at no extra cost. Additional information on where and how to upgrade can be found on the English and math upgrading pages.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
George Brown has been granted a consent by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities to offer this applied degree for a 7-year term starting December 21, 2020. The college shall ensure that all students admitted to the above-named program during the period of consent will have the opportunity to complete the program within a reasonable time frame.
English language proficiency
George Brown College ESL level 9; TOEFL 84 overall and 21 in each skill band (online); IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.0 in each skill band; MELAB 85; CAEL overall 70 (writing 60).
Proficiency in English communication is necessary for success in this program.
Please visit georgebrown.ca/englishproficiency for more details.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.
FINANCIAL/FEES
For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.
HONOURS BACHELOR of FOOD STUDIES (H317)
For general Chef School inquiries, please contact chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.
Honours Bachelor of Food Studies Program (H317)
Apply Now:
Domestic StudentsProgram Description
Leadership Claims
The first four-year Honours Bachelor of Food Studies degree in Canada combining culinary arts and a comprehensive food studies curriculum.
Program Overview
Food choices are no longer about what we will have for dinner. Behind those choices are the biggest challenges of our time: How do we address chronic disease, waste, climate change, rapid urbanization, technological change, hunger and inequity? Everyone in the food sector must deal with these challenges and opportunities; this is the world that the next generation of food workers is entering. The Honours Bachelor of Food Studies degree program will bring a new focus on justice and equity, sustainability and health, and a new awareness of how these societal issues can be analyzed and resolved.
Full Description
The food sector is always changing, particularly when it comes to hospitality and culinary arts. This constant change has reinforced the need for a more holistic approach to culinary education – one that allows students to examine the food system while mastering a variety of culinary techniques.
The Honours Bachelor of Food Studies program provides the food leaders of tomorrow with the skills, insights and knowledge to succeed in this rapidly changing field. It offers extensive career pathways for foodservice professionals, while providing the food sector with leaders who can thrive in both for-profit and non-profit organizations.
Graduates will be positioned to succeed in a wide range of food-related occupations including roles in culinary, education, tourism, recreation, health, food security, sustainability, economic development, agriculture, public policy and research. There are growing opportunities for careers informed by both culinary experience and versatile critical thinking.
Toronto provides a unique setting for this program because of its wealth of multicultural and Indigenous food traditions. In the classroom and beyond, students will be introduced to the vibrant world of food in a culturally diverse and inclusive environment. Students will participate in a paid co-op placement focused on the application of culinary and food animation skills. In addition, throughout the program, selected courses will include community-engaged learning opportunities.
Your Field Education Options
Take part in a unique and robust externship. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue independent industry work experience opportunities they believe will provide the learning experiences they value and meet the learning outcomes of the program. This valuable work experience can in turn be added to your resumé.
In addition to more formal on-the-job work experience, George Brown College strives to provide learning opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at the Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF1304 | Introduction to Food Studies I (Smart Serve Certificate included) |
| HOSF1267 | Culinary Skills I |
| HOSF1269 | Gastronomic Theory I (Sanitation Certificate included) |
| HOSF1305 | Communicating About Food |
| HOSF2305 | Food and Beverage Cost Control |
| HOSF1146 | Emergency First Aid/Heartsaver CPR (weekend course) |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF1306 | Introduction to Food Studies II |
| HOSF1283 | Butchery and Café Production |
| HOSF1293 | Culinary Skills II |
| HOSF1295 | Gastronomic Theory II (WHMIS Certificate included) |
| HOSF1302 | Food Literacy |
| Lower Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF2303 | Food for Special Events |
| HOSF2307 | Patisserie Production Management |
| HOSF2308 | Food from the Land |
| HOSF2310 | Food Studies Research Methods |
| Lower Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF2402 | Essential Flavours of the Modern Kitchen |
| HOSF2403 | Food from the Sea |
| HOSF2405 | Indigenous Food Traditions |
| HOSF2409 | Food Movements |
| Lower Liberal Studies Elective |
Work experience scheduled between semesters 4 and 5.
SEMESTER 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF3502 | Nutritional Epidemiology and Public Policy |
| HOSF3504 | Food Policy and Law |
| HOSF3506 | The Evolving Kitchen |
| HOSF3508 | Global Food and Beverage History |
| Lower Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF3606 | Food and the Non-Profit Sector |
| HOSF3509 | Sustainability in Food Service |
| HOSF3607 | Sustainable Consumption |
| HOSF3608 | Canadian Food History and Culture |
| Upper Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 7
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF4702 | Global Food Politics |
| HOSF4704 | Food, Equity, and the City |
| HOSF4706 | Chefs as Agents of Change |
| HOSF4708 | Capstone I (Food Studies) |
| Upper Liberal Studies Elective |
SEMESTER 8
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| HOSF4802 | Special Topics in Food Studies |
| HOSF4806 | Strategies for the Black Box |
| HOSF4809 | Capstone II (Food Studies) |
| HOSF4810 | The Future of Food |
| Upper Liberal Studies Elective |
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Articulate the interconnected structures and functions of food systems at the local, national and international levels.
- Analyze social, cultural, political and environmental influences on current and emerging food-related theory, policy and practice.
- Recommend informed responses to both practical and scholarly issues and challenges using insights from food systems theory and the study of global cuisine.
- Acquire foundational culinary skill proficiency and operational knowledge appropriate to entry into the culinary industry.
- Integrate a healthy, equitable, and sustainable food systems perspective into culinary theory and practice.
- Construct coherent arguments to address debates within the broad field of food studies.
- Appraise research methodologies used across disciplines related to food studies.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of formats appropriate to academic, government, non-profit, business and media environments.
- Articulate how uncertainty, ambiguity and limits to knowledge influence perception and interpretation of debates in food studies and consider issues from multiple perspectives.
- Demonstrate curiosity, initiative, integrity, collaboration, and social responsibility in personal and professional settings related to food.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
† Additional Cost
View the Full Equipment List (PDF)
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Uniform | $290 |
| Knives and small wares | $500-$700 |
| Books | $500-$1000 |
| Black safety shoes | $110-$160 |
*Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in fall 2021 and at later dates.
† Fees for this program do not include the cost of the co-op work term.
‡ Students should also expect to pay approximately $500 for textbooks and $100 for field trips and industry site visits per semester. International students please check with the International Centre at 416-415-5000, ext. 2115.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses and any other selection criteria outlined below:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent with six Grade 12 University (U) or University/College (M) courses, including Grade 12 (U) English
- English Grade 12 (U) with a grade of 65% or higher
- An overall average of 65% in the six Grade 12 (U) or (M) courses
OR:
Mature student status (19 years of age or older with no OSSD)***
- Grade 12 (U) English with a grade of 65% or higher
- Post-secondary courses in English will be considered (certain courses only)
***There is no mature testing in the required credits for degree programs. Mature applicants must have the English credit required. Mature student applicants who require Grade 12 University (U) credits for their application to a degree program may consider completing our GBC Degree Preparation (U-level) Course at no extra cost. Additional information on where and how to upgrade can be found on the English upgrading page.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
George Brown has been granted a consent by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities to offer this applied degree for a 7-year term starting December 21, 2020. The college shall ensure that all students admitted to the above-named program during the period of consent will have the opportunity to complete the program within a reasonable time frame.
English language proficiency
George Brown College ESL level 9; TOEFL 84 overall and 21 in each skill band (Online); IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.0 in each skill band; MELAB 85; CAEL overall 70 (writing 60).
Proficiency in English communication is necessary for success in this program.
Please visit georgebrown.ca/englishproficiency for more details.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students apply through Ontario Colleges
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.
FINANCIAL/FEES
For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.
HONOURS BACHELOR of FOOD STUDIES (H317)
For general Chef School inquiries, please contact chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.
