Interdisciplinary Curriculum
The BA and BS in Food Studies are designed for students seeking a bachelor’s degree as a terminal degree or as a step toward graduate study. The AAS in Food Studies is designed for students looking to enter the job market in the food sector, professionals in the food and hospitality industry, and student chefs who want to integrate their existing skills with a deeper knowledge of cultural, social, and environmental issues connected to food. Students in either pathway take required courses in the curriculum and electives from around the university. The degree can be earned online, in person, or through a combination of both. Food Studies courses—offered both online and on campus—examine a wide range of subjects, ranging from structural aspects of the food system, such as policy, environment, and health, to specific topics such as food design, mushroom foraging, urban agriculture, or music.
View BA and BS curriculum
View AAS curriculum
Beyond coursework, for students at the New York City campus, NYC also serves as your laboratory for learning, providing unparalleled opportunities to explore contemporary food issues. NYC has one of the largest wholesale food markets in the nation and is headquarters to numerous non-governmental organizations with interests in food, health, and the environment. The New School is one block (a five-minute walk!) away from Union Square Greenmarket, the largest farmers' market in the city. Food Studies students are encouraged to integrate aspects of New York City’s rich food and agriculture culture and policy landscape into class projects, internships, and self-directed learning.
Career Paths
A degree in food studies prepares you to begin or advance your career in food systems fields in areas including food policy research and advocacy, environmentally sustainable agriculture, urban policy analysis and management, food marketing and distribution, food media, public relations, business administration for governments and NGOs, education, research, and food and culinary businesses. AAS students can also proceed to earn a BA or BS in Food Studies or a related discipline at The New School.
Partnerships with Culinary Schools and Community Colleges
The New School collaborates with culinary schools to provide opportunities for culinary graduates to continue their studies by earning an AAS, a BA, or a BS in Food Studies.
Graduates from certain culinary schools can earn up to 22 credits toward their AAS, BA, or BS degree through this transfer agreement. To learn more about possibilities, including terms and conditions, please write to the Admission team at [email protected] or the Food Studies program at [email protected].