College of Science and Health

What careers are available with a degree in Food and Nutrition Management?

Food and Nutrition Managers work in a variety of settings, including:

• Restaurants 
• Hotels 
• School cafeterias 
• Bakeries 
• Hospitals 
• Long-term care facilities 
• Companies or corporations 
• Factories 
• The military 
• Spas 
• Cruise Ships 
• Adventure and entertainment companies 
• Air transportation
• Drinking places/pubs

What is the job outlook?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, job growth for food service managers from 2019-2029 is estimated to be 1 percent. However, as compared to other states, Illinois has a higher share of employment than average. In 2020, Illinois had the fourth highest employment level of food service managers, third highest concentration of food management jobs, and the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin Metropolitan Division was the second highest level of employment for food service managers.

“A postsecondary degree is preferred by higher end full-service restaurants and for many corporate positions, such as managing a regional or national restaurant chain or franchise or overseeing contract food service operations at sports and entertainment complexes, school campuses and institutional facilities.” (Careerplanner.com) Those with both work experience in food service and a bachelor’s degree (e.g., food service management) should have an edge when competing for jobs.

Why Major in Food and Nutrition Management at Benedictine University?

• Benedictine University is a highly ranked university.
• The program is  aligned with food and nutrition management competencies. This new Food and Nutrition Management major at Benedictine University was designed by practitioners and educators in food and nutrition management to prepare students to meet the competencies of food and nutrition managers so program graduates have the opportunity to pursue  related certifications.
• The program is unique in its emphasis on the science of food as basis for manipulation and healthier eating, the inclusion of sustainability and affiliation with a strong business management program.
• You will experience concrete, practical and  quality learning. We will involve you in your educational endeavors. We strongly believe in hands-on learning to provide real-life immersion in topics. Nutrition and management courses use multiple methods of interaction and assessment, including authentic case studies, presentations, lesson plans and discussions. Food and Nutrition Management majors have the opportunity to gain real on-the-job experience, confidence and a professional network through the  field experience.
• You will reap the benefits of smaller class sizes by seizing opportunities for greater engagement with faculty in the classroom, more active learning and networking with peers and future colleagues.

How do I know if the Bachelor of Arts in Food and Nutrition Management is right for me?

• You enjoy learning about food and business.
• You want to help safeguard the health and safety of those eating out.
• You are self-directed and enjoy working as a member of a team.
• You are interested in a fast-paced and satisfying career that combines customer communications, culinary skills, knowledge of food science and nutrition, and business  management.
• You want a career that can grow and evolve with your interests and talents.
• You may even envision yourself managing your own food or beverage establishment. According to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, about one in three food service managers were self-employed  in 2019.

Program Mission

The mission of the undergraduate Food and Nutrition Management major program is to provide and promote a high-quality education for the preparation of competent future food and nutrition service management professionals. The program provides learners with evidence-based comprehensive knowledge and applications of food science, food sustainability, facility operations and business management to promote the health and well-being of people served in hospitals, restaurants and the food industry.

Program Objectives

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Food and Nutrition Management, the student will successfully:

1. Translate Nutrition Science into Food Intake.
2. Demonstrate application of food science.
3. Demonstrate applications of food service management systems.
4. Demonstrate effective communication skills.

Second Degree Program

A Second Degree is available to those who enter the program following completion of a bachelor’s degree elsewhere. As a minimum, all major and cognate courses required for the major must be completed in order to complete a Second Degree in Food and Nutrition Management. Refer to the Undergraduate Catalog for additional details.