Food Business
Online Master’s Degree
Lead the Food Industry with a Master’s Degree in Food Business
Your career success—and impact—in today’s food, beverage, and hospitality industry depends on a deep understanding of increasingly complex systems. That’s why you’ll find CIA graduates in nearly every corner of the food world, from research and development to health policy to environmental science. And, of course, owning and managing food businesses.
In this renowned business program, you’ll hone the skills you need to successfully assess market opportunities, pitch investors and senior executives, and spearhead the next food movement. Unlike general MBA programs, our master’s in Food Business program combines decades of thought leadership in sustainability, innovation, wellness, and food ethics with traditional business topics such as leadership, finance, human resources, product development, and marketing.
Ready to get started? Apply now.
Quick Facts
Next Start Date: Fall 2025
Application Deadline: June 15, 2025
Program Format: Online with three residencies
Program Duration: Two years
Total Credits: 30
Program Overview
Our master’s degree in Food Business offers students the tactical and strategic skills needed to pursue their ambitions. During the program you will:
- Focus on the leadership skills that inspire high-performing teams.
- Dive into topics such as marketing, branding, operations, food systems, and product development.
- Examine global forces like shifting demographics, technological advancements, ethical leadership, and the growing consumer demand for sustainability.
- Gain invaluable insights from guest speakers in food and beverage, finance, marketing, operations, law, entrepreneurship, food concepts, and product development.
- Network with mentors, colleagues, professors, and thought leaders. You’ll form valuable connections throughout the program—during residencies, one-on-one calls with mentors, and attendance at the CIA-Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s Menus of Change® conference.
- Choose the track that best aligns with your career goals:
- Food Product/Concept: Learn how to turn a great idea into a scalable, profitable business.
- Restaurant/Food Service: Gain the strategic, financial, and operational knowledge needed to launch and manage a successful restaurant.
- Strategy/Management: Gain the skills to optimize operations and effectively lead your organization.
Careers
CIA’s master’s degree in Food Business is designed for leaders looking to advance their career in the food, beverage, and hospitality industry. Whether you are looking to be the boss of your own business or rise to the executive level at your current company, this is the program for you. Graduates from this program can become:
- Entrepreneurs launching or expanding a food business
- Food-product developers
- Consultants for food, beverage, and hospitality companies
- Executive chefs, food and beverage directors, or regional managers in contract foodservice, hotels, and restaurant groups
- Vice presidents, directors, and chefs in self-operated dining
- R&D specialists and brand managers in consumer-packaged goods companies
- Menu developers for multi-unit and meal kit companies
- Leaders who drive innovation and organizational change in large food, beverage, or hospitality companies
Change the industry. Apply now.
Curriculum Overview
The two-year, 30-credit Food Business master’s degree program includes:
- 27 credits in online courses covering subjects such as food systems, ethical leadership, business, and design thinking, as well as a capstone project developed with the help of faculty and advisors.
- 3 credits consisting of three short, campus-based residencies at major food hubs in California’s Napa Valley and New York’s Hudson Valley where you’ll experience hands-on learning, network with your cohort and experts, and present your Capstone Project.
- Choose from three specialized tracks that will deepen your focus on Food Products/Concepts, Restaurants/Foodservice, or Strategy/Management.
Speak to a Master’s Student
Want to find out more about our master’s program? Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
In-Person Residencies
The asynchronous online learning format of the Food Business master’s degree program is supported by three in-person residencies.
Your cohort will gather for hands-on learning and immersive experiences in the major food hubs of California’s Napa Valley and New York’s Hudson Valley including:
- Meet with leading entrepreneurs and get a behind-the-scenes look at how running a business can innovate the food, beverage, and hospitality industry.
- Attend the CIA-Harvard collaboration Menus of Change Leadership Summit and network with leading food industry leaders.
- Collaborate with your fellow cohort members, who all share your passion for the food industry.
Master’s Degree Virtual Info Sessions
Attend an online information session to learn even more about CIA’s master’s program. Our Graduate Admissions Team will provide details on the curriculum, admissions process, and the unique career paths a master’s degree from CIA can lead. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to ask your questions and get them answered in real time. Find an information session that works for you.
CIA Advantage
The Culinary Institute of America has been educating successful food, beverage, and hospitality industry professionals for decades, helping to launch and advance thousands of careers. As a graduate of CIA, you’ll instantly become a part of the most notable Alumni Network—paving the way for exceptional career opportunities. You’ll also have lifelong access to career resources, including job listings, mentors, and networking events. Our master’s alumni have accelerated their careers to own restaurants and businesses, impact the health of communities, craft signature wine brands, become food writers, and become changemakers in their industry.
That’s the iconic CIA Network.
Mentor Network
Our master’s students receive exclusive access to one-on-one mentoring sessions with industry leaders in the world of food, beverage, hospitality, and sustainability. The network includes finance experts, marketing professionals, food business owners, entrepreneurs, and more. See our current mentors.
What They Are Saying
“The master’s in Food Business program was the preparation I needed for the next phase of my career. The professional and person networking opportunities along with a solid and robust curriculum refreshed my skillset and has already proven valuable to my career trajectory.”
—Andrea Heinly, master’s in Food Business
“The Food Business master’s program is helping me gain knowledge and insight in order to build a solid foundation for my business endeavors. The program has opened my eyes to new ideas, new ways of thinking, and the ability to connect with industry professionals on all levels.”
—Tayo Adeboyejo, master’s in Food Business
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Our Graduate Admissions Team
Robert Tremblay ’10
Associate Director—Graduate Admissions
Contact if you are a/an:
• International student interested in any program.
• U.S. student interested in Culinary Arts.
• U.S. student interested in Culinary Therapeutics.
Rebecca Rein
Graduate Admissions and Enrollment Counselor
Contact if you are a U.S. student interested in:
• Food Business
• Sustainable Food Systems
• Wine and Beverage Management
