Copenhagen University: Student Food Programs Explored

The University of Copenhagen offers a variety of food-related courses, including a Master of Science in Food Science and Technology, which enables students to develop sustainable and healthy food products for the future. The university also has a Department of Food Science, which covers all food science research disciplines. However, it is unclear if students at the University of Copenhagen have access to a specific food program that provides meals or discounts. The university does offer housing options, and many students living in the dorms organise dinner clubs, taking turns to buy ingredients and cook for each other. Additionally, Copenhagen can be an expensive city to eat in, with cheap options often hard to find.

Food Science and Technology Master's Program

The University of Copenhagen's Department of Food Science is Scandinavia's largest university research centre in the food area. The department offers a Master of Science (MSc) in Food Science and Technology, which is a 2-year programme taught in English. The programme focuses on developing the foods of the future, with an emphasis on taste, health, sustainability, food quality, and food safety.

The MSc in Food Science and Technology offers four specialisations: Plant-Based Foods, Dairy Science and Technology, Brewing Science and Technology, and an Individual Specialisation. The programme consists of compulsory courses, elective courses, and thematic courses that build on knowledge of food issues and food production. The teaching methods include lectures, seminars, practical and theoretical exercises, and project work.

The academic requirements for admission to the programme include a Bachelor's degree in Food Science with specific specialisations, or a similar degree programme assessed to be relevant. Additionally, applicants must meet the programme's language requirements and submit the necessary documentation.

The Department of Food Science at the University of Copenhagen collaborates with private and public companies and organisations, providing students with opportunities to work on real-world challenges and gain industry experience. The department's research covers all food science disciplines, from raw materials to processing and consumption.

Food Innovation and Health Master's Program

Food Innovation and Health Masters Program

The University of Copenhagen's Master of Science (MSc) in Food Innovation and Health is an international programme that combines scientific and practical approaches to food innovation and health. The programme is taught in English and offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of food culture.

Curriculum:

The curriculum covers various disciplines, including food science, food innovation, product development, nutrition, Food Design Thinking, consumer science, food chemistry, gastronomy, food sociology, and sensory science. Students will work on developing healthy, sustainable, and tasty products while addressing global challenges such as high carbon footprints, obesity, and poor nutrition.

Teaching Methods:

The programme employs different teaching methods, including lectures, problem-based learning, and theoretical and practical exercises. Students work independently and in project groups, gaining experience in interdisciplinary collaboration and creativity.

Student Life:

Students have the opportunity to join the 'Gastronomic Playground,' a student-led association that organises events and provides access to a large gastronomic laboratory for experimenting with food and techniques. The programme is based at Frederiksberg Campus, located in a beautiful green area a few kilometres west of Copenhagen's city centre.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the programme can pursue various career paths in the food industry or public food sector. They may work as product developers, advisers, researchers, consultants, or even start their own companies. The degree provides a strong foundation for an international career, with its English instruction and focus on global food challenges.

Admission Requirements:

To be admitted to the programme, applicants must hold a qualifying bachelor's degree or an equivalent international degree relevant to the field. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in English. The programme has specific application deadlines for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and non-EU citizens.

Eating on a budget

On-Campus Dining

Students living in dormitories at the University of Copenhagen often organise dinner clubs, taking turns buying ingredients and preparing meals together. This is a great way to save money and socialise with your fellow residents. Cooking and eating together can foster a sense of community and provide an opportunity to share cultures through food.

Off-Campus Dining Options

Copenhagen offers a variety of budget-friendly dining options beyond the university campus. Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of your student budget:

• Kebab and Pizza Combo Shops: These shops offer filling and relatively inexpensive meals. You can find kebab options like pitabrød (in a pita) or durum (wrapped in a tortilla), usually served with fixings like yogurt sauce, lettuce, tomato, and onion. The price of a pitabrød typically ranges from DKK 20-30, while a durum will cost between DKK 30 and 40. Keep an eye out for lunch specials, especially in the Nørrebro and Vesterbro areas.
• Hot Dog Stands and 7/11: Danes are known for their delicious hot dogs, which come in various shapes, sizes, and forms. Prices for hot dogs usually range from DKK 19-35. 7/11 convenience stores also offer a range of snacks and meals, although the prices may be a bit high for what you get.
• Sandwich and Bagel Shops: These shops offer light yet filling options, with prices typically ranging from DKK 40 to 60. You can find fresh and high-quality produce in these shops, making them a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
• Smørrebrød Shops: Seek out small, local smørrebrød shops to find Denmark's most common lunch food. Prices can vary, but you can find budget-friendly options for around DKK 12-15 per piece. Keep in mind that these shops often close by 2 or 3 PM and only serve lunch/brunch.
• Salad Bars: Although you may have overlooked them in the past, salad bars can offer surprisingly tasty and filling options. Many include a piece of heavy Danish rugbrød with your order, making it a more substantial meal. A filling three-item menu usually costs around DKK 50.
• Supermarkets: Danish supermarkets often have ready-to-eat options available. While budget supermarkets like Netto, Fakta, or Rema 1000 may have limited selections, larger markets such as Super Brugsen, Føtex, and Kvicky offer a wider range of meals, including traditional Danish foods like cooked pork, fish fillets, and smørrebrød.
• Ethnic Dives: For sit-down meals or takeout, look for small ethnic restaurants throughout the city, especially in Nørrebro and Vesterbro. These places offer hearty portions of Asian and Indian cuisine, with meals typically starting at DKK 70.
• Communal Dining: Places like Absalon and Madglad in Vesterbro offer cosy and affordable communal dining experiences. At Madglad, an all-you-can-eat daily special with salads, hummus, and bread costs DKK 85, while the vegetarian lunch buffet starts at DKK 40-50.
• Street Food: Reffen, a street food market on Refshaleøen island, offers a variety of local and authentic dishes from startups serving cuisines from Korea, Mexico, Italy, and Denmark. Enjoy your meal with panoramic views of Copenhagen Harbour.
• Discount Supermarkets and Local Markets: Shopping at discount supermarkets like Netto and local markets can help you save money on groceries. Netto offers a range of affordable options, from fresh fruits to microwaveable meals and snacks.
• Student Discounts and University Canteens: Take advantage of student discounts wherever available, and consider eating at university canteens, which often provide budget-friendly meal options.

Additional Tips:

• Plan and Cook Meals at Home: Cooking at home is generally more economical than eating out. Plan your meals and buy groceries in bulk to save money. On average, students cooking at home might spend between DKK 2,000 to 2,500 per month on groceries.
• Take Advantage of Free and Discounted Activities: Copenhagen offers a range of leisure and entertainment options, including discounted rates for students at museums and free admissions on certain days. Explore the city by bike, attend free events, and look for student discounts to make the most of your budget.

Student accommodation and cooking

The University of Copenhagen offers its students accommodation in the form of dorms or apartments spread across the city. The apartments are located in residential buildings where local Danish citizens also live, while the dorms are shared by 10-15 students and offer a communal kitchen.

Students living in the dorms often organise dinner clubs, taking turns buying ingredients and preparing meals. This is a great way to meet other students, share cultures, and socialise.

The University offers two providers for shared apartments: one is in Amagar and the other is in eastern Copenhagen. Both locations offer a quiet living environment while being close to the campus and the rest of the city.

The studio apartments, located near the campus in Amager, are a 15-minute bike ride or a 15-20 minute walk from Basecamp to the South Campus. The shared apartments are a 5-minute bike ride or a 10-15 minute walk to the Norre campus.

Copenhagen is a bike-friendly city, with dedicated bike lanes and traffic lights that favour cyclists. Rental bikes are widely available for those who don't own one.

Cooking on a Budget in Copenhagen

Copenhagen can be an expensive city for students, with cheap food options for locals being relatively costly for international students. Here are some tips for cooking and eating out on a budget:

• Kebab/Pizza Combo Shops: These offer filling and budget-friendly meals. You can find kebab in two formats: Pitabrød (smaller, wrapped in pita) and Durum (larger, wrapped in a tortilla). Prices for Pitabrød range from DKK 20-30, while a durum costs between DKK 30 and 40.
• Hot dog stands and 7/11: Danes make great hot dogs, offering a variety of shapes, sizes, and forms. Prices range from DKK 19-35 per hot dog. 7/11 also offers a range of snacks, though prices may be a bit high for what you get.
• Sandwich and Bagel Shops: With prices ranging from DKK 40 to 60, these shops offer light yet filling options.
• Supermarkets: While budget supermarkets like Netto, Fakta, or Rema 1000 may not have a wide selection, larger markets like Super Brugsen, Føtex, and Kvicky offer cheap access to traditional Danish foods.
• University Campus: The Frederiksberg Campus has a student-run café in an old greenhouse, offering an affordable dining option.

Eating Out in Copenhagen

While eating out in Copenhagen can be expensive, there are some budget-friendly options:

• Ethnic Food: Small ethnic restaurants, particularly in Nørrebro and Vesterbro, offer hearty portions at reasonable prices. Meals often start at around DKK 70.
• Lunch Specials: Many restaurants offer lunch specials at discounted prices.
• Student Discounts: Keep an eye out for restaurants offering student discounts with valid student ID.

With a bit of planning and creativity, students at the University of Copenhagen can enjoy a variety of dining options without breaking the bank.

Food-related clubs and societies

The University of Copenhagen offers a range of food-related clubs and societies that students can join. Here are some examples:

Dinner Clubs

Students living in the dorms often organise dinner clubs, taking turns buying ingredients and preparing meals together. This is a great way for students to meet others in their hall and share their cultural food experiences.

Student-Run Cafe

The Frederiksberg Campus has a student-run cafe in an old greenhouse, providing a unique space for students to socialise and enjoy a variety of food and drinks.

Food Science and Technology Society

The Food Science and Technology Society is likely to be a hub for students interested in food-related topics. The society aims to provide a community for students to connect and explore their shared interests in food science and technology. They organise various events, workshops, and seminars related to food innovation, sustainability, and health.

International Food Club

The International Food Club is perfect for students who want to explore different cuisines and cultural food experiences. They host events, food tastings, and cultural dinners, providing a platform for students to share their culinary heritage and traditions.

Food Sustainability and Environmental Society

With a focus on sustainability and environmental consciousness, this society educates students about the impact of food choices and promotes sustainable food practices. They might organise workshops on reducing food waste, ethical eating, and the future of food production.

Gastronomic and Culinary Arts Society

For students with a passion for culinary arts and gastronomic experiences, this society organises various events, including cooking classes, food demonstrations, and tastings. They might also host competitions and collaborate with local restaurants to offer unique dining experiences.

Frequently asked questions