The demand for professionals with expertise in food safety science is growing rapidly.

Students pursuing the Graduate Certificate in Food Safety complete three core science courses centered on foodborne pathogens, toxicology, and epidemiology plus one approved food safety-related elective.

The certificate courses are immediately applicable to students’ current positions while, at the same time, preparing them for future leadership roles within food regulation and industry.

This program is...

• Fully online, asynchronous study
• Designed for mid-career/mid-management working professionals who are not seeking a degree
• Consists of four 3-credit courses to equal a 12-credit hour program
• Average time to complete certificate = 4 semesters or 16 months
• Accredited through: Michigan State University, Higher Learning Commission-North Central Association, AVMA Council on Education (COE) through the College of Veterinary Medicine, and Affiliate of the Professional Science Masters

After this program, students will...

• Obtain a transcript certificate from an accredited Big-Ten institution
• Develop a deeper understanding of core food safety sciences including food borne microbiology, toxicology, & epidemiology
• Lead food safety efforts to address new concerns such as allergens, preventive controls, food packaging, emerging food borne pathogens, antimicrobial resistance, and food safety culture
• Solve food safety problems by identifying effective and efficient processes in an ever-changing food safety industry

Career Outlook

Graduates of our program typically move up or on in their respective field. Most of the people pursuing this certificate work in industry and others work in government or military positions and are non-degree seeking. 

Titles of Certificate in Food Safety alumni include: 

• Quality and Regulatory Compliance Director
• Food Safety Manager
• SQF Coordinator
• Quality Manager
• Staff Veterinarian
• Senior Scientist