FOOD SAFETY

The food safety major is an interdisciplinary program oriented toward the single issue of food safety, an area of concern around the world; the current target of tremendous interest, effort and spending nationwide; and an area in which shortages of expertise are manifest. Foodborne illness exacts a high tariff on the public's peace of mind, health and pocketbook. Uneasiness with our food supply has resulted in a national food safety initiative that affects every aspect of the food chain, from farm to fork. However, the promise of this initiative cannot be realized without individuals with expertise in food safety able to troubleshoot safety issues as they arise. The lack of individuals with food safety expertise is becoming increasingly evident in government, business and academia. This void is widespread and exists in many professions, including veterinary medicine, public information services, food/retail/service, education, agriculture and public health.

The Program

This program presents students with an opportunity to gain an education with a novel, integrated food safety curriculum designed to provide them with the necessary knowledge and requisite problem-solving skills to thrive in tomorrow's food-related workplace. Potential emphasis areas for electives include production, processing, science, economic/social and retail/consumer.

The Curriculum

The food safety program has a core of nine credits in food safety, which are offered online as individual one-credit modules. For the minor, an additional five credit hours must come from approved electives.

Career Opportunities

The Great Plains Institute of Food Safety claims one of the most comprehensive and integrated food safety educational programs in the country. Students completing this program will have a unique and highly desirable credential, which will likely provide them a competitive edge in the marketplace. Careers can be found in local, state and federal agencies, public health, academia and industry.

The Program Organization

The Director of the Great Plains Institute of Food Safety administers the interdisciplinary food safety academic program. The Great Plains Institute of Food Safety consists of faculty participants from the college of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources; Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; Engineering and Architecture; Human Development and Education; and Science and Mathematics. The undergraduate food safety program reports to the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources.

Sample Curriculum

This sample curriculum is not intended to serve as a curriculum guide for current students, but rather an example of course offerings for prospective students. For the curriculum requirements in effect at the time of entrance into a program, consult with an academic advisor or with the Office of Registration and Records.

Contact Information

Deland J Myers Sr., Professor and Director/b>

School of Food Systems/Great Plains Institute of Food Safety

North Dakota State University
Harris Hall 110
Dept. #7640
Fargo, ND 58108-6050

Tel: (701) 231-9450
Fax: (701) 231-5171
E-mail: Deland.Myers@ndsu.edu
Web:  www.ag.ndsu.edu/foodsafety/

Office of Admission

North Dakota State University
Ceres 114
Dept 5230, PO Box 6050
Fargo, ND 58108-6050

Tel: (701) 231-8643
Fax: (701) 231-8802
Email: NDSU.Admission@ndsu.edu
Web: www.ndsu.edu/admission/

(07/12)