Michigan State University Online Food Safety Program

Food safety is a priority, and food safety professionals need the most up-to-date information on topics such as food security, food packaging and emerging foodborne pathogens. At Michigan State University (MSU), we educate food safety leaders on how to track, trend and locate the source of foodborne illness outbreaks and other hazards with a science-driven curriculum.

The MSU Master of Science (MS) in Food Safety degree program pioneers modern distance learning. Established in 2002, the program operates entirely online, providing food safety professionals the flexibility to earn an advanced degree while balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

The 30-credit-hour master’s degree program has a core curriculum deeply rooted in the sciences, complemented by a food law requirement. Students have the flexibility to choose electives that align with their personal interests and career aspirations. Some students choose to concentrate their electives in areas such as food law, packaging or public health, with opportunities to earn certificates in these specialized fields.

The degree concludes with a non-thesis applied project series, where students are encouraged to align their project topic with a food safety aspect or concern they face in their current professional role.

Whether students are aiming to advance their careers or simply looking to expand their knowledge, the program’s courses are designed to be immediately applicable to their current role in food safety. Through active participation in course discussions and activities, students build professional networks and engage in peer-to-peer learning. This approach encourages collaboration and learning across various functions within the food industry, including labs, processing plants, fieldwork and markets, mitigating the isolated nature often associated with their specialized work.

This program provides tools to successfully shape, defend and discuss a company’s food safety system. Join our community of dedicated scientists committed to building a safer, more innovative and sustainable food landscape. Become a Spartan protecting the world’s food supply.

For more information, visit foodsafety.msu.edu.