Purdue University new online food science certificates teach skills in nutrition, quality assurance

Purdue University’s is launching two new online professional development certificates that cover foods’ impact on human health and food safety: the Foods for Health online certificate and the Food Safety and Quality Assurance online certificate. Both programs provide an in-depth look into modern food systems and practices, while also giving students the opportunity to learn new skills in a flexible, self-paced format. 

The online Foods for Health certificate explores the relationship between food, nutrition and health, fulfilling a pressing need for education on healthy and sustainable nutrition practices in a society with increasing rates of obesity and Type-2 diabetes. Covering topics like weight management, chronic disease, gut health, functional foods and sustainable diets, this certificate uses the latest scientific research to dispel common food myths and empower healthier nutrition choices now and in the future. 

The online Food Safety and Quality Assurance certificate provides professionals with a thorough understanding of modern food safety and quality assurance programs, helping them navigate today’s complex and ever-changing food safety systems and regulatory landscape. Exploring issues like good manufacturing practices (GMPs), hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP), the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), preventive controls and food safety management systems, this certificate gives professionals the tools they need to ensure food safety, maintain quality standards and navigate industry regulations with confidence.  

“Food touches every dimension of health, from glycemic response and the gut microbiome to satiety and long-term risk factors,” said Hanyu Chen, clinical assistant professor of food science at Purdue University. “These certificates cut through the noise with evidence, translating carbohydrate quality, dietary fiber, and functional ingredient science into practical choices for consumers and better products for industry.” 

Offering industry-aligned curriculum and ample opportunities to build practical skills, these certificates focus on giving students expertise in food safety and foods & health in a streamlined timeframe. The Food Safety and Quality Assurance certificate is a great upskilling opportunity for students and professionals who currently work in or aspire to work in food production, processing or regulatory compliance. The Foods for Health certificate gives learners the opportunity to build life-long skills in maintaining healthy eating habits and exposes them to emerging topics in nutrition like gut microbiome, GLP-1 modulation and precision nutrition. 

The certificates’ online modules are led by expert faculty with direct professional experience in food safety and nutrition. The Food Safety and Quality Assurance certificate consists of five self-paced modules, and the Foods for Health certificate consists of six self-paced modules. Each module can be completed in as little as two weeks. 

“What sets these certificates apart is who teaches them—faculty and industry experts who lead research and innovation, advise business, and work directly with regulators and manufacturers,” said Chen. “We designed short, applied modules where learners practice with the same cases and tools we use in the field.” 

Both certificates are offered online in a flexible, self-paced format, and they can be completed in less time than a traditional graduate degree or graduate certificate. Upon completion of the certificates, students will earn a Purdue University certificate, continuing education units (CEUs) and a digital badge that they can share with their networks. 

To learn more about Purdue’s Foods for Health certificate, visit the program’s webpage. To learn more about Purdue’s Food Safety and Quality Assurance certificate, visit that program’s webpage.