Cert in Food Science and Technology

This program prepares students for work in quality control, sanitation, processing and product development within the food industry. It is built around a sequence of courses that cover food chemistry, microbiology of foods, regulation, facility management and the principles of hazard analysis. Students practise sampling and testing food, running bacterial tests, handling and storing products properly, and advising businesses on sanitation. Completers receive a certificate carrying the seal of the International HACCP Alliance and also earn the AFDO Preventative Control Qualified Individual credential for human food. Federal student aid does not cover this option, but students who qualify can look to the California Promise Grant for enrollment fee help. Graduates can look toward food processing operations, food inspection agencies, public health services and research ventures. The college also describes supporting resources on the same page, including transfer information, regional internship opportunities, financial aid guidance and an advisor contact for students who want help getting started. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply online and speak with an advisor about course planning.