Graduate Certificate in Food Technology
This Graduate Certificate integrates food science trends with the core concepts of the food production industry. Our curriculum taps the specialization of our faculty while providing foundational knowledge to understand the food industry. This online certificate is ideal for individuals unsure of the time commitment for a graduate degree, working in the food industry, or considering a career change to food science and technology. The Certificate credits can be applied to the 30 credits required to earn a Master of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition at the University of Maine as long as grades of B or higher are earned in the four courses. Please note that graduate certificate programs are not eligible for many types of student loans and other forms of financial aid.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Students will be able to describe chemicals and processes used to extend food quality, nutritional value, and safety. Met by FSN 502, FSN 538, and FSN 603.
- Students will be able to assess current research in food science and food technology critically. Met by FSN 524 and FSN 543.
- Students will be able to apply principles of food science and technology in distributing safe and acceptable food throughout the food system. Met by FSN 545,FSN 555, FSN 585, and FSN 586.
Program Requirements
- A minimum of 12 credits (four classes) with grades of B or higher.
- Students are expected to meet at least once each semester by video or phone to plan classes with their appointed advisor.
- A study plan outlining which classes the student will take each semester is created no later than a student’s second semester and is signed by the student and advisor.
- Classes that may be applied to the graduate Certificate in Food Technology include:
- FSN 502 (Food Preservation),
- FSN 524 (Responsible Design, Conduct, and Analysis of Research),
- FSN 538 (Fermented Foods & Probiotics),
- FSN 543 (Communication in Nutrition and Food Technology),
- FSN 545 (Utilization of Aquatic Food Resources),
- FSN 555 (Organic & Natural Foods),
- FSN 585 (Principles of Sensory Evaluation),
- FSN 586 (Sensory and Consumer Science Applications) and
- FSN 603 (Nutrient Changes in the Food System).
- Certificate students may not apply classes taken in other programs or classes offered in person at the University of Maine towards the certificate requirements.
Admission Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Two college-level lecture courses in Chemistry (1 year)
- Two college-level lecture courses in Biology (1 year)
- One college-level introductory nutrition course (recommended but not required)
- GRE scores are not required. Prospective students who attended a university not taught in English must provide TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, and PTE test scores to demonstrate their proficiency in English.
- Required documents by UMaine graduate school (https://umaine.edu/graduate/apply/application-checklist/).
- An application fee of $65.00. This fee is not waived except for IRT and McNair Scholars, current and former U.S. Armed Forces members and their dependents, and any University of Maine System program alumni.
- Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process, but official versions are needed before a student can begin classes.
- Application deadlines: Fall, March 15; Spring, October 15; and Summer, February 15. Applications that miss those dates will be considered as space permits. Enrollment in specific classes cannot be guaranteed for late applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Graduate Certificate in Food Technology cost?
Tuition for online programs is $608 per credit hour. Thus, a certificate will cost $7,296 plus expenses for textbooks and related fees. The University of Maine system provides the Microsoft Office suite and statistical software packages at no additional cost to students.
How long does it take to earn a certificate?
Most students complete the certificate requirements in 1-1.5 years.
When are classes offered?
Classes are typically offered once every two years. Please consult the class rotation schedule for the current planned sequence of classes.
Is financial aid available?
Graduate certificates are not considered degrees, so student loans may be difficult to obtain. The School of Food and Agriculture has no scholarships or fellowships for certificate students. We encourage potential students to inquire whether their employers will provide partial or full tuition reimbursement.