This programme provides advanced academic training in food safety and food control. It includes topics such as food control, hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) and food chain security.

You will consider the relationship between food and public health, and examine the scientific, technical, managerial, political and legislative factors that influence food safety.

Course details

This programme provides advanced academic training in food safety and food control. You will consider the relationship between food and public health, and examine the scientific, technical, managerial, political and legislative factors that influence food safety.

The course is particularly suitable for those with relevant food related knowledge and/or experience including:

• Hygiene managers or supervisors already working in the food industry
• Staff working in competent authorities or enforcement; for example, Environmental Health Officers or Food Safety Officers
• Staff in diagnostic or food microbiology laboratories
• Students who have completed relevant undergraduate degrees such as Food Technology and wish to find employment in the food industry or local government
• Food hygiene and management trainers or consultants

Programme content

The syllabus includes detailed coverage of food safety hazards, especially microbial contamination, and the impact of such contamination on public health. Also covered in depth are the Food Controls used in the EU to contain such hazards.

This postgraduate programme is designed to provide rigorous academic training in Food Safety, Hygiene and Management.

It provides an opportunity for students to develop an appreciation of the relationship between food and public health by focusing on the factors that influence food safety and quality. These are multidisciplinary and include scientific, technical, managerial, political and legislative matters. Topics covered include:

Food Safety

Access to safe food should be a basic human right. Unfortunately food borne illness is universal. Changing methods of food production and the globalisation of the food chain increase the risk that food borne contaminants will cause larger and more serious outbreaks, as well as providing opportunities for emerging pathogens.

The MSc in Food Safety Hygiene and Management differs from other postgraduate food courses in that it focuses on the mechanisms of Food Control and Food Safety Management. All Food Control and Safety Systems seek to prevent food safety hazards from causing illness; microbiological hazards are considered to be some of the most significant food safety hazards in the food chain and the content of the course reflects this viewpoint. 

Food Control

One of the main mechanisms of Food Control is the implementation of food hygiene and food standards legislation. Together with the relevant food microbiology, this legislation forms the basis of the course, underpinning the study of processes and management systems commonly used by industry and the competent authorities.

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)

The course also covers HACCP, Risk Assessment, Quality Assurance, Integrated Pest Management, premises and equipment design and other aspects of control in a national and international context. The research projects conducted by the students as part of the MSc reflect these priorities and may be laboratory or practice based.

Food Chain Security

The emphasis on implementation and enforcement of legislation and safety standards is a novel approach and, by offering a comprehensive picture of food chain security, provides progression for those from undergraduate degrees such as food technology, veterinary medicine or microbiology. This legal perspective qualifies successful candidates to work in enforcement or advisory positions for UK competent authorities such as the Food Authority (Local Authority). The course is accredited by the Environmental Health Registration Board.

The legislation considered is EC based and the course welcomes many students from other member states, some of whom return home to work in their own Competent Authorities or to represent their country on specialist food committees at national, EU and international level. Several have also taken up lectureships in food safety. The course has also become increasingly popular with overseas students, especially those from countries wishing to accede to the EU or to trade with it.

Related links

• Food Safety Hygiene and Management MSc (pdf 1 MB)
• Postgraduate degree courses - School of Chemical Engineering
• Taught postgraduate programmes - School of Chemical Engineering

Learning and teaching

Learning, teaching and assessment

Various learning and teaching methods are used on the programme, including traditional lectures, computer-based learning, student-based learning such as case studies and directed learning, laboratories and visits. The programme is assessed using both traditional unseen examination and coursework. The MSc requires candidates to complete a research project and submit a thesis.

Skills gained

Apart from a high level of technical knowledge, students will also gain the ability to critically analyse data and published information, apply scientific principles and legislation to practical situations and become experienced at locating and interpreting government guidance. Successful candidates will also develop an advanced understanding of common food safety management systems such as Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP).

Careers

The Postgraduate Diploma and MSc are accredited by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health /Environmental Health Registration Board as a route to the Higher Certificate in Food Premises Inspection and therefore very appropriate for anyone wishing to work as a food premises officer in a food authority or competent authority. Past students have found work in a variety of areas, including NGOs, competent authorities in the UK and overseas, academic institutions and the food industry.

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The Master in food safety and quality, can adapt to scientific knowledge in the field of food, its constantly changing legislation and update quality standards for food safety. Study the masters in food safety and quality of MFI also allows for a comprehensive approach to the variety of food industries that exist in the market and knowledge of the processes that apply to them.

Business development of the food industry, regulations and legislation of the European Union, make producers and suppliers responsible for providing consumers with safe and healthy food. In this context an increasingly professional organizations defendant arises, technical quality and food safety manager to ensure and guarantee the quality of products and processes and thus the satisfaction of customers and consumers. Figure auditor's food safety and quality control responsible for the design, development, implementation and system audits hygiene and food safety is needed.

Upon completion of the online Master in Quality, Hygiene and Food Safety will get a double degree by IMF and the University Camilo Jose Cela, with which you will open a world of new job opportunities in the areas of development, production, transport and food handling . You will be able to implement in any organization norms, standards and quality standards: ISO, OHSAS, HACCP, BRC, IFS, GlobalGAP, SAL ... When performing a training course on food security IMF, will have access to job opportunities and practices which bring the acquired knowledge to the real world in the food industry and food businesses.

Why this programme

• Mastering Food, Nutrition, Dietetics, the fundamental aspects of food microbiology and all that surrounds its development and activity.
• Knowing the regulatory framework and legislation in the food sector.
• Monitor, analyze and ensure hygiene and food safety throughout the production process according to the legal framework.
• Distinguish between food groups and their conditions of spoilage and contamination. Know the basis for conservation and labeling.
• Set variables and indicators (pressure, temperature, flow, level, pH, conductivity) necessary for process control drive systems, control equipment and facilities control.
• Implement and audit the ISO 9001, OHSAS 18001, ISO 14001 and management models in the food sector at national, European and global standards.
• Mastering the certifiable models to protect the food as designations of origin, controlled production, kosher, halal, etc.

Objectives

Acquire an integrated and professional approach to ensure the quality and safety of products and processes in order to achieve customer satisfaction and consumers.

You will also learn to:

• Adapt to current scientific knowledge in the field of food.
• Knowing the legislation on the subject.
• Update the rules applicable to food safety.
• Take a broad approach to the variety of food industry market.
• Knowing the processes applied in food security.

Methodology and Evaluation

Methodology

The Master in Food Safety and Quality is developed in order to unite and reconcile personal and professional life with the possibility of studying. Based on a flexible methodology study.

• Online offer accessible content in the virtual campus at any time and place.
• Distance mode: Get textbooks with the content.

Both methodologies are based on five key points:

• Live online classes available desce anywhere. Attend hours compatible with your life and interact virtually with your teacher. You can ask and discuss like you're in a classroom class. In addition, all classes are recorded and available at any time through the virtual campus.
• Virtual campus with all the agenda and content of the courses and modules. View them via the Internet or download them in PDF format as you are comfortable with. The virtual campus is also a meeting point with your classmates and teachers. Know them, debate and interact with them through forums, chats and discussion threads. In addition you will have additional training material, resolution of case studies and self-assessment test.
• Unlimited with your personal tutor, tutoring resolve any questions online, chat, phone or email. Lean on the best professionals in the area of ​​food security and asks if you need face tutorials in MFI own headquarters.
• Virtual Library to help you make the more than 9,000 references from the food industry and the business world. Access specialist publishers, download and stresses on the contents.
• Networking and events with which to complete your training and catch up on all the news of food and business sector. Free access masterclass, roundtables and webinars taught by the best professionals.

Evaluation

Continuous assessment as during the Masters. Each module is evaluated by combining an online review and the development of case studies.

The final obtaining master's degrees by the UCJC (Universidad Camilo José Cela) and Master by MFI Business School, is subject to overcoming each module testing and development work to master.

Career prospects

Booming Sector

Labor demand for professionals in this sector is growing, with very optimistic expectations of growth, both at EU and global level, increasing rigor and requirement of food controls.

• Quality Control Technician
• Rural, developing and managing industrial projects, directing operations, innovating in food products or projects biotechnology applied to agriculture and livestock engineering.
• Restoration services such as quality control technician, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point, or HACCP-forming food handlers.
• Consulting as a consultant to companies for implementation of Food Quality Standards (BRC, IFS, ISO 22000, etc.), HACCP and legal, scientific and technical advice.
• Research Quality Control Laboratories and Analysis
• Training
• Industry
• laboratories

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The programme in Food Safety and Control addresses the key issues of food control, from both the food producers and food law enforcement points of view, recognising the equally important needs of distributors, retailers and of course, consumers.

The course covers the knowledge and skills required for the successful introduction and implementation of systems of control, such as those based on the accepted principles of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), and other international quality management standards.

The responsibility of assuring the safety of food lies primarily with government and the industry. In today's food industry, all aspects of the production, storage and distribution of food must be effectively controlled, not only to assure safety and wholesomeness, but also to ensure efficient and consistent manufacture at the lowest possible cost. Consumers are demanding a greater assurance of safety as well as more information on which to base their choices. Students are expected to take on demanding roles in a wide range of food control activities in both the private and public sectors upon graduation, while gaining an internationally recognised qualification.

EU study opportunity

EU study opportunities exist with the University of de Lorraine Nancy, France, and Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), Valencia, Spain.

Excellent scholarship opportunity

Students who have accepted an offer for a place on this course are encouraged to apply for LSBU's Frank Brake scholarships. Find out more about the Frank Brake scholarship:

http://www.lsbu.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/scholarships/frank-brake-scholarship

Modules

Year 1:

All modules are assessed through a mix of formal examination and coursework. Each module represents 200 hours of learning time with up to 40 hours of class contact time.

Food regulation and sustainability
Food composition and safety
Food microbiology and hygiene
Food quality management
Food product development management
Food control operations
Research methods
Project

Teaching and learning

You'll make extensive use of the Virtual Learning Environment, so materials are available whenever you need them. Personal tutoring support, extraclinics offering support outside lecture and tutorial sessions are available.There's a major focus on the practical applications of knowledge, supported byhands-on laboratory exercises. Various assessment methods are used in modules across the course.

Placements

You'll be encouraged to undertake a work-based project or dissertation.

Professional links

This course is accredited by the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST).

Some members of the teaching team are registered trainers for the Charted Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) and fellow of the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST). There is also a close association with Leatherhead Food Research and Campden BRI.

Employability

The programme covers the knowledge and skills required for the successful introduction and implementation of systems of control such as those based on the accepted principles of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), and other international quality management standards. This opens up numerous and diverse opportunities in food safety and control.

You'll study all areas of food safety, ranging from microbiological, chemical and physical safety in the different modulesand throughout the programme.

The course will open up a wide range of career opportunities including roles in: product development; quality control; food safety and quality management; catering and retailing; technical auditing; and food law enforcement. Some of our graduates have gone on to PhD degrees.

Recent employers include Kerry Foods, Leathams, Bakkaver, Kraft Foods, Tesco, Asda, Marks and Spencer, Harrods and local authorities.

LSBU Employability Services

LSBU is committed to supporting you develop your employability and succeed in getting a job after you have graduated. Your qualification will certainly help, but in a competitive market you also need to work on your employability, and on your career search. Our Employability Service will support you in developing your skills, finding a job, interview techniques, work experience or an internship, and will help you assess what you need to do to get the job you want at the end of your course. LSBU offers a comprehensive Employability Service, with a range of initiatives to complement your studies, including:

• Direct engagement from employers who come in to interview and talk to students
• Job Shop and on-campus recruitment agencies to help your job search
• Mentoring and work shadowing schemes.

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Population growth, both globally and within the UK, will continue to put pressure on all elements of the agri-food supply chain. A fully coordinated approach directed towards food quality, innovation, security, and sustainability is needed.

Why Study Food Science and Innovation (MRes) with us?

This course integrates the key elements required to address the future needs of the food industry and the global population.

Our course is of benefit to individuals looking to enhance their careers in the many areas of the food supply chain. It will be of particular benefit to those with an interest in R&D areas such as new product development, and food processing and manufacturing innovation.

The course is built upon a programme of research and development that has been established at the University to support the food and drink sectors. We have designed the course so that you can undertake two taught modules before moving on to the research component.

How will I be taught?

You will be supported by a mixture of workplace mentors, online support materials and University tutors. Industrial and practical ‘hands-on’ training will also be embedded into all elements of the course.

There are around 28 hours of contact time per module. You will also be expected to undertake 172 hours of independent guided study for each module.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment will take the form of practical assessment and industry-focused reports and projects.

Postgraduate Visit Opportunities

If you are interested in this courses we have a number of opportunities to visit us and our campuses. To find out more about these options and to book a visit, please go to: https://www1.chester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/postgraduate-visit-opportunities

Request a Prospectus

If you would like to know more about the University please request a prospectus at: http://prospectus.chester.ac.uk/form.php

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This postgraduate course provides relevant, up-to-date experience of food safety management, which is of vital importance both to organisations and individuals in the food industry, enforcement and education. MSc Food Safety Management focuses on the important areas of foodborne disease, food safety hazards and the effective management of food safety through application of the risk management system Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP). An online course, Food Safety Management provides learning units and support materials via a secure website. This includes individual and group activities, including live web-seminars, research tasks and case studies provide practical learning opportunities.  

PROGRAMME AT A GLANCE

Awards: MSc (After one year - PGCert HACCP Development, after two years - PGDip HACCP Audit and Management).

Within the last few years, there has been widespread agreement that to improve the safety of our food and promote consumer confidence in safe food production, a system known as Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) is applied throughout the food industry. As a result, European legislation requires all food businesses to implement a system based on HACCP principles.

Challenges for food businesses, include not only development of suitable HACCP-based systems but on-going management and verification to assure HACCP effectiveness

Year 1

• Foodborne Disease (Double Module)
• HACCP Development

Year 2

• HACCP Effective Food Safety Management Systems (Double Module)
• Research Methods

Year 3

• Current Issues in Food Safety Management (Double Module)
• International Food Law (O) or
• Allergy and Intolerance (O)

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Knowledge and Understanding

1. Analyse case studies to determine the causes of foodborne disease and determine preventative strategies to reduce the risk of illness associated with the contamination of food.
2. Assess a range of designs and methods currently used in research in the study domain.
3. Identify, investigate and critically evaluate a current issue in food safety by applying selected theory and research techniques developed during the course to the chosen area.
4. Critically evaluate the national and international legislative and enforcement frameworks in which all sectors of the food industry operate.
5. Appreciate the range of common food hypersensitivities and evaluate the mechanisms of allergic and intolerance reactions
6. Critically assess and discuss the epidemiological evidence relating to food allergy and intolerance with reference to methods of detection and diagnosis and consumer perception of food allergy.
7. Identify and critically evaluate food safety hazards and determine their significance as risks to public health in food operations and products.

Subject-specific skills

1. Assess surveillance and other relevant epidemiological data and estimate costs associated with incidents of foodborne disease.
2. Analyse the relationship between prerequisite programmes and HACCP systems.
3. Apply HACCP methodology to a food operation in order to develop a HACCP plan.
4. Critically evaluate alternative approaches to HACCP implementation in food operations.
5. Perform HACCP and food safety management system verification, including design, planning and execution of appropriate verification programmes.
6. Apply some of the tools and techniques for managing projects and change in the context of the design and implementation of a HACCP project.
7. Synthesise and apply relevant food safety and/or food standards legislation to different industry sectors and international settings.
8. Critically assess requirements for allergen labelling and consumer information, including legislative and health protection requirements.

Thinking Skills

1. Discuss food safety hazards and critically evaluate the suitability of physical and human resources employed in the global food supply chain for production of safe food.
2. Reflect and critique the process of HACCP and Food Safety Management System verification in relation to current theory/practice literature.
3. Assess the factors affecting successful implementation and management of a HACCP-based food safety management and discuss practical strategies to overcoming barriers to system implementation.
4. Evaluate critically the key concepts and theories of managing projects and change in relation to development and implementation of effective HACCP-based food safety management programmes.
5. Evaluate research methods employed to answer a range of research questions.
6. Analyse contemporary theoretical and methodological issues in relation to current published research literature in the domain, including appraisal of design, analysis and interpretation of results.
7. Identify research gaps in the chosen area and determine priority research questions with reference to current food safety theory and practice.
8. Evaluate the impact of legislation and enforcement on the food industry and consumers, with reference to case law examples.
9. Reflect and critique the process of effective allergen management in the global food supply chain, with reference to the application of prerequisite programmes and HACCP-based Food Safety Management Systems.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

Detailed learning materials are all available online. Each topic of study involves a number of learning activities supported by asynchronous discussions, live web-cast workshops and chat activities. To take full advantage of the course, you will need the following software:

• Firefox web browsing software.
• Standard word processing and presentation software, such as Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.
• Standard electronic mail software, such as Outlook or Hotmail.
• Acrobat reader software.
• You will need to have signed up with an internet service provider. Broadband is recommended for full functionality, plus a webcam and headset/microphone.

Assessment is done in a number of different ways including a report on an outbreak of foodborne disease, a personal portfolio, critical analysis of papers and case studies. There are no examinations.

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This course offers graduates an opportunity to progress into a wide range of technical and management roles in the food and nutrition industries.

The course will develop your understanding of how the biochemical properties of food components influence how foods taste and feel, and how they impact nutrition and heath. Practical teaching in food processing, food analysis and microbiology will enable you to understand 21st century food manufacturing, and to ensure foods are nutritious and safe to eat.

You will explore how the disciplines of marketing and sensory analysis inform the product development process, and use this knowledge to create your own innovative foods.

Applied sessions in food law and quality management will help you to meet the legal responsibilities of food business operation, as well as the quality requirements of your customers. You will also explore how global trends in trade, regulation and policy influence the sustainability and wider impact of the food chain. 

Finally, as part of your independent research project, you will learn to design and execute ethical scientific research, using appropriate practical and statistical methodologies, and critical appraisal of scientific data.

Enrolled students can access student membership of the Institute of Food Science and Technology. 

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Wageningen University & Research is one of the leading centres in Food Science and Technology in Europe and the world. The Food Safety programme of the university was the first MSc in Food Safety worldwide. The programme is unique, with a highly integrated approach to the field of food safety.

Most other programmes in this field focus on the technological aspects of food safety or focus on the interaction of food safety and food quality. The programme in Wageningen focuses on the technical aspects, as well as on the legal aspects of food safety and integrates these in Food Safety Management.

Study programme

Wageningen University is one of the few universities in Europe with the ability to offer education and research in all fields of food safety. This includes not only technical disciplines such as microbiology and toxicology, but also the legal, economic, risk management and communication aspects of food safety.

On the programme Food Safety page you can find the general outline of the programme and more detailed information about courses, theses and internships.

Specialisations

Within the master programme you can choose one of the following Specialisations to meet your personal interests.

• Applied Food Safety
• Food Law and Regulatory Affairs
• Supply Chain Safety

Your future career

The programme is aimed to provide the market with graduates that can work as a food safety specialist in the food industry, governmental organisations, product associations or federations, food inspection services or similar, research institutes or specialized law agencies. Read more about career perspectives and opportunities after finishing the programme.

Related programmes:

MSc Food Quality Management

MSc Food Technology 

MSc Nutrition and Health

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Food is necessary for human survival, is an important source of pleasure, and plays an enormous role in the global economy. Microbes play an essential role in food preservation and safety, food for health and food biotechnology. These are growing areas in all global economies. UCC Microbiology has established a global reputation in food microbiology, based on its research profile and the impact of its graduates in the food industry.

This course covers the breadth of classical and modern food microbiology, including food safety and spoilage; food fermentation; food biotechnology; hygienic production of food; the impact of diet on health; the molecular mechanisms of infectious microbes and the role of the gut microbiota in human health. Students may also wish to take advantage of the limited number of optional industry placements which are available on this course for the research dissertation.

Visit the website: http://www.ucc.ie/en/ckr19/

Course Details

The MSc in Food Microbiology is a structured one-year full-time course which includes a six-month lab-based research dissertation. The aim of this course is to educate you to an MSc level in food microbiology, emphasising areas in which UCC engages actively in research, e.g. food biotechnology, food fermentations, food safety, food for health.

The course will give you the knowledge and skills to contribute to Irish and international food industries. Modules will be chosen with the approval of the Programme Board depending on your background.

After completing this course you will have:

- advanced theoretical education and practical training in the area of food microbiology
- greater knowledge and understanding of current issues in food microbiology
- laboratory research practice in food microbiology
- knowledge from different aspects of food microbiology and formulation of appropriate judgements on scientific research
- ability to survey scientific literature at a professional level
- knowledge, understanding and problem-solving skills to address practical issues in the food industry and work there at management level.

Further details on the content and modules are available on the Postgraduate College Calendar - http://www.ucc.ie/calendar/postgraduate/Masters/food/page06c.html

Format

Lectures and workshops are conducted between 9am and 6pm (Monday to Friday). Up to 138 lecture hours with approximately 70 additional directed study/reading hours can be expected. There are 38 hours of laboratory practicals/workshops, which may be carried out as half-day or full-day workshops. Students also complete a six-month lab-based research dissertation on a topic in the area of food microbiology, performed under the supervision of a member of staff and in some cases co-supervised by collaborating research centres. The project aims to enhance your laboratory skills and critical abilities in identifying, analysing and solving problems in scientific research and to develop your skills in communicating your results.

Placement and Study Abroad

Some placement opportunities exist for research projects to be carried out in collaboration with industry partners or at the Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark in Fermoy.

Assessment

The course uses a variety of assessment methods. Most modules are assessed by in-term continuous assessment and/or end-of-year examinations. In-term exams can be either multiple choice type questions (MCQs) or written papers (normally 1.5h duration). Most modules include assignments, dissertation and reports as part of the assessment methodology. Modules that contain workshop/practical components are also assessed using written reports/assignments. The laboratory research project is assessed by a combination of laboratory performance, written report and oral presentation. The research project (MB6007) is written up in the form of a dissertation and approved by an external examiner.

Careers

The MSc in Food Microbiology is designed to equip graduates to work in a range of management, research and innovation roles within the Irish and international food, beverage and associated industries. Graduates will be in a position to support new product development, innovation and quality assurance functions in the dairy, meat, consumer foods, soft and alcoholic beverages and food ingredients sectors. Graduates will also be equipped to work in a range of other areas such as contract food-testing laboratories, the regulatory and consumer protection sectors. Graduates also have the option of proceeding to further studies at PhD level.

How to apply: http://www.ucc.ie/en/study/postgrad/how/

Funding and Scholarships

Information regarding funding and available scholarships can be found here: https://www.ucc.ie/en/cblgradschool/current/fundingandfinance/fundingscholarships/

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Areas of research include, but are not limited to: pre-harvest stress on ascorbic acid content in baby leaf spinach; the impact of post anthesis rainfall on the production and distribution of fusarium mycotoxins in wheat; minimising post-harvest losses in radishes.

Research Degrees

Strategic and applied research underpins Harper Adams' mission to provide higher education for a sustainable food chain and rural economy. Our research and reach-out strategies are focused to meet the challenge of rural sustainability.

Professor Peter Mills
Deputy Vice-Chancellor

■Choice of one year (MRes), two year (MPhil) or three year (PhD) research degrees
■Excellent completion rates for higher degrees
■Good job prospects for PhD candidates in industry, government organisations and academia
■Accessible academic staff
■Rural location and collegiate atmosphere
■Unique facilities
■Fortnightly research seminar programme

PhD and MPhil research at the University has been developed over the last 20 years to its current position of national and international recognition in a number of areas. There are strong links with agri-business which give postgraduates the chance to develop close contacts with industry and this has led to more than 90 per cent of our PhD graduates getting jobs in their areas of interest.

The MRes is a new, shorter research degree, developed in response to increasing demand.

All MPhil/PhD research students have their own office space and a dedicated personal computer. You will be encouraged to participate in seminars and conferences appropriate to your research.

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OVERVIEW

The MSc in Advanced Food Safety is tailored towards students who aim to, or currently work within the agri-food industry and related sectors, offering a unique qualification in the fields of food safety and security.

The Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS), is one of the University’s four Global Research Institutes, which is leading the world in addressing one of the greatest challenges – how to ensure the safety of our food.

The world’s food supply is reducing. Its production is under increasing pressure, and so safety issues are more likely to arise.

The programme focus will be on new and emerging issues within the field, concentrating on developments in analytical approaches to monitor and regulate food safety, authenticity and security.

For further information email [email protected] or send us a message on WhatsApp

ADVANCED FOOD SAFETY HIGHLIGHTS

WORLD CLASS FACILITIES

• Purpose-built teaching and research facilities are currently being constructed for the Institute of Global Food Security, within the new £39 million Biological Sciences building due to open in 2018.

INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED EXPERTS

• You’ll study at a university that was at the forefront of uncovering and understanding the horsemeat scandal in 2013. Professor Chris Elliott, Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences, led the UK government's independent review of food systems.

STUDENT EXPERIENCE

• The MSc Advanced Food Safety, is one of only two courses in Queen's to be part of the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships Scheme (DIFD Award), offering tution support to a scholar on this programme, commencing their studies in 2018-2019.

COURSE STRUCTURE

Introduction

You will learn about emerging issues within the field of food safety, and focus on analytical approaches to monitor and regulate food safety, authenticity and security.

You will study core topics in the field:

• Food safety, health and disease;
• Food authenticity and traceability;
• Chemical/biological hazards in animal feed and human food;
• Current and emerging analytical technologies to prevent food safety incidents.

MODULE TOPICS

You’ll be assessed by continuous assessment and examination in the following areas:

• Advanced Food Bioanalysis
• Agri-food Traceability and Fraud
• Bio-entrepreneurship and Advanced Skills
• Food Safety, Health and Disease
• Foundations for Research in the Biosciences
• Literature Review
• Research Project (triple module)
• You’ll complete a lab based food safety related research project.

FACILITIES

As you might expect for this ever-changing field of research, you’ll use both traditional equipment and the latest bioanalytical technology used within the field of food security and food safety.

These include:

• GC, HPLC and UPLC separation platforms
• ICP, IR, qToF and QqQ mass spectrometers
• Microbiological research facilities
• Antibody production and biomolecule binder development
• Cell culture suite and bioanalytical assay detection systems
• NMR, NIR and Raman spectrometers
• Proteomic and metabolomic profiing tools
• RT-PCR, transcriptomic profiing, Next-generation sequencing
• Multiplex biosensor platforms and LFD development

For further information email [email protected] or send us a message on WhatsApp

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Research Strategies

This programme focuses on applied aspects of advanced and emerging analytical technologies to address current issues in food safety, nutrition and food supply. It covers the entire food chain from farm to fork and places a strong emphasis on the link between improved food safety and nutrition and improved public health.

Research Strengths

•Advanced and emerging technology platforms (biosensors and omics)

•Animal food and feed safety

•Animal health and disease diagnostics

•Food and nutrition metabolomics

•Food and nutrition quality measurements

•Food chemistry

•Food safety detection methodology

•Food traceability and authenticity

•Immunodiagnostics for food contaminant and toxin detection

•Natural compounds and their health applications

•Novel and functional foods

•Therapeutic biomolecules

Special Features

•Students will be based in modern, world-class laboratory facilities equipped with state-of-the-art, highly advanced analytical instruments.

•Students will gain excellent practical experience of advanced and emerging analytical techniques for food safety analysis and monitoring.

•The School has a wide range of strong, international links with governments, academia and industry.

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This course embraces the implications of food safety and quality management against the backdrop of food authenticity and sustainability within an increasingly globalised food industry. You will gain an in-depth understanding of regional, national, and international standards in regulatory processes, and the role of public institutions and policy makers in delivering safe, quality foods to consumers.

This course is designed for graduates and those working in the agri-food industries who are seeking to advance their knowledge and understanding of food safety and quality management, and progress their professional careers.

Structure

The course may be studied full-time over 12 months or part-time over two years.

You will study eight modules, followed by the Research Project, carried out over the summer to be submitted in September. It will be presented as a review paper and as a research paper.

If you do not wish to undertake the Research Project may choose to take a Postgraduate Diploma following successful completion of eight modules.

You will learn through a combination of lectures, guest speakers, group workshops and seminars, case studies, individual and student-led research, group projects, and field studies

Students are encouraged to participate in the RAU Enterprise Scheme where they can develop their entrepreneurial skills towards starting their own business.

This course is available to start in either September or January.

September entry

Students will study four modules in the autumn term followed by four modules in the spring term, and complete their Research Project by the end of September.

January entry

Students will study four modules in the spring term, complete their Research Project by the end of September, and study four modules in the autumn term.

Modules

• 4014 Food Chain
• 4075 Research Project
• 4206 Fundamentals of Food Science
• 4207 Systems for Food Safety Management
• 4209 Sustainability and the Food industry
• 4228 New Product Development (NPD) in the Agri-Food Industry
• 4237 The Politics and Policies of Food Assurance

Plus choice of TWO modules, selected from:

• 4040 Sustainable Management of Soil and Water
• 4084 Tourism and Development
• 4110 Fisheries and Aquaculture Management
• 4201 Poverty and Food Security
• 4211 Global Red Meat Chains
• 4212 Global White Meat Chains
• 4213 Global Dairy Food Chain
• 4238 Integrated Organic Systems

Modules will be taught in 10 week blocks.

Assessment

Modules are assessed through written examinations and coursework, including case study analysis, essay writing, oral and poster presentations, and assessed seminars. For the new product development (NPD) module, students are assessed against a food product which they develop and produce in small teams. To complete this module, students are given training in the CIEH Level 2 Award in Food Safety for Manufacturing, which is beneficial to them post-graduation.

Career prospects

Graduates will be equipped with the education and industry experience to progress their career and become food safety and quality management professionals within:

• An international institution – UN (World Food Programme), IFAD, FAO, IFPRI etc.
• Government and statutory bodies – Defra, DflD, FSA etc.
• Business and industry – major agricultural and food supply companies, consultancy
• NGOs – local food associations, aid and development organisations
• Academia and research – lecturer, PhD

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow this link: https://www.rau.ac.uk/STUDY/POSTGRADUATE/HOW-APPLY

Funding

For information on funding, please view the following page: https://www.rau.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/funding

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COURSE DESCRIPTION

This online Global Food Security (Food Safety) postgraduate programme will be delivered by leading research active staff within the internationally recognised Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS) based at Queen’s University Belfast.

This unique food safety course will comprise specialist modules such as chemical and microbiological feed and food safety, health, global food legislation, food fraud and advanced analytical methods for detecting food safety issues. The course is particularly suitable for those working in the agri-food industry, regulatory agencies and analytical communities who wish to develop their knowledge to a higher level.

Awards will be available at Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) and Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) level, and to Masters level following completion of a dissertation-based module.

COURSE DELIVERY

On-line module delivery is currently planned to be 15 weeks long, with required estimated student time per week of between 15-20 hours.

Each module is available for a specified 20 week period each academic year. On-line material will be released over a 15 week content delivery period with a further 5 weeks for completion and submission of the final assessment element.

Module content will be opened up on a block-by-block basis every 3 weeks and students will work at their own pace through content completing continuous assessment tasks to agreed schedules.

Start dates for next DL modules are:

• Food safety and health: Monday 24th September 2018
• Food integrity, fraud and traceability: Monday 4th March 2019 
• Advanced Analytical Tools for Food Security: Monday 23 September 2019
• Global food standards and legislation: Monday 2 March 2020

For further information email [email protected] or send us a message on WhatsApp

COURSE DETAILS

Students can study the Masters part-time over a period of 3 years, the Postgraduate Diploma part-time over a period of 2 years and the Postgraduate Certificate part-time over a period of 1 year. You can also enrol initially for a 1 year Postgraduate Certificate and if successful continue to the Postgraduate Diploma and /or Masters.

Students aiming for MSc qualification will study 60CATS each year, normally the two Postgraduate Certificate modules [60CATS] in the first year, the additional two modules for the Postgraduate Diploma [60CATS; total 120CATS] in second year, and the Dissertation [60CATS; total 180CATS] in third year as described below:

YEAR 1 MODULES

Food Safety and Health 

The contents of this module will centre on the exploration of various chemical and microbiological risks associated with animal feed and human food safety, and an examination of the reported links to health defects/disease progression.

Food Integrity, Fraud and Traceability 

This module will investigate examples of highly varied, internationally relevant and difficult to detect incidences of food fraud and compromised food traceability. The range and types of food fraud will be discussed and the means of detecting such incidences to ensure that food is safe, wholesome and authentic demonstrated. The economic consequences of food product recall due to food contamination incidents will be assessed highlighting the need for traceability across the whole food supply chain, together with an exploration of consumer willingness to pay for improvements to aspects of food safety and traceability.

YEAR 2 MODULES

Advanced Analytical Tools for Food Security 

This module will review the principles behind current and emerging monitoring technologies for rapid/early detection of feed/food contamination incidents and disease. Overviews and applications of various screening and confirmatory test platforms for food security analysis will be covered in this module.

Global Food Standards and Legislation

This module introduces international food standard setting, with a focus on the Codex Alimentarius Commission standard setting process and its impacts on international trade and World Trade Organisation agreements related to food in addition to trends of modernisation of food safety legislation internationally.

YEAR 3 MODULES

Dissertation

This module (60CATS) consists of research work and a written dissertation carried out around a hypothesis, case study, critical incident or other significant activity relevant to the programme. Students will prepare a project proposal for approval before registering on the module and develop a full project proposal upon which they are interviewed before carrying out the project work. Interim reports and a draft introduction will be submitted at required intervals in addition to regular contact with an assigned IGFS academic supervisor and submission of a completed thesis by an agreed deadline. Online teaching delivery will relate to project management skills, plagiarism, researching and writing techniques.

For further information email [email protected] or send us a message on WhatsApp

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The University of Lincoln’s National Centre for Food Manufacturing is an internationally recognised provider of education and research in the food manufacturing and technology sector.

Academics who have occupied senior roles in industry will be available to supervise and advise you throughout your study and independent research. Particular areas of research expertise in the Centre include food chemistry, microbiology, product development, quality and safety systems and technical management.

You will have access to specialist equipment and have the opportunity to conduct in-depth research in an area of interest to you. Research conducted by postgraduate students in the Centre has often had immediate practical application in improving safety, quality and efficiency in food manufacturing. Previous research projects have included food safety, packaging and seal integrity, and resource efficiency of vegetable processing.

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A University of Hertfordshire research degree is an internationally recognised degree signifying high levels of achievement in research. It develops extensive subject expertise and independent research skills which are honed over an extended period, depending on the level of the award. You would undertake a substantial, original research project for the duration of the degree, under the supervision and guidance of two or more academic members of staff. Your supervisory team provides guidance both in the selection of a research topic and in the conduct of the research. You are also supported by attendance at postgraduate seminar series to develop subject specific knowledge and research skills relevant to your field of research. The degree is assessed solely on the basis of the final research output, in the form of a substantial written thesis which must be "defended" in a viva. During the course of the degree, you would be given opportunities to present your work at major conferences and in refereed research publications.

Why choose this course?

-An internationally recognised research qualification
-Developing advanced subject expertise at postgraduate level
-Develop research skills through practice and extensive research experience
-Employers are looking for high calibre graduates with advanced skills who can demonstrate independence through research

Careers

Graduates with this degree will be able to demonstrate to employers a highly-valued ability to work independently on a substantial and challenging original project and to maintain that focus over an extended period, and will have developed much sought after, highly refined research skills.

Teaching methods

Research degrees are not taught programmes, however, programmes of supporting studies are a key element.

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