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2023-2024 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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Sustainable Food Systems Undergraduate Certificate

The sustainable food systems certificate is housed within the environmental and sustainability studies (ENS) program. Strong local food systems are essential for healthy local communities. Students preparing for careers in local food enterprises, health care, sustainability, education, business, social work, nonprofit administration, and many other fields will benefit from the skills and experience necessary to address the role of food in community life.

All undergraduate certificates at GVSU have received Higher Learning Commission approval. Individuals may pursue the sustainable food systems certificate independently or concurrently with any undergraduate degree or major. Any course that satisfies both requirements will be counted toward the certificate and the student's major or minor.

Why Study Sustainable Food Systems at Grand Valley?

  • Gain a deep understanding of sustainable food systems' impact on society and the environment.
  • Engage in practical experience gardening, composting, and marketing at GVSU's Sustainable Agriculture Project, the on-campus student farm.
  • Acquire the skills to integrate multiple perspectives on food justice, environmental stewardship, and food science and safety.
  • Learn and understand the food needs of diverse communities.
  • Develop advocacy strategies to support local food systems that sustain the environment now and into the future.

Certificate Requirements

To earn the certificate, students complete a total of 16 to 21 credits. In addition to three required courses, students select one course from each of the two groups of electives, and one additional elective from either group for a total of three elective courses. No more than two electives with the same prefix are allowed.

Required Courses

Students complete seven to 10 credits, including:

Elective Courses

Students take nine to 11 credits as follows. Courses taken for the required courses may not count toward the elective courses.

Group One: Agriculture

Select at least one course from the following (three to four credits):

Group Two: Food and Nutrition

Select at least one course from the following (three to four credits):

Environmental and Sustainability Studies Program Description

Click here for the program description.



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