Sustainable Food Systems Undergraduate Certificate
Strong local food systems are essential for healthy communities. Working professionals as well as students preparing for careers in local food enterprises, health care, sustainability, education, business, nonprofit administration, social work, and many other fields will benefit from the skills and experience necessary to address the role of food in community life.
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.
Admissions
For new students, visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements. Upon acceptance and for current students:
- Declare your certificate via myBanner (Login to Banner Self-Service, click on Student, Student Records, Add a Certificate or Badge to your Program, Select the appropriate certificate from the drop down list, and click Submit)
- Speak with the appropriate advisor to ensure criteria are being met (you will be able to track your progress toward the certificate in myPath as well!)
- Once you are done with the requirements, apply to receive the certificate via myBanner.
- Once the completion of your certificate has been verified, the certificate will be posted to your student record and will be viewable on your transcript.
Location & Format
Students may complete courses for this program online, hybrid, or in-seat at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.
Formats:Coursework
The certificate in sustainable food systems may be pursued independently or concurrently with any undergraduate degree or major at GVSU. To earn the certificate, students complete six classes - 18 to 21 total credits - from a list of required and elective courses.
The sustainable food systems curriculum covers:
- Environmental change
- Food safety
- Human health
- International food and culture
- Nutrition
- Soil science
- Sustainable agriculture
Career Options
The sustainable food systems certificate is a valuable credential to apply in a variety of careers, such as:
- Sustainable agriculture and food systems
- Environmental education, communications, and media
- Health and wellness
- Sustainable community development
- Land-use planning
Admission Requirements
For new students, visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements. Upon acceptance and for current students:
- Declare your certificate via myBanner (Login to Banner Self-Service, click on Student, Student Records, Add a Certificate or Badge to your Program, Select the appropriate certificate from the drop down list, and click Submit)
- Speak with the appropriate advisor to ensure criteria are being met (you will be able to track your progress toward the certificate in myPath as well!)
- Once you are done with the requirements, apply to receive the certificate via myBanner.
- Once the completion of your certificate has been verified, the certificate will be posted to your student record and will be viewable on your transcript.
Helpful Links
For More Information
School of Interdisciplinary StudiesEnvironmental and Sustainability Studies
gvsu.edu/ens
167 Lake Michigan Hall
(616) 331-8016
[email protected]