This program is designed for professionals who want to advance public health through science-driven food safety regulations. You’ll prepare for regulatory roles in sectors such as retail, manufacturing, distribution and public health, where protecting the food supply is critical.
By gaining expertise in both general regulatory science and specialized food safety practices, you'll be positioned to improve oversight, reduce risks and help ensure the safety of consumers and communities.
If you're more interested in regulatory roles for pharmaceuticals, biologics or medical devices, consider ASU’s online Master of Science in regulatory science. This general track program offers comprehensive training in FDA regulations, quality systems and product safety across medical industries.
The knowledge and skills you’ll develop
In this food safety master’s, you’ll explore how regulatory science applies to food safety systems and public health protections. The coursework is grounded in real-world applications and aligned with the standards of agencies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Topics you’ll study include:
- Contamination response and emergency food handling
- Ethical and legal frameworks in food regulation
- Food safety hazards and risk analysis
- Inspection and auditing techniques
- Local, state and federal food safety policies
This concentration also reflects the content of the Certified Professional – Food Safety exam offered by the National Environmental Health Association. While the program doesn’t result in certification, it can help prepare you to pursue this credential.
If you’re ready to step into a leadership role in food safety, Arizona State University’s online Master of Science in regulatory science with a concentration in food safety can help you advance to that level. You’ll explore the science behind foodborne risks and gain the regulatory knowledge needed to protect public health and strengthen the food supply chain. After graduating, you’ll be equipped to lead evidence-based solutions to improve food safety and advance health protections across industries.
Courses in the food safety concentration teach you how to prevent contamination and apply regulatory best practices across the food supply chain. You’ll also explore foundational topics in clinical research and medical product regulation through a transdisciplinary lens. Courses include:
The Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation is the home to world-renowned and award-winning faculty members. Our faculty’s accomplishments include, but aren’t limited to:
- Fulbright Senior Scholar
- National faculty nursing awards
- Rosalynn Carter National Leadership Award in Caregiving
- Ruth B. Freeman Award from the American Public Health Association
ASU’s Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation provides a world-class education to students across various health disciplines. We distinguish ourselves by delivering excellent programs and challenging courses led by high-quality instructors.
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Applicants to the online food safety master’s degree must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation.
Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program. Alternatively, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in an applicable master's program.
The Edson College highly recommends but doesn’t require, Introductory Chemistry (three credits plus a one-credit lab) and Introductory Biology (three credits) prior to admission.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
The program of study is tailored for students with undergraduate coursework in physical sciences related to food safety. It’s preferable if candidates have some background in chemistry and biology. Prior coursework in food science or food safety is desirable, but not required.
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
An interview may be required.
ASU's academic programs that prepare you for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states. For additional information, visit the professional licensure webpage.
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”