This certificate program will allow students to fulfill the required qualifications for a USDA Food Inspector at the GS-5 level. One year of specialized experience demonstrating knowledge, judgement, interpretative ability and technical skill is required and once the student passes a written exam issued by the USDA, they are employable as a federal inspector. Emphasis and experience will be in a meat processing facility.

Program Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate ability to use knives and equipment necessary to harvest livestock, process fresh meat, and package final product in accordance to HACCP guidelines

2. Understand hazards and sources of contamination and repercussions of contamination

3. Proficiency in sanitation of equipment and work area to prevent contamination

4. Apply knowledge to execute proper business etiquette both in and out of processing facilities

Required Course of Study: