Master of Science in Food Regulatory Affairs

Navigate a Changing Regulatory Landscape with Confidence

The regulatory environment for food production and enforcement is constantly evolving. Responsibility for compliance rests with food companies—many of which lack the internal expertise to accurately interpret and implement complex regulations. This gap can result in costly or even dangerous mistakes. The online Master of Science in Food Regulatory Affairs equips professionals in the food industry with the knowledge and skills to meet these challenges head-on.

Program Features:

  • Specialized Expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge of food laws and regulations—an essential asset for advancing your career in today’s highly regulated food sector.

  • Flexible Learning: 100% online and asynchronous coursework allows you to balance professional, academic, and personal responsibilities.

  • Career-Focused Design: Ideal for early- to mid-career professionals looking to specialize or advance in food regulatory roles.

  • Expert-Led Instruction: IFLR faculty have backgrounds in science and law, and rich teaching experience, both in-person and online. Their expertise spans across academia, industry, and government, offering students practical and globally-informed insights.

  • Accreditation: Offered through Michigan State University, a Land Grant and Big Ten institution.

Graduates of the program will be able to:

  • Apply food science principles within a regulatory framework.

  • Communicate in scientific and regulatory language with regulatory agencies.

  • Navigate compliance challenges in both U.S. and international food and beverage markets.

  • Ensure a claim has sufficient scientific evidence for substantiation.

  • Understand laws and regulations of agencies such as the FDA, USDA, and TTB—covering areas like labeling, claims, adulteration, misbranding, inspections, enforcement, and compliance.

  • Understand global regulatory standards, including those set by the Codex Alimentarius, WHO, WTO, and related scientific and trade organizations.

  • Be a regulatory leader in their organization.