June 17, 2020
University of Minnesota’s Integrated Food Systems Leadership Program Announces Inclusion in Newly Created Master’s Program
Cross-Collegiate program launches this fall through College of Continuing & Professional Studies
The University of Minnesota’s Integrated Food Systems Leadership (IFSL) program is pleased to announce the inclusion of its program and curriculum in the newly created Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Applied Sciences Leadership being offered through the University of Minnesota’s College of Continuing and Professional Studies.
Developed to grow leaders to feed the future, the IFSL graduate certificate program was launched last year in in partnership with the University of Minnesota’s College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences, the School of Public Health and the College of Veterinary Medicine. Drawing from the experience of cross-collegiate faculty and industry advisors, IFSL helps food system professionals develop the food system knowledge and skills needed to achieve better results -- locally, regionally and globally.
“When the University of Minnesota launched the IFSL program in September 2019, it was unknown at the time just how relevant the program would be in today’s environment,” said Dr. Jennifer van de Ligt, IFSL program Director. “The need to prepare food leaders to navigate uncertainty, and more effectively work towards solving short- and long-term challenges in our global food system has never been greater. I’m thrilled the IFSL program will continue to grow its reach and impact in partnership with the College of Continuing and Professional Studies and its new master’s program.”
With the newly offered Master of Professional (MPS) in Applied Sciences Leadership, IFSL program graduates can continue their IFSL journey and secure the next level of education and academic achievement. For those who are interested in pursuing this new master’s from the onset, that option is also available.
“By extending the IFSL program credits to the MPS in Applied Sciences Leadership, working professionals and continuing education students are able to grow in their careers to make positive impact on the new food system challenges we face.”
- Brian Buhr, Dean of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences.
“With the new Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Applied Sciences Leadership, we are able meet students where they’re at in their professional journey,” Michelle Iwen, Associate Director for Graduate Programs, College of Continuing and Professional Studies. “Having the IFSL certificate coursework form an additional credential within our new master’s program allows farm-to-fork leaders to integrate technical and leadership skills as they set out to reshape our essential food system.”
At completion of the MPS in Applied Sciences Leadership program, students will receive their masters along with the IFSL graduate certificate and a Leadership for Science Professionals graduate certificate. Visit the University of Minnesota’s College of Continuing and Professional Studies site to learn more. The IFSL 13-month program is accepting applications for its next class that will begin in September 2020.
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About the University of Minnesota’s Integrated Food Systems Leadership Program
Delivering a comprehensive and actionable educational experience, the University of Minnesota’s Integrated Food Systems Leadership (IFSL) Program broadens the knowledge and understanding of the global food supply chain and interdependencies across the food system, while promoting critical thinking and problem solving across disciplines. IFSL is a Post-Baccalaureate Regents Certificate program designed for working professionals and bridges the gap between traditional food system education and a professional leadership program.