Program Overview

Program Overview

The Postgraduate Certificate in Food Safety, Hygiene and Management is a part-time program that can be completed in one year. It is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver official controls for the Food Standards Agency and Local Authorities.

Course Structure

The program comprises 60 credits of taught material, with each module lasting one week. Students are required to attend 6 weeks of formal tuition, plus home study and assessment.

Term 1

In Term 1, students complete compulsory modules in Food Production and Food Enforcement. These modules cover the principles of food manufacturing technology and the application of official controls to food premises.

Term 2

The modules listed for Term 2 are subject to change, and students should contact the university for more information.

Course Highlights

• The program is ranked 6th in the UK for Chemical Engineering by the Complete University Guide 2026.
• The University of Birmingham is ranked 76th in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
• The program shares taught elements with the MSc and PG Diploma in Food Safety Hygiene and Management.
• Students learn from a multidisciplinary team of leading specialists with applied knowledge and strong links with government authorities and the food industry.

Course Delivery

Teaching on the course includes formal lectures, problem-based case studies, tutorials, directed learning, e-learning, and laboratory/practical sessions.

Module Information

The program consists of 60 credits of taught material, with 30 credits of compulsory modules and 30 credits of optional modules. The modules listed are subject to change, and students should contact the university for more information.

Core Modules

• Food Enforcement (Vets) - 10 credits
• Food Production (Vets) - 10 credits
• Food Standards - 10 credits

Optional Modules

• Chemical Contamination of Food and Water - 10 credits
• Food Inspection - 10 credits
• Applied Food Microbiology - 10 credits
• Food Chain Security - 10 credits
• Food Fraud - 10 credits
• Food Processing and Manufacture (thermal processing) - 10 credits
• Food Safety Management Systems - 20 credits
• Investigating Food Borne Outbreaks - 10 credits
• Novel Food Processing - 10 credits
• Principles of Nutrition - 10 credits
• Water and Health - 10 credits
• Sustainability in the Food Industry - 10 credits

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at the University of Birmingham, students must meet the general entry requirements and those specific to the course. The application will be reviewed by the course's Admissions Tutor.

• A recognised veterinary qualification as detailed in Directive 2005/36/EC annex 5 point 5.4.2.
• A minimum of two years relevant experience in the UK.
• Competency in English (IELTS 6 with no less than 5.5 in any band or equivalent).

Fees and Scholarships

The University tuition fee covers the cost of tuition, supervision, assessment, and includes membership to the Guild of Students.

• £4,050 per year of study starting in September 2026.
• Tuition fees can be paid in full or by instalments.

Application Process

To apply for the program, students must submit their application and supporting documents online.

• Application deadline for UK and non-visa requiring applicants: 28 August 2026.
• Early applications are encouraged.

Career Opportunities

The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health as fulfilling the academic part of the Higher Certificate in Food Control. Graduates will be qualified to deliver the full range of official controls in food premises for the FSA and Local Authorities.

Related Courses

• Food Safety, Hygiene and Management MSc / PGCert / PGDip

Student Experience

The University of Birmingham offers a range of support services and facilities to enhance the student experience, including accommodation options, activities, and academic support.