The way food is produced, processed and what is eaten has changed significantly over time. Whereas it is likely that our great-grandparents ate predominantly local and seasonal foods, today, it is estimated that the average meal travels over 2,400 km, from field to fork. As our food is transported around the world, it is subject to myriad rules and regulations.

Food plays a central role in our societies, cultures, economies and personal lives, but few understand how food makes it to our plates. The Master’s in Food, Society and International Food Governance clarifies this process.

This programme is designed for individuals interested in enhancing their understanding and analysis of agriculture and food policy, and increasing their understanding of the social, cultural and economic factors that influence and shape the development and enforcement of agriculture governance. This combination presents an opportunity to explore connections between the historical, political, scientific, strategic and ethical considerations involved in the organization of food policy and agriculture internationally. The programme trains students to identify and generate solutions for just and sustainable food systems. It attracts a diversity of learners from professionals to those just starting their careers. All of our students share an interest in the organization of food systems and in food governance.

The Master’s is made up of two mandatory Specialisations, two elected Specialisations and a Final Research Project. A Specialisation is a 4 month, 15 ECTS credit course made up of a series of modules (usually 3 or 4). The Specialisations can be taken independently or as part of the Master’s.

Mandatory Specialisations:
Food Systems Analysis
International Agri-Food Policy

Elective Specialisations:
Food and Society
Food Regulation (with MSU’s IFLR)

Food Security: Assessment and Action (with FAO)
Impact Assessment of Food Security Progammes

Understanding the Right to Food

 

Final Research Project:

The Master’s in Food, Society and International Food Governance provides you with an opportunity to pursue a research topic in your area of interest. You may collaborate with your employer to develop a project or you may opt to undertake an independent research project. A UOC advisor must approve your research question and will work with you to carry out the research in an appropriate and timely fashion.

This Final Research Project (6 or 9 ECTS) is required to complete the Master’s in Food, Society and International Food Governance and is to be completed over the duration of the Master’s programme. In general, research will be multi-disciplinary and will have a practical application.

The Final Research Project will be evaluated by an Academic Committee. The Committee can include a mentor from your company or organization. Agreements with industry on confidentiality are always strictly taken into account. Students must defend their project. This can be done virtually (as long as it is synchronous) or in person.

Completing the Final Research Project is a major task that requires patience and dedication. We will work with you to make it manageable and make sure that you acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to excel at the task.

This programme will prepare you to meet the demand for knowledgeable and well-trained food systems analysts and leaders, by fostering practical and critical learning with an international perspective.

The courses are geared towards:

• Individuals working in NGOs and community organizations that address issues related to food and agriculture
• Individuals working in the agri-food sector
• Public administrators
• Civil Servants
• Policy analysts
• Consultants
• Lawyers
• Journalists specializing in food politics
• Professional organizations or international cooperation projects that address issues linked to food and agriculture
• Students wishing further education on issues of agri-food governance

Providing students with the necessary tools for improving their employability, giving them the right to knowledge and education to be successful in the different occupations they will have during their lives, is a fundamental purpose of our postgraduate programmes.

Price

4.395 euros

Consult the financial aid that the UOC offers to international students.

 

The programme fees should be confirmed on enrolment.