Overview of the accreditation process
Accreditation applies to individual degrees and is based on peer review. Applications are assessed by a panel of three trained reviewers from academia and industry with relevant expertise, with decisions overseen by a Chief Assessor. Applications are usually reviewed within 2 months. Accreditation normally lasts 5 years, unless major course changes occur.
Key requirements
For accreditation, at least 50% of BSc content and 80% of MSc content must be food-related.
Courses must cover:
- Food Safety
- HACCP
- Quality Assurance and Legislation
- Principles of human nutrition.
Adequate facilities and resources (e.g. laboratories, pilot plant, sensory facilities, IT and library access) must be available to support learning.
Accreditation Fees
Accreditation costs £2,815 for the first course and £2,250 for additional courses processed at the same time.
An annual 'revalidation' maintenance fee of £170 applies. At this time a form needs to be submitted declaring if there have been any substantial course changes.
How to apply
You will need to complete an application form and provide a portfolio of supporting evidence to demonstrate that your course meets the stated requirements.
Please contact accreditation@ifst.org for an application form.