Johnson & Wales University’s College of Food Innovation & Technology is cultivating the next generation of food system leaders.
Through hands-on learning, interdisciplinary study, and real-world impact, gain the tools to make food more sustainable, equitable and innovative — locally and globally. Pathways are offered at our Providence, R.I. campus.
JWU’s Food Systems Leadership pathway centers food as a way to actively shape a more resilient food future. Strengthen your understanding of food systems across JWU Providence’s suite of three unique programs — Sustainable Food Systems B.S., Food Systems Innovation & Leadership M.S. and Graduate Certificate in Advanced Food Systems Studies.
No matter which program you choose, learn to define what food systems leadership looks like to you. From agriculture to advocacy, entrepreneurship to education, sustainability policy to supply chain management, gain the knowledge and skills to drive impact across the food economy.
What will your journey look like? Here are some options for tailoring your path:
Bachelor’s → Certificate → Master’s
Bachelor’s → Master’s
Bachelor’s → Juris Doctorate (accelerated pathway via articulation)
Programs That Build Your Pathway
Sustainable Food Systems (B.S.)
Build ecological literacy, food policy insight and hands-on experience to lead sustainable change.
Grounded in professional kitchens, farms and community-based action, this interdisciplinary bachelor of science program examines the connections between food, culture, policy, the environment and public health.
Interdisciplinary learning across food, culture and environment
Focus on agricultural supply chain and community-based learning
Bridge your undergraduate learning to advanced food systems leadership.
Gain practical insights into emerging food technologies, systems strategy and responsible industry leadership — and learn to address complex food system challenges that can’t be solved within a single discipline.
Gain a terminal degree in law to shape the future of food.
JWU maintains articulation agreements with Rogers Williams School of Law and University of Massachusetts School of Law to facilitate accelerated study.
Use free electives and internship credits to shave years off earning a terminal degree
Apply a foundation in food sustainability to a career in law
Complete studies in partnership with University of Massachusetts School of Law or Roger Williams Law School
Systems Thinking: Gain an understanding the full food chain — from production to policy.
Innovation & Leadership: Learn to conceptualize and design new solutions for global food challenges.
Sustainability & Justice: Explore innovative ways to build equitable, resilient food systems for all.
Applied Learning: Learn by doing — in the kitchen, on the farm, in the field and on the job.
Career Possibilities
Food Systems Analyst
Food Policy Advocate
Supply Chain Strategist
Food Innovation Consultant
Community Food Program Director
Food Business Entrepreneur
Sustainability Education Coordinator
Food Operations Coordinator
Community Programs Coordinator
Farm to Table Chef or Sustainable Culinary Lead
Industry Partners & Sectors
NGOs and nonprofits
Corporate sustainability
Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) departments
Food tech and innovation startups
Government and policy agencies
Higher education and community development
Private and public food service enterprises
Some professions may require additional study, background checks, certifications, licenses, exams and/or experience as required qualifications for employment. Students are responsible for verifying that they can meet the employment requirements of potential employers.
Visit Campus
Take the first step and plan your visit to campus. It’s the best way to see what our community is like and to start picturing yourself living and learning in the heart of the city.
