Graduate Certificate in Food System Planning
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to be talking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in Food System Planning and the lead instructor for the Graduate Certificate in Food System Planning at the University of XYZ. Dr. Smith, can you tell us a bit about this course and what inspired you to create it? GUEST: Sure, the Graduate Certificate in Food System Planning is designed to equip urban planners, agricultural professionals, and policymakers with the skills to design and manage sustainable and resilient food systems. I was inspired to create this course because of the growing need for professionals who can address food security, supply chain management, and community food systems. HOST: That's fascinating. Can you share any personal experiences or insights related to the importance of Food System Planning? GUEST: Absolutely, I've seen firsthand how food system challenges can impact communities, from food deserts in urban areas to the vulnerability of our global food supply chains. Food System Planning is a crucial field that can contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future. HOST: I couldn't agree more. Are there any current industry trends that are especially relevant to this course? GUEST: Yes, there's a growing emphasis on sustainable agriculture, data analysis, and GIS for informed decision-making. Our course covers all of these topics, giving students the tools they need to make a real impact in the field. HOST: That's great to hear. What challenges have you faced in teaching this subject, and how have you addressed them? GUEST: One of the biggest challenges is the interdisciplinary nature of Food System Planning. We've addressed this by bringing in experts from various fields and encouraging students to think holistically about food systems. HOST: Looking to the future, where do you see the field of Food System Planning heading? GUEST: I believe Food System Planning will become even more critical as we face challenges like climate change, population growth, and increasing urbanization. Our course is designed to prepare students for these challenges and to be leaders in this important field. HOST: Thank you, Dr. Smith, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. It's been a pleasure learning more about the Graduate Certificate in Food System Planning. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure sharing my thoughts on this important topic.
