Food and food security have always been important to humankind; however, the nature of food availability, food production, and food supply is constantly changing. The world's food system is in disarray. One in ten people is undernourished, one in four is overweight, and more than one-third of the world's population cannot afford a healthy diet. Food supplies are disrupted by heatwaves, floods, droughts and wars but are responsible for about 30% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions.

Now more than ever we live in a global world where food is traded as a commodity, but systems that impact and interrupt this trade can have dramatic effects on the food we eat. On top of this are the complexities of consumer demands, nutrition, climate change, and sustainability.

This micro-credential will give you a broad overview of the global food system today. It will include the current state of food, agriculture and fisheries, the key influences on food systems, the role of government policies and interventions. It will explore the threats and opportunities the sector faces and what is needed to transition to a more sustainable, resilient food system and what the future of food and farming might look like.

• Applicants are required to hold an NFQ level 8 Honours degree (minimum 2nd Class Honours Lower) or equivalent.
• Applicants who do not meet this requirement may be admitted on the basis of considerable relevant experience.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proof of English proficiency as per UCD's minimum English language requirements.
• All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.