Why Choose UC Davis for Your Sensory Science Training?

Whether you’re looking to stay current in your field, need practical skills to advance in your career or academic knowledge to complement your work experience, UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education’s (CPE) Applied Sensory and Consumer Science Certificate Program is an investment in professional development that can help you achieve your goals. As the industry-recognized leader in the education of sensory science professionals, our online sensory science program combines the academic and real-world expertise you need to succeed. So why choose UC Davis CPE?  

You’ll learn from the best

Backed by the UC Davis Department of Food Science and Technology, our program provides an academically rigorous, graduate-level curriculum taught by recognized leaders in the field. Offering a career-focused alternative to a master’s degree, instructors Rebecca Bleibaum, chief sensory officer at Tragon Corporation, and Jean-Xavier Guinard, professor of sensory science at UC Davis, have a passion for sensory science and teaching. They bring decades of experience and applications they’ve learned from a business perspective, including product development issues, quality control issues and ad claims substantiation.  

You’ll join a global community of select sensory science professionals

The Applied Sensory and Consumer Science Certificate Program has graduated around 750 students from 35 countries, representing a diverse array of sensory science jobs in various industries, including Nestlé, Pepsi, L’Oréal, Unilever and Mondeléz International. Program alumni often attend global conferences, such as the Society of Sensory Professionals Conference and the Pangborn Sensory Science Symposium, creating many opportunities for you to connect in person. The connections you make with peers from around the world and the network you build are some of the most valuable benefits of the program. According to Bleibaum, “What we’ve heard from students, and the value they get out of the course, is that most of the learning really comes from the discussion boards and dialogues they have with each other.” Check out our student reviews to hear directly from our alumni. 

You’ll gain a scientifically based foundation in sensory science

What makes this program unique is its scientific approach to understanding the foundations of sensory science and the methodologies used in sensory evaluation and consumer testing to design better products and services. “Sensory science is a very complex subject matter and it needs to be approached scientifically,” explains Guinard. The field involves psychology, statistics, psychophysics and physiology, all of which are covered in this program.  

You’ll get an immediate return on investment

Designed for working professionals, this program provides sensory and consumer science theory, tools and techniques for on-the-job application. Assignments are designed to not only gauge your mastery of the material, but to actually help you as you design and carry out research.  

You’ll receive one-on-one support

Our instructors are not only passionate about teaching, but they are actively rooting for your success in the program. As a student, you’ll have opportunities to personally connect with the instructors, who solicit your questions and are there to guide you through any issues you may encounter during the program.  

You’ll get flexible online learning that won’t interfere with your job

Our paced-asynchronous program allows you to advance your career conveniently and without interruption to your personal and professional responsibilities. The format is engaging and interactive—taking advantage of the latest technologies in online learning—and includes podcasts with instructors and industry experts. Plus, you can complete the program in less than 12 months.