The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has expanded its academic offering with two specialised Companion Animal Nutrition Certificate programmes, designed for both industry professionals and current students seeking rigorous, science‑based training in pet nutrition. Led by internationally recognised experts Dr Kelly Swanson and Dr Maria de Godoy, the certificates provide advanced knowledge in metabolism, diet formulation, pet food processing, microbiome science and quality assurance.
The certificate for non‑students —delivered fully online— is aimed at veterinarians, formulators, quality‑control specialists, breeders and pet‑care professionals who wish to deepen their expertise without enrolling in a full degree. The programme consists of three university‑level courses covering canine and feline nutrient requirements, ingredient evaluation, formulation principles, processing technologies, regulatory frameworks and global market trends. Participants may also earn continuing education credits, making the programme particularly valuable for professionals seeking structured career development.
The on‑campus certificate for UIUC students integrates scientific foundations with practical industry applications, preparing graduates for roles in pet food companies, research institutions, animal health organisations and related sectors. Both pathways stand out for their academic rigour, practical relevance and strong connection to current research and industry innovation, offering a comprehensive route to professional advancement in the rapidly growing field of companion animal nutrition.
Learn more: Companion Animal Nutrition Certificate for Current UIUC Students | Animal Sciences | Illinois
