
Program Overview and Course Structure
VTSU CAFE – The Applied Meat Processing & Butchery Arts Certificate Program is a hybrid training program for a career in the meat industry. The meat industry demands technical expertise with a deep understanding of safety and ethical standards. As consumers increasingly seek transparency and quality, professionals who can merge skill and regulatory knowledge are in high demand. This certificate gives candidates the chance to build a robust foundation while adapting to the ever-changing landscape of food production and processing. To meet these evolving needs, the MeatCraft Butcher Program at VTSU provides a comprehensive curriculum, within three stackable levels, designed to develop well-rounded professionals
Total Credits
Level 1: MeatCraft Apprentice Butcher: 13 credits
Level 2: MeatCraft Artisan Butcher: 23 credits
Level 3: MeatCraft Master Butcher: 30 credits
Program Outcomes
Program Structure:
Description and Details
Structure
Sequential, skill-building format, practical understanding, foundational concepts, specialized techniques, safety, sanitation, butchery, processing, regulatory compliance
Format
Hybrid delivery, online lecture, hands-on intensives, mentorship, peer collaboration, focused instruction, abattoir (meat facility) internship, regional partner sites, traceability, humane handling, value-added meat products
Completion
Certificate in Meat Processing and Food Safety, Credentials valued by employers
Targeted Population
High school students (dual and early college enrollment), working adults, culinary professionals, aspiring butchers, Retail meat operations, processing plants, butcher shops, local food systems
As an SME, you will create and revise original course materials following VTSU Online’s established course development process, including templates, milestones, and quality reviews. Compensation per course is $ 1,000.00/credit.
Course Details:
AFF-1065: Applied Communication & Problem Solving
Course 5: (Shared across Certificates) Brains & Strategy - How to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse
Catalog Title: Applied Communication & Problem Solving
Credit Hours: 3
Format: 100% Online, Fall, AFF1065
Catalog Description:
Development of written, verbal and non-verbal communication skills through effective use of logic. Practical skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication will be cultivated through an engagement in scenario-based explorations of a fictional zombie apocalypse. Emphasis is placed on collaborative decision-making, stress resilience, and real-time reasoning; preparing students to perform with clarity and confidence in high-stakes workforce environments.
Learning Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Prerequisite: No prior survival training required—just an open mind and a sense of humor.
Minimum Qualifications
Required minimum qualifications: