Commodity science in bioeconomy

The studies prepare students to assess the quality and functional properties of renewable biological resources used in the production of food and other goods. The study program includes, among others basics of management, engineering graphics, basics of marketing, materials science and materials engineering. Students learn about the issues of commodity science in primary production and food processing, instrumental methods of product evaluation and quality management. They acquire knowledge and skills in the field of microeconomics, macroeconomics, marketing, management, forecasting and the functioning of the market economy. After this course, they deal with research and development of products or packaging, standardization, attestation and certification of products. They also work in quality assurance, commodity-related product management, research institutes and R&D centers, as well as in export and finance departments.

Bioeconomy is a new branch of the economy dealing with the sustainable use of renewable biological resources towards the production of goods (food, medicinal products and others) and services (energy) that meet the current needs of society without adversely affecting the activities of future generations.

Study program in the field of commodity science in bioeconomy covers a wide range of issues related to the testing and evaluation of product performance (food, herbs, wood, agricultural and horticultural crops) and factors determining their quality. Students learn to manage a product as well as to use micro- and macroeconomics and marketing techniques.

Graduates are able to work in a team, know the principles of managing human resources, can set up and run small and medium-sized companies. In addition, they are prepared to shape product quality through their design and manufacturing technology, and to protect and control product quality. They also have knowledge in the field of management, forecasting and functioning of the market economy.

The study programme includes m.in. subjects:
microeconomics, macroeconomics, logistics, basics of management, biochemistry, microbiology, materials and materials science, engineering graphics, basics of marketing, commodity science in primary production and food processing, instrumental methods of product evaluation, computer technology in commodity trading, quality management.

The graduate is prepared to work as:

• commodity expert,
• specialist for brand quality,
• specialist for commodity management of the product,
• employee of the quality assurance department,
• specialist in the control department, e.g. in commercial and sanitary quality inspection or customs offices,
• specialist for research and development of the product or packaging,
• specialist for distribution of goods,
• coordinator for organization of deliveries,
• a laboratory technician specializing in standardization, attestation and certification of products,
• employee of research institutions and research and development centers,
• sales representative / advisor,
• specialist in the following departments: export, financial, purchase coordination in various companies related to the broadly understood bioeconomy.