Tennessee's Meat Science pathway develops expertise in meat processing, food safety, and quality management for the state's significant meat production industry. Tennessee produces beef, pork, and poultry for national and international markets, creating demand for skilled meat science professionals.
Students learn meat animal production, processing techniques, food safety standards, quality control, and product development. Coursework includes microbiology, sanitation practices, regulatory compliance, and hands-on processing experience in certified facilities.
Graduates work as meat processing technicians, quality inspectors, production managers, food safety specialists, or sales representatives for meat companies. Strong employment prospects and competitive wages ($36,000-$58,000) make this an attractive pathway.
Meat Science at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Tennessee's meat science standards align with USDA food safety regulations and industry best practices. The state emphasizes food safety certification (HACCP), quality control, and professional food handling.
Assessment includes written exams on food safety and microbiology, practical demonstrations of processing and quality procedures, and industry certifications.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Principles of Agriculture |
| Meat Science I |
| Meat Science II |
| Food Safety and Quality Assurance |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓ServSafe Manager
- ✓Certified Veterinary Assistant
- ✓Certified Horticulture Professional
- ✓Certified Landscape Technician
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓NOCTI Agriculture Mechanics
- ✓NOCTI Agricultural Production
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Meat Processing Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $31,200 - $45,320
Adjusted for cost of living: $33,722
Quality Control Inspector
ExperiencedSalary range: $37,490 - $53,840
Adjusted for cost of living: $48,487
Production Supervisor
ExperiencedSalary range: $51,440 - $80,710
Adjusted for cost of living: $68,245
Food Safety Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $45,340 - $58,470
Adjusted for cost of living: $53,448
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students complete internships at meat processing plants and food production facilities throughout Tennessee.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in National FFA Organization, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Tennessee CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Tennessee Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Tennessee's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Tennessee standards and industry needs evolve
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