MSc in Food Sciences

Key Points

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The Master’s Degree (Food Sciences) is a full-time graduate program that lasts 12 months from the date of first enrollment.

The course is taught by staff from the Faculty of Food and Nutrition Sciences, the Department of Microbiology, and the Department of Food Business and Development.

The UCC has a history of nearly a century of teaching and research in the food sciences and is among the largest multidisciplinary research and education institutions in Europe with world-class academics working in all aspects of the food arena. Our world-class facilities include extensive, well-equipped laboratories and a large pilot plant with excellent dairy, meat and bakery facilities, as well as a modern pilot-scale brewery.

Program structure

Part 1

Students earn 60 credits as follows:

Part 2

FS6102 Dissertation in Food Sciences (30 credits)

Course practices

Evaluation.

The taught modules of this course are assessed by an exam in winter, spring and summer. The research aspect is evaluated according to the quality of a substantial written thesis.

Career opportunities

By completing this course, you will be able to:

• Conduct original research in food science
• Demonstrate understanding of the scientific literature
• Apply critical thinking and problem solving skills in food science
• Explain the techniques used in food research, both in principle and in practice
• Communicate effectively with the food industry and with society in general
• Show a comprehensive understanding of current trends in food consumers and the food industry

Admission requirements

Candidates must possess a minimum of second grade with class I honors in a primary honors degree (NFQ, level 8) or equivalent qualification, in a discipline with a significant element of laboratory science. However, candidates with equivalent academic qualifications may be accepted subject to University approval under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

English Requirements

All graduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency. Certain tests (eg, IELTS, TOEFL, and Pearson PTE) have a three-year time limit on their validity and will apply. English language tests must be taken no more than three years prior to the start of a program.

Please note that Secure English Language Test (SELT) scores must be obtained in a single session of the corresponding qualification (for example, IELTS and TOEFL). We will not accept a combination of individual component scores from multiple tests.

Applicants who are nationals of a country that, according to the UCC, is predominantly English-speaking, or who have a degree or equivalent qualification that was taught in a country that is considered predominantly English-speaking, will normally be assumed to have met the language requirements of the UCC. However, in some circumstances, applicants may be required to present evidence of an English language qualification to satisfy the college program entry requirements.

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