BSc (Hons) Food Science

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Food Science at University College Cork is designed for aspiring innovators eager to shape the future of food, focusing on developing new products for health-conscious consumers, athletic performance, and disease prevention. You will gain a unique blend of scientific and technical expertise, preparing you for dynamic careers in research and development, food processing, and production. This undergraduate degree provides a robust foundation in the science behind food, exploring its structure, behaviour, and the critical role of microbiology and processing in meeting modern consumer demands.

This full-time, four-year programme is studied on campus, integrating core modules in food chemistry, microbiology, process engineering, and nutrition with practical application. You will engage in hands-on learning through laboratory work, pilot-scale facilities, and a significant third-year work placement, offering invaluable industry experience. The curriculum culminates in a team research and development project, allowing you to tackle real-world food product development and innovation challenges. You will graduate with the skills and experience sought by leading food companies, ready for roles in science, technology, and innovation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc (Hons) Food Science program provides a comprehensive education in the scientific principles underpinning food production, processing, and consumption. Students will explore core areas including biochemistry, chemistry, physiology, and microbiology, alongside specialized food technology, quality, and safety topics. The curriculum progresses through foundational knowledge in the early years to advanced concepts and practical applications in product development, packaging, and industrial processes in later years, culminating in research and innovation projects.

1 Year 1

Introduction to Biochemistry and the Biological Basis of Disease
Physiology and Structure of Plants and Animals
Introductory Chemistry for Food and Nutritional Sciences
Food Technology, Culture and Ethics
Success Skills for Food Scientists
Calculus for Science Part 1
Calculus for Science Part 2
Microbiology in Society
Physics for Biomedical, Environmental, Food and Nutritional Sciences

2 Year 2

Biomolecules
Principles of Metabolic Pathways
Introductory Food Chemistry - Analytical Methods
Introductory Food Chemistry: Food Constituents A
Introductory Food Chemistry - Selected Topics in Physical Chemistry
Food Process Design and Optimisation
Topics in Food Quality, Hygiene and Legislation
Fundamentals of Microbiology
Principles of Microbiology
Fundamentals of Nutrition Part 1
Process Engineering Principles
Introduction to Biostatistics

3 Year 3

Fundamentals of Food Packaging
Proteins and Lipids in Food Systems
Macromolecules, Emulsions and Food Structure
Dairy Processing and Preservation
Ingredient Recovery from Milk, Whey and their Co-Products
Methods of Food Processing and Analysis
Professional Skills for Food Scientists
Sensory Evaluation for Food and Nutritional Sciences
Food and Industrial Microbiology I
Food and Industrial Microbiology II
Work Placement 1
Food Industry Skills

4 Year 4

Team Research and Development Project
Food Product Development and Innovation
Cereals and Related Beverages
Advanced Food Packaging
Dairy Fermentations and Biotechnology A
Meat Science and Technology
Food Biopolymer Ingredients
Food Formulation and Design for Nutrition and Health
Food Factory Design, Utilities and Services
Microbial Food Safety
Sustainable Food Systems

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

7% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 29,412.00 USD 31,761.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,761.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,761.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,761.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 124,698.00 USD 127,047.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 777.00 - USD 1,595.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Cork Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAgricultural Marketing & SalesAgricultural Research & DevelopmentDrug Discovery & ResearchEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingLivestock & Animal HusbandryPharmaceutical ManufacturingPublic Health & Epidemiology

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc.

Cork University Hospital

Eli Lilly and Company

Health Service Executive

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine

Kerry

MSD Ireland

Mercy University Hospital

Why Study BSc (Hons) Food Science at University College Cork

What makes this program stand out

Moderate Application response time

University College Cork typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University College Cork in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc (Hons) Food Science at University College Cork

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks without a separate work permit. Full-time enrollment in a one-year program is necessary.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Institute of Food Science and Technology.

What English language score do I need for this course?

You need to meet specific English language requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with minimum score criteria.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Food Scientist, Quality Assurance Manager, Product Development Specialist, and Food Safety Officer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on the production and distribution of food, key food components, and emerging challenges like sustainability. You'll engage with science and technology to develop innovative food products that meet consumer demands.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc (Hons) Food Science program has an intake every September. Ensure you're prepared for this timeline to join the upcoming cohort.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️