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 Food Science at University College Dublin provides you with a robust understanding of the physical, chemical, and biochemical properties of food. This degree is ideal for aspiring professionals keen on ensuring the production of high-quality, safe, and nutritious food products. You will explore the intricate science behind food preservation, processing, packaging, and distribution, developing the technical expertise to innovate within the food industry. This undergraduate programme equips you with foundational knowledge essential for addressing contemporary food challenges.

You will study this full-time, on-campus programme over four years, immersing yourself in core modules covering food physics, macronutrients, sensory analysis, and microbiology, alongside essential chemistry and mathematics. Practical application is key, with opportunities for professional work experience and a significant final-year project. You will graduate with the skills to pursue diverse career paths in food manufacturing, quality assurance, product development, and regulatory affairs, prepared to contribute to a vital global sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Food Science program provides a comprehensive understanding of food from scientific, nutritional, and business perspectives. Students will explore core principles in chemistry, biology, and physics, alongside specialized topics such as food microbiology, sensory analysis, and food process technology. The curriculum also incorporates essential skills in biostatistics, scientific writing, and professional development, with opportunities for electives in areas like public health nutrition and food entrepreneurship.

1 Stage 1 Core Modules

Introductory Chemistry Compulsory
Mathematics for Agriculture I Compulsory
Physics for Ag. Science Compulsory
Information Skills Compulsory
Introduction to Agricultural Economics and Business Compulsory
Food Diet and Health Compulsory
Animal Biology and Evolution Compulsory
Cell and Plant Biology Compulsory
Introduction to the Chemistry of Biomolecules Compulsory
Mathematics for Agriculture II Compulsory
Aspects of Physics for Ag. Sci Compulsory

2 Stage 1 Options - A)MIN0OF:Choose your electives from any available modules across UCD or, if you prefer something related to Food Science these modules are available:

Introduction to Crop Science Elective
Plants and People Elective

3 Stage 2 Core Modules

Food Physics Compulsory
Food Macronutrients Compulsory
Sensory Analysis Compulsory
Applied Biostatistics Compulsory
Human Nutrition I - Understanding Nutrients Compulsory
Agricultural Microbiology Compulsory
Genetics and Biotechnology Compulsory
Nutritional Energy Metabolism Compulsory
Basic Food Analysis Compulsory
Health, Welfare & Safety in Agriculture Compulsory

4 Stage 2 Options - A)MIN0OF:Choose your electives from any available modules across UCD or, if you prefer something related to Food Science these modules are available:

Food Diet and Health II - Making Healthy Food Choices Elective
Introduction to Human Eating Behaviour Elective
Physiology for Nutrition Elective

5 Stage 3 Core Modules

Professional Work Experience Compulsory
Bioprocess Engineering Principles Compulsory
Food Microbiology Compulsory
Food Analysis I Compulsory
Food Chemistry I Compulsory
Product Development Compulsory
Scientific Writing and Review Compulsory
Food Chemistry II Compulsory
Plant-based Foods & Ingredients Compulsory
Human Nutrition II - Nutrients in Life Stages Compulsory

6 Stage 3 Options - A)MIN0OF:Choose your elective from any available modules across UCD or, if you prefer something Food Science related this module is available:

Climate Change and Agriculture Elective
Food Poverty and Policy Elective

7 Stage 4 Core Modules

Food Chain Integrity Compulsory
Food Process Technology I Compulsory
Fresh&Processed Meat Products Compulsory
Milk and Dairy Products Compulsory
Risk Analysis in Food Safety Compulsory
Fermented Foods Compulsory
Food Ingredients Compulsory
Food Process Technology II Compulsory

8 Stage 4 Options - A)1OF:Select one of the following:

Public Health Nutrition - Food Science Elective
Nutrition & Communication - Food Science Elective

9 Stage 4 Options - B)MIN1OF:Select a total of 10 credits:

Project Elective
Food Sector Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development Elective
Design Thinking for Food Packaging Elective

10 Stage 4 Options - C)MIN0OF:Choose your electives from any available modules across UCD or, if you prefer something Food Science related this module is available:

Food Regulation Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,232.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,232.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,232.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,232.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 136,929.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 349.00 - USD 849.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfield campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

99%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationCorporate Training & DevelopmentCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningFisheries & AquacultureForestry & LoggingRetail & GrocerySecondary & High School Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

PepsiCo

Teagasc

University College Dublin

Why Study Food Science at University College Dublin

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University College Dublin 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 Food Science at University College Dublin

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during breaks. No separate work permit is needed as long as students are studying full-time in a qualifying program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, international students must meet specific English language requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE with varying minimum scores across listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as Food Scientists, Quality Assurance Specialists, Nutritionists, Food Technologists, or Research and Development Managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BSc Food Science Programme provides foundational knowledge in the physical, chemical, and biochemical nature of foods. Students learn to apply this knowledge for producing safe and nutritious foods through various preservation and processing methods.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc Food Science Programme has an intake in September. Make sure to apply before this month to secure your spot.
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