MA Food and Drink Operations - Production and Processing Skills

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The food and drink manufacturing and processing (FDMP) industry in Scotland develops, manufactures, processes, packs and distributes food and drink products for sale in the UK and abroad.

Scotland’s food and drink sector is composed of many smaller businesses that rely on traditional or craft skills to create products of provenance.

People, skills, and innovation are vital to future growth and why they are key pillars of the Ambition 2030 Industry Strategy.

The Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) in Food and Drink Operations (Production and Processing Skills) at SCQF level 5 allows candidates to demonstrate competence in job-related skills in their particular area of work and expertise.

Upon successful completion, learners will gain an internationally recognised qualification which guarantees that they have the skills, knowledge, and abilities required to carry out their role successfully. Employers will also benefit from their employees being proficient.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course focuses on the essential skills required for effective food production and processing operations. Students will learn to maintain rigorous workplace food safety standards, operate machinery safely and efficiently, and prepare raw materials for manufacturing. The curriculum also covers quality control, hygiene practices, and the importance of sustainable operations within the food industry. Additionally, participants will develop skills in planning and organizing work, reporting production information, and optimizing work areas for enhanced efficiency.

1 Maintaining Workplace Food Safety Standards in Manufacture

2 Working Safely in Food Manufacture

3 Controling Washing and Drying Machinery

4 Selecting and Prepare Raw Materials

5 Reporting and Record Production Information

6 Carrying out Hygiene Cleaning

7 Contributing to Sustainable Practice in a Food Environment

8 Maintaining Product Quality

9 Preparing Tools and Equipment for Use

10 Planning and Organising Your Own Work Activities in a Food Business

11 Contributing to Optimising Work Areas

12 Lifting and Handling Materials in Food Manufacturing

13 Producing Product Packs

14 Operating Central Control Systems

15 Enhancements

16 Core skills

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,034.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 27,034.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,186.00 - USD 2,943.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on SRUC Elmwood.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Marketing & SalesBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesCorporate Finance & TreasuryDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEnvironmental & Sustainability ConsultingForestry & LoggingMental Health & CounselingTax & Legal ComplianceWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

Argyll Countryside Trust

SEVA

Why Study MA Food and Drink Operations - Production and Processing Skills at Scotland's Rural College (SRUC)

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) in United Kingdom

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 MA Food and Drink Operations - Production and Processing Skills at Scotland's Rural College (SRUC)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 10 hours per week during term time for diploma courses, or 20 hours for degree courses. Full-time work is allowed during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, accepted TOEFL scores include an overall score of 80, with specific minimum scores in each component. IELTS and PTE scores also meet the requirements, with overall scores of 6.0 and 59 respectively.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Production Operator, Quality Assurance Technician, Processing Supervisor, and Food Safety Officer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on the food and drink manufacturing and processing industry in Scotland, emphasizing traditional skills and innovation. Graduates gain an SVQ at SCQF level 5, showcasing their competence and enhancing employability.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Food and Drink Operations program starts in September each year. Be sure to prepare your application in advance to meet the deadlines.
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