Sustainable Food Systems

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 Sustainable Food Systems Bachelors Degree at University College Dublin is designed for students passionate about addressing the complex challenges of feeding a growing global population while safeguarding our planet. You will explore the fundamental sciences, food production, processing, and packaging, alongside critical food and agri-policy, and the interconnected pillars of environmental, economic, and social sustainability. This undergraduate programme equips you with a holistic understanding of the food system, preparing you to contribute to a more resilient and equitable future through informed decision-making and innovative solutions.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, you will engage with a diverse curriculum including modules on environmental data, the circular bioeconomy, and food poverty. Your learning experience will be enriched by opportunities for professional work experience and specialised electives in areas like precision agriculture and sustainable diets. You will develop practical skills in areas such as life cycle assessment and food chain integrity, culminating in a significant final-year Sustainable Food Systems Project. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for impactful careers in food policy, agricultural management, and sustainability consultancy.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program explores the multifaceted nature of sustainable food systems, from foundational scientific and economic principles to advanced policy and management strategies. Students will examine the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of food production, consumption, and distribution. The curriculum progresses through core subjects like agricultural economics, soil science, and animal biology, culminating in specialized topics such as life cycle assessment, food chain integrity, and the circular bioeconomy. This comprehensive approach prepares students to address complex challenges and drive innovation within the global food sector.

1 First Year

Introduction to Chemistry
Information Skills
Mathematics for Agriculture I
Introduction to Sustainability
Land Use and the Environment
Introduction to Agricultural Economics and Business
Animal Biology and Evolution
Plants and People
Introduction to Sustainable Food Systems
Introduction to Animal Science
Food Diet and Health II – Making Healthy Food Choices

2 Second Year

Applied Biostatistics
Food Systems – Industry
Social science, food culture and traditions
Soil Science Basics
Genetics and Biotechnology
Business Management
Principles of Crop Science
Sustainability Challenges and Solutions
Forests, Climate and Carbon
Health, Welfare & Safety in Agriculture
Sustainable Animal Production

3 Third Year

Environmental Data and Modelling
The Circular Bioeconomy
Knowledge Transfer for Farm Innovation
Food Poverty and Policy
Agri-Environmental Issues and Policy
Professional Work Experience
Agrichemicals and the Environment
Climate, Carbon and Soil
Scientific Writing and Review
Sustainable food packaging and waste management

4 Final Year

Life Cycle Assessment
Developments in Food Systems
Food Chain Integrity
Dairy and Meat Products
Precision Agriculture
Agri-Environmental Nutrient Management
One Health: Plants, Animals, Humans, Environment
Sustainability in the Human Diet
Sustainable Food Systems Project

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 ServicesAgrochemical & Seed IndustryCorporate & Commercial LawCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationFamily & Civil LawHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare ConsultingRegulatory Affairs & ComplianceSecondary & High School Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Bayer

Beacon Hospital Dublin

Children's Health Ireland

Department of Education and Youth

Dublin City University

Health Service Executive (HSE)

Medical Council Ireland

National Ambulance Service

Why Study Sustainable Food Systems 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 Sustainable Food Systems 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 during breaks. No work permit is needed as long as you are enrolled in a full-time program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English proficiency requirements include a Duolingo overall score of 120 or a minimum IELTS score of 6.5. Other accepted tests include TOEFL and PTE with specific score criteria.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Career opportunities include Food Scientist, Sustainability Consultant, Agricultural Manager, and Policy Advisor.

What will I actually study in this course?

Students will explore critical topics like food production and sustainability throughout the course. Additionally, there are options for elective modules to tailor your learning experience.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Sustainable Food Systems course intake is in September each year. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your place.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️