Food Science or Sustainable Food Systems
BSc (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
Why is this course for me
Students are required to choose one of two exciting options when selecting DN261:
DN261: Sustainable Food Systems
The Food Science Programme at UCD develops your scientific knowledge and practical skills in producing sustainable, high-quality, safe, and nutritious food for the global market. As a food scientist, you will be involved in all aspects of the food chain, from production to the consumer. You will learn core sciences such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics, and apply them to food physics, analysis, microbiology, and sensory science. You will also gain expertise in food chemistry, processing, and new product development, preparing you for careers in production management, nutrition, food quality and safety, sales and marketing, and research.
With the programme’s international accreditation and opportunities for industry internships and study abroad, you will have a competitive edge in the job market and be well-equipped to pursue graduate study.
Sustainable Food Systems will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the entire food chain, from on farm production to human consumption and the scientific principles underpinning it. It will explore the complex challenge of sustainably producing food to meet the nutritional requirements of a growing world population while protecting the planet’s limited natural resources. Students will develop knowledge of food production systems, policy, principles, practices and technologies alongside developing their understanding of the three pillars of sustainability and the impacts on food production and consumption. Skills to analyse and evaluate sustainable food systems will be developed and how to apply knowledge learned to a practical real-world industry setting through engagement with peers, lectures, guest lectures and professional work experience. Whether interested in farming, food processing, human nutrition, or food policy, this course will provide students with the tools they need to make a real difference to the future of how we produce, distribute, and consume food in a sustainable way.
PWE in the food industry in third year is an integral part of the degree. Students are also encouraged to take a trimester abroad and participate on the Agriculture Study Abroad Programme.
Examples of some of the School’s international partners include:
- Michigan State University, USA
- Purdue University, USA
- Kansas State University, USA
- University of California, Davis, USA
- University of Queensland, Australia
- Cornell University, USA
Graduates have excellent employment prospects with national and international companies in a range of diverse roles across the agriculture, food and related industries.
You can find out more information on career opportunities by visiting the unique programme pages:
“Deciding to study Food Science at UCD was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I transferred into this course from another university after realising I wanted to pursue a career in the Irish food industry. The Food Science course in UCD teaches you to look at food from a range of different scientific perspectives, with modules covering chemistry, physics, microbiology and nutrition. You will also gain a more practical insight into the food industry with modules such as Food Processing Technology and Product Development. I would encourage anyone with a keen interest in where their food comes from, what it’s made of and how it ends up on their plate to consider this course.”
Anna Kerr, Student
“As Programme Director I am delighted to bring to you this novel and exciting new programme Sustainable Food Systems. Experts within the School of Agriculture and Food Science along with guidance from industry stakeholders have designed the curriculum to develop your understanding and skill sets of how to produce safe, nutritious, and high-value food while also protecting and enhancing our natural resources and contributing to the rural and national economy. Future graduates with such skill sets will be needed to navigate the sectors sustainability (environmental, economic and social) challenges and opportunities and for Ireland to become a global leader of innovation for sustainable food and agriculture systems. This programme is unique in Ireland to UCD and offers students the opportunity to engage with and learn from leading experts in their fields. Industry engagement, professional work experience and study abroad opportunities create even greater opportunities for students to gain experience within the Irish and international Agri-Food sector. If you are interested in how we produce food sustainably from on farm production and agri-food policy to food processing and human nutrition then this programme is for you.”
Dr Zoe McKay , Programme Directort
UCD Agriculture & Food Science School Office
Agriculture & Food Science Centre
Belfield, Dublin 4
