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Food Science develops your scientific knowledge of how to produce high- quality, safe and nutritious foods for the global market. As a food scientist, you will have a role to play in all aspects of the food chain, from production at farm level to the retailer and to the consumer.
For more information regarding this course, please click School of Agriculture and Food Science
Here from academic staff and graduates on why this programme is for you.
First year focuses on the core sciences of biology and chemistry. There is also an Introduction to Food, Diet & Health module to give a flavour of later stages of your degree.
The final year focuses on the technology and chemistry of meat, dairy and fermented foods. Food safety and marketing are important aspects of the course. You will also have an opportunity to undertake a research project.
The course involves attending lectures and completing laboratory practicals and sessions to give first-hand experience of operating food processing equipment. There are also many opportunities to work on team-based assignments.
Assessment involves end-of-term written exams and a variety of continuous assessments designed to develop skills for success, including report writing, oral, poster and video presentations, and food formulation exercises.
The UCD Food Science programme is internationally accredited by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT). This award is granted to educational institutions that have food science programmes, which offer curricula and options that the IFT Higher Education Review Board has determined meet the IFT Undergraduate Education Standards for Degrees in Food Science.
Graduates have excellent employment prospects with national and international companies in:
- Production management
- Nutrition
- Food quality and safety
- Sales & marketing
- New product development and research
There are also excellent graduate study opportunities available.
Five months 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 Study Abroad Programme. Possibilities include:
- Michigan State University, USA
- Purdue University, USA
- Kansas State University, USA
- University of California, Davis, USA
- University of Queensland, Australia
- Cornell University, USA.