The Diploma in Food Manufacturing Management is a part-time, Level 7 qualification for professionals in the food and beverage sector. Funding of up to 40% may be available through Taste 4 Success Skillnet for eligible applicants.

Why Choose this Diploma?

This programme is designed for professionals working in the food and beverage manufacturing sector who want to take the next step in their career. Aimed at those in operational, supervisory, or leadership roles, as well as those preparing to step into such positions - this part-time, Level 7 qualification builds the skills, confidence, and strategic insight needed to lead effectively in a dynamic industry. 

Whether you're a team leader, department manager, or business owner, the programme is designed to help you:

• Build confidence and capability in managing people, processes, and performance
• Apply learning directly to your workplace, with assignments tailored to your role and organisation
• Engage with peers from across the sector, gaining insight from diverse experiences and backgrounds
• Learn from experts in food business, operations, marketing, compliance, and leadership
• Develop professionally through structured workshops, a personal development plan, and an in-company project

Delivered by the Food Industry Training Unit (FITU) at University College Cork, which has successfully supported thousands of professionals over the past 30 years. The residential format of the level 7 diploma fosters a strong learning community, while the blended delivery ensures flexibility for working participants.

No prior third-level qualification is required — just a commitment to learning and a desire to grow in your role.

Schedule & Delivery

The Diploma in Food Manufacturing Management is delivered in a blended format, combining in-person workshops, workplace-based learning, and online engagement. The structure is designed to support professionals who wish to balance study with full-time work while integrating their learning directly into their role.

Participants attend six residential workshops between September and April. Each workshop runs for two to three days and includes interactive sessions led by academic and industry experts. A study tour to a relevant food company is also included as part of the learning experience.

The programme emphasises applied learning. Each participant completes a series of assignments and an in-company project, tailored to their own workplace. There are no formal written examinations; assessment is based on practical application and reflection.

Graduates consistently highlight the value of peer interaction, cross-sector learning, and the opportunity to apply new skills immediately in their professional context.

Fees & Funding

The total cost of the programme is €7,900, payable in full (September) or in 2 instalments (September and December). The fee includes tuition and all course materials.

Places are limited to a maximum number of 24.

Funding Support

Taste 4 Success Skillnet funding of 40% may be available for employees of member companies and other eligible participants. 

Taste 4 Success Skillnet is co-funded by Skillnet Ireland and network companies. Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

How to Apply

During your online application you will be required to upload the following documents:

• Birth Cert or Passport
• Passport Photograph 
• Application Statement
• CV

Download the full guide for completing your online application here: DFMM Application Instructions

Enquiries

For further information about the Diploma in Food Manufacturing Management, or to discuss your application, please contact:

Dr Jill Haynes

Programme Manager

Food Industry Training Unit (FITU), School of Food & Nutritional Sciences, University College Cork.

e: J.Haynes@ucc.ie t: 021-4903000

Further information is also available on the Adult Continuing Education website.

Workshops & Modules