| Code | MFSTFS |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Year Full-time; 2 Years Part-time |
| Teaching Mode | Full-time, Part-Time. See Additional Teaching Mode Information for more info. |
| Qualifications | MSc |
| NFQ Level | Level 9 |
| Closing Date | We are now closed for applications for this course |
| Non-EU Closing Date | We are now closed for applications for this course |
| Start Date | 8 September 2025 |
Course Outline
The MSc (Food Science) is a full-time taught postgraduate programme running for 12 months from the date of first registration.
Course Requirements
Modules will be chosen with the approval of the Programme Board depending on the student's background.
Part I (60 credits total)
- PG6001 STEPS - Scientific Training for Enhanced Postgraduate Studies (5 credits)
- FS6101 Library Project in Food Science (10 credits)
- FS6103 Advances in Sustainable Food Processing Technologies (5 credits)
- FS6113 Food Protein and Lipid Biochemistry (5 credits)
- FS6120 Cheese and Fermented Dairy Products (5 credits)
- FS6114 Food Rheology and Structure (5 credits)
- FS4014 Food Product Development and Innovation (5 credits)
- MB4611 Microbial Food Safety (5 credits)
- MB6003 Functional Foods for Health (5 credits)
- FS4026 Food Factory Design, Utilities and Services (5 credits)
- FS6110 Food Analysis and Research Skills (5 credits)
Part II (30 credits)
- FS6102 Dissertation in Food Science (30 credits)
Additional Teaching Mode Information
The part-time option will be taught during weekday working hours over 2 years.
Academic Programme Catalogue
See the Academic Programme Catalogue where you can search for the complete and up-to-date content for this course. Note that the modules for all courses are subject to change from year to year. For complete descriptions of individual modules, see the Book of Modules.
Course Practicalities
Assessment
The taught modules of this course are assessed by examination in Winter, Spring and Summer. The research aspect is assessed on the quality of a substantial written dissertation.
Who teaches this course?
The course is taught by staff from the School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, the Department of Microbiology and the Department of Food Business and Development.
Why Choose This Course
UCC has a history of nearly a century of teaching and research in the food sciences and is amongst Europe’s largest multidisciplinary education and research institutions with world-class academics working in all aspects of the food area. Our first-rate facilities include extensive and well-equipped laboratories and a large pilot plant with excellent dairy, meat and bakery facilities in addition to a modern pilot-scale brewery.
Skills and Careers Information
On completing this course, you will be able to:
- conduct original research in food science
- demonstrate an understanding of scientific literature
- apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in food science
- explain the techniques used in food research, in both principle and practice
- communicate effectively with the food industry and with society at large
- show a comprehensive understanding of current food consumer and food industry trends
Requirements
Candidates must be holders of a minimum Second Class Honours Grade I in a primary BSc honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) or equivalent qualification, in a discipline with a significant element of laboratory science. However, candidates with equivalent academic qualifications may be accepted subject to the approval of College under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
For Applicants with Qualifications Completed Outside of Ireland
Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements. For more information see our Qualification Comparison page.
International/Non-EU Applicants
For full details of the non-EU application procedure visit our how to apply pages for international students.
- In UCC, we use the term programme and course interchangeably to describe what a person has registered to study in UCC and its constituent colleges, schools, and departments.
- Note that not all courses are open to international/non-EU applicants, please check the fact file above. For more information contact the International Office.
English Language Requirements
Applicants who are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements. Visit our PG English Language Requirements page for more information.
Fees and Costs
Postgraduate EU and International Fees 2025/2026
See our Postgraduate EU and Non-EU (International) Fee Schedule for the latest information.
Deposits
If your course requires a deposit, that figure will be deducted from your second-semester fee payment in January.
Fee payment
Fees are payable in two equal instalments. First payment is at registration and the balance usually by the end of January.
How can I pay?
See different options on our How Do I Pay My Fees? page.
Any questions? See the 'Contact Us' section on the Fees Office page.
How To Apply
1. Check dates
Check the opening and closing dates for the application process in the yellow fact file boxes at the top of this webpage. The UCC online application portal usually opens around mid October.
2. Gather documents
Scanned copies of supporting documents have to be uploaded to the UCC online application portal and include:
- Original qualification documents listed on your application, including transcripts of results from institutions other than UCC.
- Any supplementary items requested for your course, if required.
3. Apply online
Apply online by clicking the red 'Apply Now' button below. Note most of our courses have a non-refundable €50 application fee.
Any questions? Use our web enquiry form to contact us.
Additional Requirements (All Applicants)
Please note you will be required to provide additional information as part of the online application process for this programme. This will include the following questions:
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You may enter the details of professional or voluntary positions held. We strongly encourage you to complete this section with all relevant work experiences that will support your application.
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Please describe your motivation and readiness for this programme.
The closing date for non-EU applications is We are now closed for applications for this course
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