Program Overview
This micro-credential in cheese science provides an in-depth understanding of the principles, processes, and biochemistry involved in cheese manufacture and ripening. Participants will learn about milk pre-treatment, rennet gelation, starter cultures, ripening, and yield efficiency, with guest lectures from industry experts. The program is designed for industry personnel in dairy processing or those seeking to enter the field.
Program Outline
Outline:
- Module Goal: To provide participants with knowledge of the principles of the science of cheese manufacture and ripening in addition to covering yield efficiency, processed cheese, cheese as an ingredient and the acceleration and control of ripening.
- Module Content:
- Cheese as a product
- Dairy chemistry of relevance to cheese
- Milk pre-treatment
- Rennet gelation and syneresis
- Starters and acidification
- Cutting, cooking and whey drainage
- Curd treatment
- Ripening including its control and microbiology
- Metabolism of lactose, lactate and citrate
- Lipolysis
- Proteolysis
- Amino acid catabolism
- Acceleration and control of ripening
- Yield efficiency, processed cheese, cheese as an ingredient.
Assessment:
- Continuous Assessment - 100 marks
- Online multiple choice questionnaire - 30 marks
- Online open book - long question exam - 30 marks
- Submission of essay online - 40 marks
Other:
- This micro-credential was developed in conjunction with Teagasc – Ireland’s Agriculture and Food Development Authority to ensure industry ready skills, with guest lectures from Professor Tim Guinea – Moorepark Food Research Centre.
- On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
- Describe the influence of processing steps and ingredient selection on the characteristics of processed cheese
- Summarise the rennet coagulation of milk and the syneresis of rennet-induced milk gels
- Assess the effects of the preparation of milk for cheesemaking on the finished product
- Explain the functions of NaCl in cheese and the factors which affect salt uptake
- Relate the principal microbiological and biochemical events which occur in cheese during ripening of the properties of finished product
- Appraise the value of various strategies for increasing cheese yield
- Industry personnel working in dairy processing and related dairy activities or who wish to enter this industry.
University College Cork
Overview:
University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
Student Support:
UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.Library:
The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.Campus Life:
UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.Accommodation:
UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.International Office:
The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.Adult Continuing Education:
UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.Continuing Professional Development:
UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.Micro-credentials:
UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.Scholarships and Prizes:
UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.Transition-In Programme:
UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.Graduate Attributes:
UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.
Key Reasons to Study There:
World-class Education:
UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.Strong Academic Programs:
UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.Vibrant Campus Life:
UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.Beautiful Location:
UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.International Reputation:
UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.Academic Programs:
UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
- Business and Law
- Engineering and Science
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Education
- Music
Other:
- UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
- UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
- UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
- UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.