Program Overview

Food Science and Technology - Diploma - Dip

Course Fact File

Course Outline

The Diploma in Food Science and Technology is a part-time course over two years. The course gives you an understanding of food science, microbiology, food processing technology, nutrition and food business. It will allow you to upgrade your knowledge, skills and competencies. Particular emphasis is placed on linking basic principles with their practical application in industry.

• In year one you will take modules in Food Chemistry, Food Microbiology, Food Technology, Food Engineering and Nutrition.
• In year two you will take modules in Food Chemistry, Food Microbiology, Food Process Technology, Quality Systems and Food Business.
• You also complete an individual assignment each year designed to integrate and apply the knowledge and understanding acquired on the course to a chosen topic.

Year 1 Modules

• FC1800 Food Chemistry I
• FS1800 Food Microbiology I
• FT1800 Food Technology
• FN1800 Food Engineering
• NT1800 Nutrition
• FS1802 Work Related Assignment I

Year 2 Modules

• FC2800 Food Chemistry II
• FS2800 Food Microbiology II
• FT2800 Food Process Technology
• FS2801 Quality Systems
• FS2802 Food Business
• FS2803 Work Related Assignment II

Course Practicalities

This course takes place on the weekend with seminars from October to May.

Why Choose This Course

The Irish food and drinks sector is one of Ireland’s most important indigenous industries. It has been identified as having a key role to play in Ireland’s export-led economic recovery. This is the only Diploma in Food Science and Technology in Ireland that is offered on a part-time basis.

Requirements

• Applicants should hold NFQ/FETAC Level 5 qualification or have appropriate experience/qualifications in a food related area as deemed relevant by the Academic Director and Programme Manager.
• Applicants should have at least two years experience work.

For the attention of non-resident/overseas applicant:

Please note the course is delivered in a blended format. The sessions on the 7th/8th October; 17th/18th February and 31st March/1st April will be held on campus in UCC. The remaining sessions will be held online. Non-resident/overseas applicants will need to take travelling considerations into account before applying.

Diploma programmes are offered subject to a minimum number of eligible applicants registering for the programme. Following completion of year 1 of this programme, should a sufficient number of eligible students not wish to progress form year 1 to year 2 of this programme as to make the year 2 viable, students will graduate with a certificate at that point. Programme viability is determined by reference to fee income and applicable costs in running the programme.

Fees and Costs

The cost for Year 1 is €2800.

In Year 2, the cost will increase to €3450 in line with department-wide cost increases scheduled for Academic Year 2026/27.

Taste 4 Success Skillnet funding of 35% may be available for member companies and other eligible participants.