Program Overview

Master of Science in Sustainable Food Safety Management

Overview

The MSc in Sustainable Food Safety Management is a comprehensive, knowledge-intensive programme that provides an in-depth exploration of national and EU regulations ensuring food safety and consumer health. This interdisciplinary course not only offers a thorough understanding of current food safety practices but also critically analyses upcoming changes and challenges in food regulation and food sustainability.

Programme Details

TU Code

TU236

NFQ Level

Level 9

Award Type

Major

Award

Master of Science

ECTS Credits

90

Duration

1 Year

Course Type

Postgraduate

Mode of Study

Full Time

Method of Delivery

Blended

Commencement Date

September 2025

Location

Grangegorman

Fees

€9,500 Total Fee (EU), €14,500 Total Fee (Non-EU)

Programme Structure

The programme is divided into three main stages of learning:

Stage 1. Course Lecture Programme

• Food Hazards – Chemical/Physical
• Food Hazards - Microbiological
• Research Methodology
• Safety Aspects of Primary Production
• Food Processing and Allergen Management
• Food Industry Sustainability
• Food Law
• Food Safety and the Consumer
• Food Safety Management Systems
• Risk Analysis and Data Analytics
• HACCP and Auditing

2. The Integrated Food Safety Management Case Study and International Tour

• Students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge to real-life situations through an Integrated Food Safety Management Case Study (ICS).

3. Completion of the Sustainable Food Safety Management Dissertation

• For MSc students, this stage involves undertaking a research project in a relevant area.

Admission Requirements

• Candidates must possess an undergraduate degree or equivalent (minimum NFQ Level 8 honours degree with a 2.2 award or higher) in a discipline related to Sustainable Food Safety Management.
• Appropriate fields include food science, food technology, food engineering, veterinary science, law, biotechnology, microbiology, environmental health, or a related field.
• Individuals who already hold an MSc in another discipline and wish to specialize in sustainable Food Safety Management are encouraged to apply.
• While significant work experience is preferred, we welcome applicants who demonstrate strong potential and a keen interest in food safety management, even if they have limited experience.
• Admission is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place. Selection is based on academic credentials and potentially relevant work/life experience. Interviews may be conducted if necessary.
• If English is not your first language you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency as detailed on our website. Applicants for this course should have a minimum IELTS (Academic Version) English Proficiency score of 6.0 overall (or an equivalent qualification), with no individual component scoring less than 6.0.

Assessment Methods

• The evaluation process is designed around continuous assessment methods, encompassing assignments, projects, and active class participation.
• The program emphasizes practical application with an Integrated Food Safety Management Case Study and an International Study Tour.
• MSc students complete a dissertation, engage in group projects, and deliver presentations, with no closed book invigilated exams.

Career Prospects

• Graduates of this program are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various roles within the food industry, regulatory agencies, and related fields.
• Potential job prospects include Environmental Health Officer, Food Safety Consultant, Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Quality Assurance Manager, Laboratory Analyst, Researcher or Academic, Food Industry Management, Public Health Officer, and Food Safety Inspector.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is work experience mandatory for admission to this programme?
  • While significant work experience is preferred, we welcome applicants who demonstrate strong potential and a keen interest in food safety management, even if they have limited experience.
• How competitive is the admission process?
  • Admission is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place. Selection is based on academic credentials and potentially relevant work/life experience. Interviews may be conducted if necessary.
• Are there any field trips involved in the programme?
  • Yes, the program may include occasional field trips, and some of these trips may require foreign travel. However, these are not frequent and occur as needed.
• What is the award upon completing the programme?
  • Graduates of the course are eligible for the award of an MSc in Sustainable Food Safety Management.
• Can graduates of the MSc in Sustainable Food Safety Management program secure a visa for job experience in the Irish food industry after completing the programme?
  • After completing the program, you may be eligible for a 1G visa in Ireland, which allows you to secure job experience for 12 months and a further 12 months can be provided subject to conditions.
• How does the MSc in Sustainable Food Safety Management programme prepare graduates for careers in the food industry and related fields?
  • The job prospects after completing the MSc in Sustainable Food Safety Management program are quite promising. Graduates of this program are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various roles within the food industry, regulatory agencies, and related fields.