Program Overview

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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

2 Years

Course Type

Postgraduate

Mode of Study

Part Time

Method of Delivery

Blended

Commencement Date

September 2025

Location

Grangegorman

Fees

€4,750 Per Year
€9,500 Total Fee

Programme Structure

The MSc in Sustainable Food Safety Management is a comprehensive and integrated program designed to provide students with a holistic understanding of sustainable food safety management. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of various modules, each contributing to a well-rounded education in the field. The program comprises three main stages of learning:

Stage 1: Course Lecture Programme

In this stage, students will explore the fundamental aspects of food safety management. The courses in this stage are divided into three key themes:

• A. Food Safety Hazards (Year 1)
  • TFFH9001: Food Hazards – Chemical/Physical
  • TFFH9002: Food Hazards - Microbiological
  • TFFH9003: Research Methodology
• B. Management of Food Safety (Year 1)
  • TFSM9010: Food Safety Management Systems
  • TFSM9011: Risk Analysis and Data Analytics
  • TFSM9012: HACCP and Auditing
• C. Safety and Sustainability in Food Production (Year 2)
  • TFFP9004: Safety Aspects of Primary Production
  • TFFP9005: Food Processing and Allergen Management
  • TFFP9006: Food Industry Sustainability
• D. Food Law, Consumer Behaviour and the Media (Year 2)
  • TFFL9007: Food Law
  • TFFL9008: Food Safety and the Consumer
  • TFFL9003: Research Methodology

Stage 2: The Integrated Food Safety Management Case Study and International Tour (Year 2)

In this stage, students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge to real-life situations through an Integrated Food Safety Management Case Study (ICS). They will conduct a food safety audit, develop control systems, and create a food safety management strategy. The ICS promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and interaction among students and experts. Additionally, an International Study Tour provides insights into international best practices in Food Safety Management.

Stage 3: Completion of the Sustainable Food Safety Management Dissertation (Year 1-2)

For MSc students, this stage involves undertaking a research project in a relevant area. The dissertation is a significant requirement, reflecting the student's research efforts. It showcases intellectual and imaginative development, problem-solving abilities, and initiative. The research project is supervised by academic staff with expertise in Sustainable Food Safety Management, and supervision may extend to other schools within TU Dublin as needed.

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.

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.

Module Listing

• Year One
  • Semester 1
    • Food Hazards - Microbiological [Mandatory]
    • Food Hazards – Physical/Chemical [Mandatory]
    • Food Industry Sustainability [Mandatory]
    • Food Processing and Allergen Management [Mandatory]
    • Food Safety Management Dissertation [Mandatory]
    • Research Methodology [Mandatory]
    • Safety Aspects of Primary Production [Mandatory]
  • Semester 2
    • Food Safety Management Dissertation [Mandatory]
    • Research Methodology [Mandatory]
    • Food Law [Mandatory]
    • Food Safety & the Consumer [Mandatory]
    • Integrated Food Safety Management Case Study & International Tour [Mandatory]
    • Food Safety Management Systems [Mandatory]
    • Risk Analysis and Data Analysis [Mandatory]
    • HACCP and Auditing [Mandatory]

Schedule

The programme is scheduled to run once a week, with in-class lectures taking place on different days for Year 1 and Year 2. In Year 1, classes will be held every Thursday, and in Year 2, they will occur every Wednesday, both running from 14:00 to 20:30. Additionally, for candidates who have made prior arrangements, such as those residing remotely, Hyflex delivery is available to accommodate their needs.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the course are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various roles within the food industry, regulatory agencies, and related fields. Some 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
• 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 course? After completing the course, 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.