Food science is the multidisciplinary study of food ingredients and food products. Food scientists have a role in all aspects of the food chain from production at farm level to consumption. They use their scientific knowledge to ensure that the production, processing, preservation, evaluation, and distribution of food are efficient and safe.
This is a three year full time course is designed to train you in modern food processing methods, food safety management, analytical testing relevant to the food industry. The programme also incorporates a range of business skills to allow you have knowledge of the financial and management environment for the food industry.
At the outset there is a strong emphasis on the sciences such as biology, chemistry and physics to provide you with a good basis for the following years. In years 2 and 3 you will study specialist modules in food chemistry, processing, microbiology and quality management. You will also study modules in business, marketing and regulation giving you skills and knowledge to work in many sectors of the food industry.
In year 1 students study a module delivered in Kildalton Agricultural College by skilled Teagasc staff. Students are exposed to primary food production methods and gain a good understanding of quality food production on the farm.
In year 3 students complete an industrial placement to allow learners to apply and develop their skills in the food industry.
A twelve week industrial placement in the food industry occurs in the third year of the course. This is supported by our food industry partners and is seen as critical to the overall learning experience and development of the students. The industrial placement will be organised by WIT staff and monitored by both the employer and WIT staff, with the student keeping a reflective work log. Work placement can be organised for Ireland or abroad.
The Industrial Placement will allow learners to apply and develop their skills in the food industry. The placement is designed to meet the needs of industry whilst providing the student with a broader skills-base. It is envisaged that the practical element of employment will complement the course content and help develop skills that are essential in today’s work environment.
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
---|---|
Introductory Biology | Cell Biology and Biochemistry |
Introductory Chemistry | Physical and Organic Chemistry |
Introductory Physics | Physics for Scientists |
Introductory Mathematics | Mathematics for Scientists |
Introduction to ICT for Scientists | Introduction to Food Science |
Good Lab Practice & Core Skills | Primary Food Production |
Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
---|---|
Food Analysis | Food Microbiology |
Microbiology 1 | Food Process Technology |
Nutrition | Food Marketing and Regulation |
Laboratory Data Analysis & Presentation | Environmental Monitoring |
Accounting for Food Scientists | Bioanalytical Methods for the Food Industry |
Statistics for Scientists | The Professional Individual |
Semester 5 | Semester 6 |
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Placement | Food Formulation |
Food Safety Management Systems | |
Food Business | |
Food-borne Pathogens | |
Total Quality Management | |
Introduction to Research Methods |
5 subjects: O6/H7
English or Irish: O6/H7
Mathematics: O6/H7
Applicants should note that a science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics with Chemistry or Agricultural Science) at Leaving Certificate is recommended for this programme.
There are many career opportunities, for instance you could become a
• Quality Control supervisor
• Production manager
• Food product development scientist
• Sales and marketing representative
After completion of the programme you will be eligible to transfer into year 4 of the BSc (H) in Food Science and Innovation programme.