Food Science & Technology

This is an ideal upskilling programme for industry employees to advance their careers to the next level and also those seeking to enter the dynamic food sector. The programme is also an ideal choice for food technologists, culinary professionals and entrepreneurs, equipping them with the necessary skills to take their product concepts to the marketplace.

This 3-semester course involves a unique delivery of online lectures two evenings per week and two Saturdays a month which involves tutorials and equipment touch time in a simulated manufacturing environment.

COURSE OUTLINE

The course duration is 12 months. Lectures will be delivered 2 evenings per week online. Students will also be required to attend 2 Saturday's a month on campus. Practicals will be in one of our pilot facilities, with dates and times subject to scheduling. (ECTS: 70 Credits)

Module 1: Food Processing Operations

An in-depth understanding of food processing operations employed in the manufacture and packaging of foods & beverages and their effects on finished product quality.

Module 2: Lean Six Sigma

Lean thinking; six sigma; project planning; process mapping; root cause analysis; creative solutions; corrective action preventative action; statistics; data visualisation; presentation skills; effective decision making

Module 3: Food Formulations

Understanding the behaviours and nutritional values of food materials with a focus on the function and application of these ingredients in food products. Food ingredients of most commercial value in the current markets will be examined.

Module 4: HACCP, Allergens & Contamination Controls

Development of the skills required to: operate in a HACCP controlled facility & understand food safety management systems which control food safety hazards and food allergens.

Module 6: Food Product Innovation and Development

The knowledge and skills required to work as part of a new product development team through the complete innovation process from idea concept to successful product launch.

Module 7: Industrial Statistics

The use of statistical tools in designing experiments, evaluating process performance, predicting responses and communicating findings within the Food Science sector.

Module 8: Process Control and PAT

The principles of process control and how Process Analytical Technology (PAT) can assist with process understanding and enhance process control.

Module 9: Food Quality Systems and Regulatory Control

The knowledge and skills required to operate to a British Retail Consortium (BRC) accredited food quality management standard.

Module 10: Preparation for Work

The skills to prepare a winning CV and cover letter to match the necessary competencies and job descriptions for career progression. Development of the professional skills required to communicate and work in this growing industry as well as the skills to present effectively at an interview.

This course is suitable for those with a minimum qualification at Level 7 Ordinary Degree (180 credits) in Science, Engineering, Quality or a related discipline.

11 Months

The course duration is 12 months. Lectures will be delivered 2 evenings per week online. Students will also be required to attend 2 Saturday's a month on campus. Practicals will be in one of our pilot facilities, with dates and times subject to scheduling.

CAREER OPTIONS

With the continued growth of the Food Industry in Ireland, this course is suitable for those who wish to upskill to gain roles such as

Quality Roles - QC Manager, Quality Supervisor, Lab Technician,

Food Research and Development – Research Scientists and Technician, Food product Developer, Sensory Evaluation, Natural Product Researcher

Technology – Tech Development Manager, Technical Sales, New technology Introduction • Regulatory Affairs Roles - Compliance Manager, Documentation Supervisor

Engineering/Manufacturing – Project engineering, automation, maintenance, production operations, process technicians.

Supply Chain Roles – Warehouse Manager, Warehouse Supervisor, Stock Control, Planning

Academic Progression

On successful completion of this Level 8 Higher Diploma Program in Food Science & Technology, students can progress to a QQI Level 9 MSc in Food Business Management & Technology.