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MEngSc in Food Engineering  (X082)

MEngSc (NFQ Level 9) · Academic Year 2024/2025
School
School of Biosystems and Food Engineering
Attendance
Full Time
Level
Graduate Taught
NFQ Level
9
Award
Master of Engineering Science
Mode of Delivery
On Campus
Programme Director
Professor Enda Cummins
Overall Programme Credits:
90
Programme Credits:
Stage 1
Core/Option: 90 Electives: 0
Major/Minor Core & Option Credits:
Stage 1: 90

Curricular information is subject to change.

For more information on this programme, see: MEngSc Food Engineering .

This programme is delivered by a highly research-intensive School comprising a European Research Council Fellow and six Marie Curie Fellowships. Professors Sun, Bourke and O’Donnell are in the world’s top one per cent of the most cited scientists in their field. Opportunities for site visits and industry internships are provided where possible. The UCD School of Biosystems & Food Engineering consistently wins up to €3 million in annual research funding.

Module Information:

Under the "What modules can I take?" section below you will see general module information, for a more detailed description including module selection rules click here.

This programme is aimed at engineering, science and technology graduates who wish to develop their knowledge of the scientific and technological aspects of food manufacturing and processing and advance their careers as engineers, technologists or managers in the food and beverage industries. We value independent, critical thinking and leadership with a focus on numeracy, technology and design. We create a dynamic learning environment where all students can work individually and in teams, with a strong link to our internationally recognised research-active staff, ensuring a practical and contemporary learning experience. Lectures, practicals and problem-based learning are at the heart of the programme experience. There is a focus on ICT, food manufacturing and bioprocess technology. We use a broad range of assessments including examinations, reports, projects, group work, case studies and peer evaluation. The programme results in a MEngSc in Food Engineering leading to career opportunities in the food, bioprocess, manufacturing and related industries.


1 - Knowledge and understanding of the scientific principles underpinning technology for safe and sustainable food production and processing
2 - Knowledge and understanding of traditional and novel food processing technology and automation
3 -
4 - Knowledge and understanding of waste and energy implications for food manufacturing systems
5 - Skills to understand and assess the full range of health & safety issues associated with work
6 - Skills to carry out an evaluation of the risks for the production of safe food
7 - Skills to devise scientific research hypothesis, carry out course of research investigation, apply appropriate measurement techniques, statistical analysis and interpret findings
8 - The ability to communicate effectively to professional and non-scientific community
9 - Understand the need for high ethical standards and professionalism
10 - Develop the ability to direct personal learning and to engage in lifelong learning

UCD is Ireland’s Global University and its largest university with a track record in empowering students to enter a diverse range of careers that reflects the most diverse curriculum on the Island of Ireland. Consistently, over 90% of graduates are employed or in further study or training 9 months following course completion. The QS World Ranking on Graduate Employability has placed UCD at number 1 in Ireland for Graduate Employability since 2018. On the global stage UCD leads the Irish higher education sector and is the only Irish university to be ranked inside the world’s top 80 for Graduate Employability.

At University College Dublin we are aware that for many students, programme outcomes in terms of graduate jobs and career options is important. The purpose of this statement is to help you understand and appreciate the range of skills you may develop during your time at UCD and how you may develop your employability. Visit the UCD Careers Networks website and MyCareer, the UCD Career management Platform, to access career information, internships and graduate roles as well as information about the range of initiatives, supports and events available to you.

This programme supports students’ career development and employability through:
  • Career development initiatives with UCD Careers Network
  • Development of critical thinking, problem solving skills and decision-making e.g. through individual and group projects and assignments


The manufacture of food and drink products is Ireland’s most important indigenous industry with a turnover of €27.5 billion. Almost 50,000 people are directly employed in the food and drink sector with a further 60,000 employed indirectly in all regions of the country. The value of food and drink exports is €12 billion per annum. Excellent job prospects are available to graduates in the food, bioprocess, 
manufacturing and related agencies and industries in Ireland. Graduates have progressed to career opportunities in a broad range of internationally recognised companies including: ALcontrol Laboratories, APV, Coca Cola, Dairygold, Glanbia, Guinness, Kepac, and Kerry Group.

Stage 1

X082 MEngSc Food Engineering FT is a 1-year 90-credit full- time Masters Programme.

Below is a list of all modules offered for this degree in the current academic year. Click on the module to discover what you will learn in the module, how you will learn and assessment feedback profile amongst other information.

Incoming Stage 1 undergraduates can usually select an Elective in the Spring Trimester. Most continuing undergraduate students can select up to two Elective modules (10 Credits) per stage. There is also the possibility to take up to 10 extra Elective credits.


See the UCD Assessment website for further details

Module Weighting Info