The MSc Food Business Strategy at University College Dublin (UCD) develops advanced skills in strategy, markets, and policy for the global food and agribusiness sector. Delivered full-time on campus, the programme combines business training with sector expertise to prepare graduates for leadership and analytical roles.
Duration: 1 year (full-time)
Credits: Typically 90 ECTS (confirm on the official programme page)
Delivery: On campus (UCD)
Programme type: Master of Science (MSc)
Language of instruction: English
Tuition fees (indicative):
- International: EUR 22,730 per year
- EU/EEA: EUR 16,150 per year
Application: Submit via UCD’s postgraduate application process (deadlines vary by intake)
Intake: Typically September (confirm for your year of entry)
Co-developed by: UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School and UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science
Programme Structure
Format
- Full-time study over one academic year
- Combination of core modules and elective content (module availability may vary by intake)
Core learning areas (indicative)
- Economics of Food Markets and Business Behaviour
- Supply Chain Management in Global Food Systems
- Customer-Focused Food Strategy
- Food Policy and Industry Responses
- Competitive Strategy in Global Food and Agribusiness Markets
- Innovation for Food Business
- Future of Food
- Entrepreneurship
- Leadership, Organisations & Management
Assessment
- Typically a mix of written assignments, case-based work, and examinations (exact assessment methods vary by module)
Capstone / final work
- Students complete programme assessments required for the MSc award (confirm the final project/thesis format on the official module list)
Academic requirements
Minimum academic standard
English requirements
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Other requirements
General requirements
- A minimum second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Agricultural Science, Science, Business, Commerce, Business Administration, Economics, or a related discipline; or
- An honours Graduate Diploma in Business Studies or a related subject; or
- A primary degree plus at least three years of relevant work experience.
Supporting documents (typical)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- English test results (if required)
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Statement of purpose/personal statement (if requested)
- Letters of recommendation (if requested)
Note: Exact document requirements and deadlines can vary by intake—check UCD’s postgraduate application guidance for the year you plan to apply.
Post-study work rights (Ireland)
After completing your MSc at University College Dublin, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission in Ireland, subject to meeting the relevant conditions set by the Irish immigration authorities.
- Eligibility: You must have successfully completed your programme and hold the appropriate immigration permission at the time of application.
- Duration: The post-study work permission length depends on the level and duration of your qualification and the rules in place at the time you apply.
- Work conditions: You may be allowed to work without needing a separate employment permit for the permitted period, subject to the conditions of your permission.
- Application timing: You must apply within the required timeframe after graduation (deadlines are set by the immigration authority).
Important: Immigration rules can change. Always verify the latest requirements on the official Irish immigration website or consult UCD International Student Support for guidance specific to your situation.