Sustainable Food Systems at University College Cork (UCC) is a part-time, blended programme for food-sector professionals who want to understand sustainability across the full food value chain. You’ll connect sustainability concepts to real workplace decisions in processing, packaging, nutrition, and innovation.
Duration: Part-time study (exact duration may vary by intake; confirm with UCC)
Credits: ECTS credits (confirm with UCC for the specific intake)
Delivery format: Blended learning (online learning plus scheduled structured sessions as required)
Language of instruction: English
Programme focus: Sustainability across the food value chain, including processing, packaging, preservation, consumer and nutrition-related considerations, and research/innovation
Tuition fees: Fees vary by applicant category and year—check the UCC programme website for the latest figures
Application route: Apply through the UCC programme portal
Start dates/intakes: Check the UCC programme website for the next available intake
Typical learner profile: Food and agrifood professionals seeking sustainability-focused upskilling while continuing to work
Programme Structure
The curriculum is organised around sustainability themes that reflect real challenges in the food sector. While module availability can vary by intake, the programme typically includes core modules such as:
- Sustainable Food Processing
- Sustainability and Food Consumer Behaviour
- Sustainable Food Packaging and Preservation
- Sustainability in Nutrition and Food Environments
- Sustainable Food Systems in Research and Innovation
Learning approach
- Blended delivery combining online learning with structured sessions to support discussion and applied learning
- Industry-relevant content and case-based activities linked to workplace decision-making
Assessment
- Assessment typically includes a mix of written assignments, case-based submissions, and/or module-based evaluations (exact formats and weighting are confirmed by UCC for each intake)
Capstone/thesis
- The programme is designed as a taught, part-time programme; a thesis/dissertation is not typically required (confirm with UCC for the specific intake).
Academic requirements
- A Second-Class Honours Grade 2 (Lower Second) in a primary honours degree (NFQ Level 8) in a relevant discipline such as food science, nutritional sciences, agricultural sciences, microbiology, biochemistry, food safety, food quality, new product development, engineering, or closely related biological sciences.
- Applicants who hold a UCC Diploma in Food Science and Technology (NFQ Level 7) may be considered if they have: a minimum Second-Class Honours Grade 1 and at least two years’ relevant technical experience in the food and beverage sector.
English language requirements (minimums)
- IELTS: 6.5 (overall)
- PTE Academic: 63
- Duolingo English Test: 120
- Oxford Test of English (OTE): 140
Supporting documents (typically)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- CV
- Evidence of relevant technical experience (where applicable)
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
- Application form and any additional documents requested by UCC
Deadlines and intake dates
- Application deadlines and start dates vary by year—check the UCC programme website for the most current information.
Check for any work restrictions
After completing your programme, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission in Ireland, provided you meet the Irish immigration rules that apply at the time of your application.
In general, eligibility depends on factors such as:
- Whether your programme is eligible for post-study work purposes
- Your level of study and the length of your programme
- Whether you have successfully completed all programme requirements and can provide evidence of completion
- Your immigration status when you apply
Post-study work permissions are granted for a limited period and may include conditions (for example, requirements related to employment and maintaining lawful residence). Immigration rules can change, so you should verify the latest guidance with the Irish immigration authorities and your university’s international student office.
For the most accurate information for your situation, consult the programme website and the University College Cork international student guidance pages.
