Dun Laoghaire Further Education Institute Food Science and Nutrition

Course Aim

This course is suitable for students who are interested in preparing for a career as a food scientist and/or further education in the food, science or agriculture sectors. A food scientist applies their knowledge of biology, chemistry and engineering to develop and improve foods and has a role to play in all aspects of the food chain from production to processing, storage and marketing.

As Ireland’s largest Indigenous sector, the Irish Food Industry employs over 54,000 people and 23,000 new jobs are anticipated in the food sector in the coming years, as specified in the Food Wise 2025 report. This sector needs highly qualified graduates with a clear understanding of food, nutrition, sustainabilities, health and their interrelationships. Students throughout the year on this course, will have the opportunity to meet scientists, researchers, and postgraduate students in a vast array of scientific fields.  This generally takes the format of talks, workshops, and field trips.

Course Content

Laboratory Skills
Microbiology
Biology
Chemistry
Nutrition
Fruit and Vegetable Production
Mathematics
Communications
Work Experience

Requirements

One of the following:

• Leaving Certificate (LC Established, LCVP, LCA) or equivalent
• A Full QQI Level 4 Award (or equivalent)
• For Mature applicants (aged 21 or over) – appropriate experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications