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Course Overview

This science-based programme will equip learners with skills in diverse areas such as new product development, food safety, HACCP and allergen management, as well as Lean Six Sigma, food formulations and leading manufacturing process technologies, employed in the Irish food industry. 

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 1 -2 Saturdays a month. Attendance will also be required at two laboratory sessions involving equipment touch time in a simulated manufacturing environment.

Accreditation: QQI Level 8 Higher Diploma in Food Science and Technology 

Collaborating University: Technical University Dublin - Tallaght Campus

Next Intake: February 2025. Now accepting applications. 

 

Food Students

Course Outline

The course duration is 11 months. Lectures will be delivered 2 evenings per week online.This 3-semester course involves a unique delivery of online lectures two evenings per week and 1 -2 Saturdays a month. Attendance will also be required at two laboratory sessions involving equipment touch time in a simulated manufacturing environment.g. (ECTS: 70 Credits) 

Module 1: 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 2: 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 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: 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 5: Lean Six Sigma

This module focuses on methodologies and tools for enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness in a food manufacturing setting, covering lean thinking, six sigma, process mapping, root cause analysis, creative solutions, CAPA, data visualisation, presentation skills and effective decision making.

Module 6: Industrial Statistics 

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

Module 7: 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 8: Food Quality Systems and Regulatory Control

Develop the knowledge and skills required to operate to a BRCGS Food Safety standard, the most widely accepted food safety standard in the world.

Module 9: Preparation for Work

This module equips students with the essential skills and knowledge for navigating the workforce, covering topics such as career development, CV and cover letter writing, interview preparation and techniques, networking strategies, and professional etiquette, empowering students to confidently navigate the job market and secure employment in their chosen field.

Students

Entry Requirements

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.

NFQ Levels Explained


 

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 Roles – Research Scientists and Technician, Food Product Developer, Sensory Evaluation, Natural Product Researcher, Sensory Analyst  
  • Technology Roles – Tech Development Manager, Technical Sales, New Technology Introduction
  • Regulatory Affairs Roles - Compliance Manager, Documentation Supervisor, Food Regulatory Affairs Specialist
  • Engineering/Manufacturing Roles – Production Operations, Process Technicians, Production Supervisor/Manager 
  • Supply Chain Roles – Warehouse Manager, Warehouse Supervisor, Stock Control, Planning
  • Culinary Roles - Culinary Science, Culinary Arts

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.

Apply Now

Our admissions team are on hand to assist you with your application and answer any questions you may have on the course.

Students who wish to apply to this course should follow the following application process.

 

Step 1: Enquire through the form at the top right of this page

Step 2: A member of our team will be in contact through phone or email

Step 3: If you are deemed to be eligible for the course, you will be sent an application form by email. You MUST fill in this application form and attach all necessary *documents (CV, ID, Transcripts, etc.)

Step 4: On submission of the completed application form and all documentation, your application will be sent to the associated department for final approval. You will receive an e-mail confirming your place on the programme. (Note: This process can take up to one week particularly during busy admission periods.)

*We accept scanned documents in a pdf format. Pictures of documents are not accepted.

**For those who are applying for Springboard or HCI funding, you will be directed to fill out an additional application form on the Springboard website, this is to confirm your eligibility to receive  funding

Please note at any time if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us by email on admissions@innopharmalabs.com or call us (01) 485 334

 

Why up-skill for the Food Science industry in Ireland?

  • Over 160,000 employed
  • €27.5 billion in turnover
  • Our largest indigenous sector
  • €13 billion in exports
  • Over 23,000 new jobs predicted by 2027
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Testimonials

Testimonials

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I would recommend Innopharma to someone who wants to get into the Irish Food Industry because it is very industry specific, it is very comprehensive and in terms of the commitment you got to put in, it's flexible and there is a good network there and you're going with the professionals. 

Norman O'Leary, Higher Diploma in Food Science & Technology Graduate

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