Sustainable Food Systems (Hons) University College Dublin

Overview

Sustainable Food Systems (Hons) is offered by University College Dublin.  It will explore the complex challenge of sustainably producing food to meet the nutritional requirements of a growing world population while protecting the planet’s limited natural resources. 

Key Facts

Students will develop knowledge of food production systems, policy, principles, practices and technologies alongside developing their understanding of the three pillars of sustainability and the impacts on food production and consumption. Skills to analyse and evaluate sustainable food systems will be developed and how to apply knowledge learned to a practical real-world industry setting through engagement with peers, lectures, guest lectures and professional work experience. Whether interested in farming, food processing, human nutrition, or food policy, this course will provide students with the tools they need to make a real difference to the future of how we produce, distribute, and consume food in a sustainable way. A 16-weeks period of structured professional work experience takes place in third year. Assisted by a dedicated lecturer, students arrange this industry placements themselves. This placement may be taken abroad if a suitable placement can be secured. The industry placement is an excellent opportunity get new experiences, make industry contacts, and put theory from classes to practical use. Over the 4 years of the course students will study a range of modules which will develop skills in the basic sciences, food production, processing, packaging, food and agri-policy and the three pillars of sustainability (environment, economics and social). Students will also have opportunities to take option and elective modules.