Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 4.16 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 13.4 k / Year(s) Deadline: Jan 15, 2026
200 place StudyQA ranking:5719 Duration:4 years

This MSc in Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition at Queen's University Belfast offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the critical factors that influence the safety, quality, and nutritional value of food products. The programme is designed to equip students with an in-depth knowledge of the scientific principles underlying food production, processing, and preservation, alongside the latest techniques in food safety management and nutritional analysis. Students will explore a broad range of topics including microbiology, food legislation, risk assessment, quality control systems, and nutritional sciences, preparing them for careers in the food industry, regulatory agencies, research institutions, and consultancy services.

Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on practical skills development, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques, food testing, and data analysis, which are essential for ensuring compliance with safety standards and improving product quality. The programme also covers current global issues such as food security, sustainability, and consumer health, fostering a holistic understanding of the challenges faced by the modern food sector. Industry speakers and real-world case studies are integrated into the curriculum to enhance learning and provide insights into current industry practices and regulatory frameworks.

Graduates of this MSc will have the ability to assess and manage risks associated with food production and to implement quality assurance protocols that meet international standards. They will be prepared for roles such as food safety officers, quality assurance managers, nutrition consultants, and researchers. The programme is suitable for graduates from science, technology, engineering, and health-related backgrounds seeking to specialise in the food sector, as well as industry professionals wishing to update their knowledge and skills. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, students will have the opportunity to engage in innovative projects that contribute to advancing food safety and nutrition science. Upon completion, graduates will be well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in improving the safety, quality, and nutritional quality of food products worldwide.

Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition at Queen’s University Belfast is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in the food industry. The programme provides in-depth knowledge of the scientific principles underpinning food safety, quality assurance, and nutrition. Students will explore various aspects of food production, processing, and regulation, equipping them with the skills necessary to ensure the safety and high standards of food products in a global market. The curriculum covers key topics such as microbiology, food chemistry, food processing technologies, and food legislation, alongside specialized modules in nutrition science and dietary health. Emphasizing practical learning, the programme includes laboratory work, industry placements, and project-based assessments that enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Through these activities, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technical skills that are highly valued by employers in the food sector. Additionally, the program fosters an understanding of emerging issues in food safety, including contamination prevention, crisis management, and the role of technology in safeguarding public health. Graduates of the Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in food manufacturing, quality assurance, regulatory bodies, and research institutions. They will be prepared to contribute effectively to the development, production, and regulation of safe, nutritious, and high-quality food products. Overall, this programme aims to produce skilled graduates who can meet the challenges of modern food production and contribute to the sustainable and safe supply of food worldwide.

Programme requirements for the MSc in Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition at Queen's University Belfast typically include a combination of academic qualifications, English language proficiency, and specific subject prerequisites. Applicants are usually expected to hold a good honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as food science, nutrition, biochemistry, microbiology, or a related discipline. For those whose first language is not English, evidence of English language proficiency is required, commonly through tests like IELTS with a minimum overall score of 6.0 to 6.5, including specific score requirements in individual components.

Applicants may also need to submit references, a personal statement detailing their interest and motivation for the programme, and sometimes relevant work experience in the food industry or related fields. The programme may assess applicants on their academic performance and/or professional experience, with some flexibility for applicants demonstrating potential through other qualifications or evidence of relevant skills. The selection process ensures that students have the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to undertake advanced study in areas related to food safety, microbiology, nutrition, and quality assurance.

Additional requirements could include submission of a CV or resume and, in certain cases, an interview or online assessment. The programme is designed to attract graduates from a variety of backgrounds, and therefore, specific entry requirements might be tailored to accommodate applicants from diverse educational and professional paths. Candidates should also have access to facilities, resources, and support relevant to the study of food quality and safety. All applicants are advised to check the official Queen’s University Belfast admissions webpage for the latest and most detailed entry criteria, as requirements can vary slightly from year to year and depend on the applicant's individual circumstances.


Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

  • ✔️ Flexible study schedule
  • ✔️ Experienced teachers
  • ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition programme at Queen's University Belfast offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore both domestic and international funding opportunities, including scholarships, grants, bursaries, and student loans. Queen's University Belfast provides a variety of scholarships specifically designated for students pursuing degrees in food science, nutrition, and related disciplines. These scholarships are often merit-based and may also consider financial need. In addition to university-specific awards, students can apply for external funding sources such as government bursaries, research grants, and industry-sponsored scholarships aimed at fostering future professionals in food safety and nutrition sectors.

For UK students, the Student Loans Company (SLC) offers maintenance loans and tuition fee loans that cover the cost of tuition and living expenses. International students may need to secure funding from their home countries or apply for scholarships that support international study. Queen's University Belfast also participates in the UK government’s postgraduate loan schemes, which can assist eligible students with tuition fees and living costs during master's programmes.

Part-time work opportunities and placement schemes offered through the university can provide additional financial support while gaining practical experience in the field. Some programmes also include optional paid internships or industry placements, which can help offset study costs. Students are advised to consult the university’s dedicated financial services and scholarships office for personalized guidance and application procedures.

In terms of cost estimations, tuition fees vary depending on the student’s residency status and the level of study. For undergraduate programmes, fees typically range in the region of £9,250 per year for UK students, with international students paying higher rates. For postgraduate taught programmes, the fees can vary from approximately £6,900 to £17,300 annually. These costs are subject to annual review and are indicative of current rates.

Overall, students enrolled in the Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition programme at Queen's University Belfast have access to a comprehensive suite of funding options designed to reduce financial barriers and support their academic and professional development. It is advisable for all applicants to review the university’s official financing guides, scholarship opportunities, and application deadlines early in the admissions process to ensure they maximize available financial aid.

The Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition programme at Queen's University Belfast offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and practices related to ensuring the safety, quality, and nutritional value of food products. This programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to address the complex challenges faced by the food industry today, including food safety legislation, quality assurance, product development, and nutrition standards. Throughout the course, students explore various aspects of food science, including microbiology, chemistry, and engineering, with an emphasis on real-world applications in food production and processing environments.

The curriculum includes modules such as food microbiology, food chemistry, food safety management systems, nutrition and health, quality assurance, and food legislation. Students also have opportunities to engage with research projects, practical laboratories, and industrial visits, providing a hands-on approach to learning. The programme prepares graduates for careers in food safety testing, quality assurance, research and development, regulatory affairs, and consultancy within the global food industry.

Queen's University Belfast is renowned for its research output and close links with industry partners, which enhance the learning experience by providing students with exposure to current industry standards and innovations. The programme also emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and consumer health, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to contribute to public health initiatives and the sustainable development of food systems. With a focus on both theoretical understanding and practical application, this degree fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an in-depth understanding of food science, nutrition, and safety standards.

Graduates of this programme are prepared to work in various sectors, including food manufacturing, quality assurance laboratories, government agencies, and international organizations involved in food safety and nutrition. Many students further enhance their career prospects through internships and placement opportunities integrated into the course. The international perspective of the programme also allows students to gain insights into global food safety issues and nutritional standards, making them competitive in the international job market. Overall, the Food Quality, Safety and Nutrition programme at Queen's University Belfast is an excellent choice for students passionate about ensuring the safety, quality, and healthfulness of food products worldwide.

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