UCD’s Agricultural Science degree (DN250) offers you the flexibility to explore 11 distinct areas of specialisation, all designed to prepare you for a wide range of careers in the agri-food sector. In first year, all students follow a common curriculum focused on building a solid foundation in core sciences, mathematics and economics, essential for success in later years.
At the UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, we’re shaping the future of the agri-food sector by educating the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers and leaders. Our graduates are in high demand, forging rewarding careers across a wide variety of areas — from animal and crop science, agribusiness and sustainable farming, to forestry, horticulture, food science and human nutrition. Our courses span diverse and engaging subject areas, giving you the freedom to explore what you love and build a career that fits your goals, lifestyle, and ambitions.
Graduates of the School have gone on to shape policy, drive innovation and lead on the global stage. From an EU Commissioner and Member of the European Parliament to CEOs of Bord Bia and Tirlán, Teagasc Director, senior officials in government, and leaders of global agri-food companies, our graduates are proof of what’s possible when you start your journey at UCD.
See full list of Agriculture, Food & Nutrition courses below
Food Science (DN261) at UCD combines cutting-edge scientific knowledge with hands-on skills to help you understand how safe, high-quality and nutritious food is produced for global consumers. This internationally recognised course is accredited by the Institute of Food Technologists, ensuring strong global career prospects.
Sustainable Food Systems (DN261) offers a deep understanding of the entire food chain, from farm to fork, grounded in the science behind food production and nutrition. You’ll explore how to feed a growing global population sustainably, while tackling urgent challenges like climate change, resource conservation, and the protection of our natural environment.
UCD’s Human Nutrition course offers a broad education in nutritional science, covering everything from biochemistry and molecular nutrition to public health, communication and food regulation. You’ll develop a deep understanding of biological systems and how they relate to human nutrition, preparing you for a wide range of careers across the food, health, and wellness industries.
Why UCD Agriculture, Food & Nutrition?
UCD is Ireland’s top-ranked university for agricultural and food science and among the very best in the world. According to the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, the UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science is ranked 1st in Ireland, 4th in Europe, and 24th globally for Agricultural Sciences. Our Food Science and Technology courses are ranked 3rd in Europe and 15th worldwide.
What sets UCD apart is the breadth and depth of our courses, which span the entire food chain, from soil to society. This opens a world of exciting and diverse career opportunities, both in Ireland and internationally.
Our four-year honours degree courses blend cutting-edge research with real-world application. The flexible, modular structure of each course includes opportunities for hands-on learning through Professional Work Experience (PWE) and the chance to study abroad at partner universities in the USA, Australia, New Zealand and Europe. You’ll also build critical thinking, creativity, leadership and problemsolving skills that are highly valued by employers.
Professional Work Experience (PWE) & International Study Opportunities
PWE is a core part of your third year in all our courses and can be completed in Ireland or abroad. It’s a chance to gain hands-on experience, explore different roles, make industry connections, and sometimes even secure a job offer before graduation. You may also study abroad at one of UCD’s global partner universities, in the UK, Europe, the USA, Australia, and New Zealand.
Career & Graduate Study Opportunities
Graduates from our courses enjoy excellent career prospects across a wide range of sectors, including food, agriculture, forestry, horticulture, health, business and environmental services. You’ll develop the skills to succeed in areas such as enterprise management, consultancy, research, marketing, education, communications, and primary food production.
Many students also choose to continue their studies, with opportunities to pursue taught or research-based Master’s and PhD programmes in Ireland and internationally.
Studying Agricultural Science (DN250)
UCD’s Agricultural Science degree (DN250) offers you the flexibility to explore 11 distinct areas of specialisation, all designed to prepare you for a wide range of careers in the agri-food sector. In first year, all students follow a common curriculum focused on building a solid foundation in core sciences, mathematics and economics, essential for success in later years.
You’ll be able to specialise in one of the following courses:
• Agri-Environmental Sciences • Agricultural Systems Technology • Animal & Crop Production • Animal Science • Animal Science – Equine • Crop Science • Dairy Business • Food & Agribusiness Management • Food Business with Chinese Studies • Forestry • Horticulture
There are approximately 250 places available each year in DN250. If you’re interested in Agricultural Science but aren’t sure which area suits you best, you can apply under the ‘No Preference (NPF)’ option on your CAO form. During your first year, you’ll have the chance to explore different modules before choosing your specialisation in second year— and you’re guaranteed a place in any of the 11 courses.
Studying Food Science (DN261)
Food Science at UCD combines cutting-edge scientific knowledge with hands-on skills to help you understand how safe, high-quality and nutritious food is produced for global consumers. This internationally recognised course is accredited by the Institute of Food Technologists, ensuring strong global career prospects.
Studying Sustainable Food Systems (DN261)
This forward-looking course offers a deep understanding of the entire food chain, from farm to fork, grounded in the science behind food production and nutrition. You’ll explore how to feed a growing global population sustainably, while tackling urgent challenges like climate change, resource conservation, and the protection of our natural environment.
Studying Human Nutrition (DN262)
UCD’s Human Nutrition course offers a broad education in nutritional science, covering everything from biochemistry and molecular nutrition to public health, communication and food regulation. You’ll develop a deep understanding of biological systems and how they relate to human nutrition, preparing you for a wide range of careers across the food, health, and wellness industries.