Course Summary
At the end of the programme, graduates will have a thorough understanding of the theory and best practice relating to Food and Drink sector regulatory structures and proceduresand will be able to apply independent thinking and research skills in workplace decisions regarding relevant food and drink regulatory frameworks.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
A Level 8 Degree or Level 9 in other areas with sufficient work experience as assessed by ATU. Applicants with other qualifications and with relevant work experience may also be considered through ATU Sligo’s Recognition Prior Learning (RPL) process.
Application Details
Flexible learning courses are popular, and they fill on a first come, first served basis. There are two major intake periods throughout the academic year, September and January.
For January start courses, applications typically open in October, and for September start courses, applications typically open in February. Closing dates for applications are listed on the individual course webpage.
Start Date: September 2025.
Fees
Total Fees: €3500**. *Food and Drink Ireland Skillnet member rate - €2250. Fees may be subject to change.
**Fees quoted may be subject to change for academic year 2025/26. Please check programme web pages for confirmation of postgraduate fees.
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Naturalist
Not surprisingly, some aspect of the natural sciences will run through the Naturalist's interests - from ecological awareness to nutrition and health. People with an interest in horticulture, land usage and farming (including fish) are Naturalists.
Some Naturalists focus on animals rather than plants, and may enjoy working with, training, caring for, or simply herding them. Other Naturalists will prefer working with the end result of nature's produce - the food produced from plants and animals. Naturalists like solving problems with solutions that show some sensitivity to the environmental impact of what they do. They like to see practical results and prefer action to talking and discussing.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Career Progression
Many of our Masters programmes are structured in a way that includes recognised entry and exit awards. This means that you can apply for part of Masters first and learn at your own pace or if you are unable to complete the full programme, you can still gain a recognised qualification. Our entry and exit awards typically include Postgraduate Certificate award and a Postgraduate Diploma award.
Duration
Study Hours
Students can expect to allow for 7 hours per week, consisting of 2 hours evening lectures and 5 hours independent learning and project work.
On-Campus Attendance
Pre-dominantly live online lectures, supported by face-to-face seminars and self-directed learning.