DURATION
One year full-time.

INTRODUCTION

The Applied Biology course is suitable for individuals who wish to enhance their chances for employment in the food / pharmaceutical or related industries. It is also suitable for those who may already be working in the food industry but wish to advance their technical knowledge and thus their promotion prospects.

Main areas of study may include:

• Nutrition
• Microbiology and Food Hygiene
• Chemistry/ Food Chemistry
• Biology
• Food Processing
• Laboratory Techniques
• Mathematics

SPECIAL FEATURES

The course has strong links with both food and pharmaceutical industries. Students visit various different industries and visiting
lecturers deliver a section of the course. The major emphasis for students is on the development of practical and laboratory skills.

WORK EXPERIENCE

One day a week in the food or health care related industry.

CAREER PROSPECTS

The food industry is Ireland’s largest employer and possesses a great potential for growth. Students of this course have a very high placement rate in either employment or third level colleges. Careers have included laboratory assistants and operators in food and pharmaceutical industries; supervisor/manager in food retail outlets; worker/supervisor in food preparation and small food business operators.

FURTHER EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

This course is part of the "Links Scheme" for entry into third level colleges. Students thus gain entry to these linked courses based on their FETAC rather than their Leaving Certificate results.

Institutes of Technology: Applied Biosciences, Applied Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Nutrition & Health Science
University: Food Science, Nutritional Science, Biol/Chem Sciences, Environmental Sciences.

Course participants are also eligible to apply to suitable courses in UK Universities.

FEES
Exam Fees – FETAC Level 5: €60
Exam Fees – First Aid: €15
Exam Fees – EHOA Primary Cert in Food Hygiene: €40
Department of Education and Skills Fee: €200
Student Services: €220
Total: €535

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Leaving Certificate standard or equivalent. All candidates are interviewed and places are awarded based on suitability. Mature students are also eligible to apply.

CERTIFICATION

• FETAC Level 5 in Food Science (FETAC award code: CASFX).
• Occupational First Aid
• Environmental Health Office certificate in primary food hygiene.

COURSE DIRECTOR

Mary Grufferty