The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise is encouraging school leavers interested in food to consider courses at its Loughry Campus in Cookstown.
CAFRE said applications remain open through UCAS Clearing for degree programmes starting in September 2026. Direct applications are also available for study after GCSEs as an alternative to A-levels.
The college said Loughry Campus combines academic study with practical, industry-focused learning. Students have access to food processing facilities, specialist laboratories and teaching staff with industry experience, as well as links with food businesses.
DAERA said Northern Ireland’s food and drink industry generates about £7.3 billion in economic value, supports almost 109,000 jobs, and accounts for more than one-third of manufacturing sales in Northern Ireland.
CAFRE said availability through UCAS Clearing includes its full-time BSc Honours Degree in Food Innovation Management, with pathways in Technology and Nutrition, the newly validated BSc Honours Degree in Sustainable Agri-Food Management, and the Foundation Degree in Food Innovation and Technology.
The college is also offering Higher Level Apprenticeships in Food and Drink Manufacture for those seeking a work-based route. CAFRE said apprentices can gain recognised qualifications while developing practical skills in a working environment.
For GCSE school leavers, direct applications are available for full-time Level 3 Food Technology with pathways in Nutrition and Science. CAFRE said the courses cover links between food science, robotics and automation, technology, nutrition and health, while preparing students for employment or progression to higher education.