How to Apply

Bord Bia and Smurfit Executive Development at UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School no longer accepting applications for the MSc International Marketing Practice (Bord Bia Marketing Fellowship Programme). Applications for 2027 intake will open in spring 2026.

There are approximately 20-23 places available on this programme. Interested applicants must be available if selected to take part in the assessment process Autumn 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed) and if successful must be ready to commence the programme on a full-time basis spring 2027.

Programme Application Journey

1. Eligibility: Consider if you have a passion for, and wish to pursue a career with the Irish Food, Drink and Horticulture Industry. You should understand Bord Bia's mission and purpose. A minimum 2:1 degree with 2 - 3 years post-graduate professional experience is also required.
2. Apply: An online application should be completed as part of the application process. This includes; general questions about yourself, copy of CV, a professional photo, University degree Certificate and transcripts in addition to 3 short 100 word essay-style questions.
3. Online Assessments:
   • Psychometrics - Shortlisted applicants will be invited to complete up to 3 psychometrics during the application process. These can be shared with you upon request after the selection process has ended. Successful candidates will also be shared their psychometric results as part of their Professional and Career Development module during the programme.
   • Language Fluency - If you have a level of fluency in a relevant language to one of the programme market locations e.g. French, Spanish, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese (but not limited to) you will be invited to complete an online assessment and potentially an informal phone call with a native speaker. Please note that you may still be considered for other markets that are English speaking aside from your language being assessed.
4. Assessment Centre: Assessment centre will take place in Autumn 2026
   • First Round Interview (online via Zoom) - Tasked to deliver a short presentation on a pre-assigned brief, followed by a short Q&A, before a structured competency-based interview with a panel. Interview panellists consist of Bord Bia, University College Dublin and Food/Drink Industry representatives.
     • Written Language Assessment - If you have been shortlisted for your level of fluency in a specific language you will be tasked with a short written exercise before your interview.
   • Second Round Interview (in-person) - Further shortlisted candidates may be asked to attend and in-person second round interview in Autumn 2026. Exact details will be provided at this stage of the assessment centre.
5. Offer: Successful candidates will be sent an offer by end of 2026 including their assigned market location and will be required to sign a learning assignment internship agreement committing to the full-time 18-month programme starting spring 2027.

If you have any queries about this programme, please contact a member of our team by email bordbia@ucd.ie

To be eligible for the programme, applicants must meet the following entry requirements: