Go to Wine School

Winemaking is often thought of as a trade that is passed through generations, from one winemaker to another. While this is still true, some winemakers are opting to formalize their education with a degree in oenology or viticulture.

Here are five universities and colleges that grant degrees in winemaking.

Oeonology and Viticulture, Brock University

Students can obtain a Bachelor or Master of Science in Oenology and Viticulture through the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute. The program is designed to train students to work in a cool climate wine region, combining a science background with practical winemaking skills. Students are also exposed to the fundamentals of wine marketing, tourism and wine appreciation. Those with a science degree can opt for a certificate in Grape and Wine Technology.

Viticulture and Enology, University of California Davis

The grand-daddy of winemaking university programs, UC Davis has operated a viticulture and enology research and teaching department for more than 100 years. Students can obtain a Bachelor of Science or Master of Science. There is also an extension certificate in winemaking for distance learners and a Wine Executive program designed to teach winemaking and wine management skills.

Winery and Viticulture Technician, Niagara College Teaching Winery

The Niagara College Teaching Winery is the centre for wine education in the Niagara Peninsula. Students can attend the college to receive an education in winemaking and viticulture, wine business management or to become a certified sommelier. The college has its own lab equipment and vineyards and emphasizes "real world" wine skills.

Viticulture and Enology, Cornell University

Cornell created its undergraduate program to respond to the demand for winemaking professionals in the New York and Northeast wine regions and its curriculum focuses on cool climate winemaking. The program allows students to customize their degree through electives, such as business management courses, and to learn through an internship.

Wine Research Centre, University of British Columbia

The Wine Research Centre accepts science graduate students to conduct research on viticulture and oenology. The Wine Research Centre studies the molecular genetics of wine yeasts, grapevines and the aging of wines produced in B.C. It has a wine library that holds up to 22,000 bottles of wine for careful study, among other neat toys.

Photo: Greg Harness