Viticulture & Enology
The Department of Viticulture and Enology is a comprehensive education, research and extension program that prepares students for successful careers in the wine industry and supports winemakers and grape growers globally. Enhanced by renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, the V&E Department takes a hands-on, multidisciplinary approach, offering students technical, scientific, and practical experience.
Degree Options
Viticulture & Enology Undergraduate Major
The Viticulture and Enology major provides students with a comprehensive understanding of both the science of growing grapevines and the science of winemaking. The program emphasizes applying critical thinking and problem-solving to address issues facing the global viticulture and enology industry. Students will demonstrate technical competence in viticulture and enology, especially as it relates to plant health, fruit composition, winemaking practices, and the chemical, microbiological, and sensory analysis of wines. They will evaluate and adapt foundational viticultural and enological practices to be environmentally and socially equitable. The program also promotes and values life-long learning through engagement with government agencies, university research and extension, and industry in a professional manner.
MS or PhD in Horticulture
The MS and PhD degrees in Horticulture are research based degrees that offer students the opportunity to focus on projects related to viticulture and enology. The objectives for the MS degree are to train students in the experimental method and to prepare them for handling major projects after graduation or for entering a doctoral program. All doctoral candidates conduct independent research leading to a dissertation, with the goal of making a significant contribution to the body of scientific knowledge in Horticulture.
Beginning in Fall 2026, WSU will also launch a new MSc in Viticulture and Enology. This new graduate program will provide an additional pathway for advanced study and professional preparation in the field, with more information to come.
Beginning in Fall 2026, WSU will also launch a new MSc in Viticulture and Enology. This new graduate program will provide an additional pathway for advanced study and professional preparation in the field, with more information to come.
Viticulture & Enology Certificate Programs
This non-credit professional certificate offers separate tracks for careers in either viticulture or enology, taught by Washington State University faculty and industry leaders. The viticulture track focuses on grape growing, while the enology track emphasizes wine production and sensory analysis. Each certificate includes online courses over 18 months, allowing flexible study schedules. Additionally, three required weekend camps provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Viticulture camps focus on grapevines, crushing grapes, and lab analyses, while enology camps center on wine production and sensory analysis. These camps take place in Prosser and Richland, WA.
Brewing Certificate Program
This non-credit professional certificate offers comprehensive training for careers in brewing, covering topics from grain handling and production to brewery design, regulation, and business operations. Taught by beer industry leaders, this 12-month program includes flexible online courses that fit any schedule. Additionally, two required weekend camps provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities, held at various partner sites around the state of Washington.