Program Overview
The Brewing and Brewery Operations Diploma at KPU is a two-year program that provides comprehensive training in the science, production, and business of brewing craft beer. It combines theoretical learning with extensive hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art pilot brewery, preparing students for successful careers in the growing craft beer industry. The program emphasizes brewing science, equipment, recipe formulation, sensory evaluation, production, packaging, and management skills. Graduates are highly sought after by breweries and related businesses, with most receiving job offers before graduation.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Brewing and Brewery Operations Diploma (KPU)
This two-year program offers comprehensive training in the science, production, and business of brewing craft beer.
Objectives:
- Equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to secure fulfilling and successful careers in the craft beer industry.
- Provide a foundation in microbiology and brewing science through theoretical learning and hands-on practice.
- Develop practical expertise in brewing equipment and technologies, recipe formulation, sensory evaluation, brewing chemistry and microbiology, production and packaging, sales and promotion, and management and supervisory skills.
Program Description:
- Combines a solid theoretical foundation with extensive practical experience through a state-of-the-art, two-hectolitre pilot brewery on the Langley campus.
- Delivers a personalized learning environment with small class sizes and individual support from experienced instructors.
- Prepares students for the demanding physical nature of the brewing industry, emphasizing safety protocols and appropriate attire.
- Requires full-time commitment, although opportunities for employment exist within KPU and through external partnerships.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Microbiology and brewing science
- Brewing equipment and technologies
- Recipe formulation
- Sensory evaluation
- Brewing chemistry and microbiology
- Production and packaging
- Sales and promotion
- Management and supervisory skills
Program Structure:
- Two-year full-time diploma program
- Offered at KPU's Langley campus
- Combines theoretical and practical learning
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- A variety of assessment methods are likely employed, including:
- Written assignments
- Laboratory reports
- Practical assessments
- Presentations
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- A combination of teaching methods is likely used, including:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Practical sessions
- Guest lectures
- Industry visits
Faculty:
- The program is likely taught by experienced instructors with extensive brewing and beer industry experience.
Unique Approaches:
- The program utilizes a state-of-the-art pilot brewery for hands-on training.
- The program has a strong industry focus, ensuring students receive relevant and current knowledge and skills.
Careers:
Career Paths:
- Head brewer
- Assistant brewer
- Brewery operations
- Quality control manager
- Sensory analysis technician
- Brew pub operations
- Marketing and public relations
- Agency sales and operations
- Retail sales and distribution
- Human resources
- Packaging
Opportunities and Outcomes:
- High demand for trained and skilled brewers in the growing craft beer industry.
- Most students receive job offers before graduation.
- Graduates can pursue various career paths within the industry.
Other:
Program Highlights:
- Award-winning teaching brewery
- Strong emphasis on brewing science and quality control
- Industry-recognized program
- Excellent employment outcomes
Additional Resources:
- KPU Brewing Job Board
- KPU's Career Services