Viticulture and Oenology (QA only), BSc

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Viticulture and Oenology program at the University of Greenwich equips students with a comprehensive understanding of grape growing and winemaking, preparing them for diverse careers in the wine industry. The program emphasizes specialized knowledge in viticulture, oenology, and wine science, focusing on the practical and theoretical aspects of the field. Students gain hands-on experience through workshops and field trips, developing a range of academic, technical, and critical thinking skills essential for success in the industry.

Program Outline

Viticulture and Oenology (QA only), BSc (Plumpton College) | University of Greenwich, London

Degree Overview:

This BSc (Hons) Viticulture and Oenology degree, offered at Plumpton College, provides a comprehensive education in the science and art of grape growing and winemaking. The program aims to equip students with a range of academic and transferable skills, preparing them for diverse employment opportunities within the wine industry. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in wine studies, allowing students to specialize as they progress. It caters to the growing demand for highly qualified professionals in the UK's expanding wine sector, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to contribute to quality and innovation.

Outline:

Full-time:

Year 1:

• Vineyard Engineering and Operations (15 credits): This module explores the engineering principles and practical operations involved in vineyard management.
• Understanding Wine Styles (15 credits): Students delve into the diverse styles of wine, examining factors influencing their characteristics and production.
• Wine Component Analysis (15 credits): This module focuses on the chemical analysis of wine components, understanding their impact on flavor and quality.
• Fundamentals of Wine Science (30 credits): A foundational module covering the scientific principles underlying wine production, from grape physiology to fermentation processes.
• Vineyard Establishment (30 credits): This module explores the establishment of vineyards, including site selection, soil management, and planting techniques.
• Study and Research Skills (15 credits): Students develop essential academic and research skills, preparing them for independent study and research projects.

Year 2:

• Wine Sales and Social Responsibility (15 credits): This module examines the commercial aspects of wine sales, emphasizing ethical and sustainable practices.
• Vineyard Management (30 credits): Students gain practical knowledge and skills in managing vineyards, including pruning, training, and pest control.
• Wine Production and Analysis (30 credits): This module covers the entire winemaking process, from grape reception to bottling, with a focus on quality control and analysis.
• Research Methods and Statistics (15 credits): This module develops students' research skills, focusing on data analysis and statistical methods.

Optional Modules (Choose 15 credits):

• Sparkling Wine Production (15 credits): This module delves into the specialized techniques and processes involved in producing sparkling wines.
• Wine Tourism (15 credits): Students explore the growing field of wine tourism, examining its economic impact and marketing strategies.

Year 3:

• Oenology (30 credits): This module focuses on the science and art of winemaking, covering advanced techniques and winemaking principles.
• Viticulture (30 credits): Students delve deeper into the science and practice of grape growing, exploring advanced viticultural techniques.
• Applied Wine Sensory Evaluation (15 credits): This module develops students' sensory skills, enabling them to critically evaluate and analyze wines.
• Research Project (30 credits): Students undertake an independent research project, applying their knowledge and skills to a specific area of viticulture or oenology.

Optional Modules (Choose 15 credits):

• Vintage Winemaking Placement (15 credits): Students gain practical experience in a winery during a vintage period, applying their knowledge in a real-world setting.
• Summer Vineyard Placement (15 credits): Students gain practical experience in a vineyard during the summer months, applying their knowledge in a real-world setting.

Part-time:

Year 1:

• Vineyard Engineering and Operations (15 credits)
• Vineyard Establishment (30 credits)
• Study and Research Skills (15 credits)

Year 2:

• Understanding Wine Styles (15 credits)
• Wine Component Analysis (15 credits)
• Fundamentals of Wine Science (30 credits)

Year 3:

• Wine Production and Analysis (30 credits)
• Wine Production Business Environment (15 credits)
• Winery Engineering and Operations (15 credits)

Year 4:

• Vineyard Management (30 credits)
• Research Methods and Statistics (15 credits)

Optional Modules (Choose 15 credits):

• Sparkling Wine Production (15 credits)
• English Wine and Tourism (15 credits)

Year 5:

• Oenology (30 credits)
• Viticulture (30 credits)

Year 6:

• Applied Wine Sensory Evaluation (15 credits)
• Research Project (30 credits)

Optional Modules (Choose 15 credits):

• Vintage Winemaking Placement (15 credits)
• Summer Vineyard Placement (15 credits)

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Assignments: Written assignments allow students to demonstrate their research, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Practical Assessments: Practical assessments evaluate students' skills in vineyard management, winemaking, and sensory evaluation.
• Presentations: Oral presentations allow students to communicate their findings and ideas effectively.
• Research Project: The final year research project provides a comprehensive assessment of students' research skills, knowledge, and ability to apply their learning to a specific area of study.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced academics and industry professionals, ensuring a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. The teaching methods include:

• Seminars: Seminars offer a platform for interactive discussions and critical analysis of topics covered in lectures.
• Workshops: Workshops provide hands-on experience in practical skills, such as vineyard management and winemaking techniques.
• Field Trips: Field trips to vineyards and wineries provide students with real-world exposure to the industry and its practices.
• Guest Lectures: Guest lectures by industry experts provide insights into current trends and challenges in the wine sector.

Careers:

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Viticulture and Oenology program are well-prepared for a range of careers in the wine industry, including:

• Viticulturist: Responsible for managing vineyards, including planting, pruning, and pest control.
• Wine Sales and Marketing: Promoting and selling wines to consumers and businesses.
• Wine Educator: Teaching and training others about wine production, appreciation, and consumption.
• Wine Journalist: Writing about wine for publications and websites.
• Wine Researcher: Conducting research on viticulture, oenology, and wine production.

Other:

• The program is offered by Plumpton College, a UK Centre of Excellence in wine education, training, and research.
• The program benefits from an international staff team with extensive practical experience in teaching and learning.
• The program provides opportunities for students to develop careers-related and life-long learning skills, as well as a range of viticultural, oenological, and academic research skills.
• The program is validated and quality assured by the University of Greenwich.