Master of Science in Viticulture and Enology

Apply Now

Program Link:
Priority Deadlines:

Campus:

  • Tri-Cities

International Student English Proficiency Exams

International students may need to surpass the Graduate School’s minimum English language proficiency exam scores for this program. If the graduate program has unique score requirements, they will be detailed below. Otherwise, please refer to the Graduate School’s minimum score guidelines.

Degree Description:

The Master of Science in Viticulture and Enology is a research-based graduate degree that provides advanced scientific training in grape growing and winemaking. Students develop expertise through a formal research project culminating in a written thesis, with coursework spanning viticulture, enology, wine chemistry, microbiology, and sensory analysis. The program is housed at WSU Tri-Cities and draws on the world-class resources of the Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Wine Science Center and the Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center (IAREC) in Prosser.

Program Details:

 

  • Minimum 30 credit hours
  • Thesis required
  • Typical completion: 2–3 years
  • Campus: WSU Tri-Cities

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in viticulture, enology, horticulture, food science, chemistry, or a closely related field
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose describing research interests and career goals
  • Contact the department to discuss potential faculty advisors prior to applying

Student Opportunities:

Research Excellence

 

  • Hands-on research at the Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Wine Science Center, featuring state-of-the-art enology and analytical chemistry laboratories
  • Field research opportunities at IAREC vineyards in Prosser
  • Access to a fully operational research winery for small-scale winemaking experiments
  • Mentorship from internationally recognized faculty in viticulture, enology, wine chemistry, and microbiology
  • Opportunities to present research at national conferences including the American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) Annual Conference
  • Engagement with Washington’s wine industry through industry partnerships, extension programs, and professional networks

Career Opportunities:

Industry Sector

  • Viticulturist or vineyard manager
  • Enologist or winemaker
  • Director of vineyard or winery operations
  • Research and development specialist
  • Sustainability and innovation consultant

Academic Sector

 

  • PhD program preparation in viticulture, enology, or related disciplines
  • Research positions at universities and agricultural experiment stations
  • Extension education and outreach

Contact Information: