MSc Viticulture & Oenology

Course Overview

This conversion Master’s degree is designed to equip you with a comprehensive and systematic understanding of wine science and its related disciplines. Whether you’re looking to enter the wine industry or deepen your scientific expertise, this programme provides the knowledge and practical skills needed to make informed and complex decisions in viticulture and oenology. It is particularly well-suited for graduates from scientific backgrounds such as chemistry, food science, environmental science, biochemistry, and microbiology.

What does the course cover?
You’ll explore a wide range of core topics, including sparkling wine production, climate change and its impact on viticulture, sustainable practices, and the chemical and microbiological analysis of wine faults. The programme includes 120 credits of taught modules alongside a 60-credit research thesis, giving you the opportunity to investigate areas such as vineyard management, innovative winemaking techniques, or spoilage microbiology.

Throughout the course, you’ll benefit from the support of experienced academic staff and have access to Plumpton College’s specialist facilities, including a unique research winery and well-equipped laboratories. Study trips to prominent winemaking regions—such as Champagne and Cava —offer valuable real-world insights into global wine production practices.

Year 1

Students will complete the following core taught modules as part of the programme:

• Analysis of Wine Components and Faults (15 credits)
• Climate Change and Sustainable Wine Production (15 credits)
• The Science of Sparkling Wine (15 credits)
• The science and application of grapevine biology (30 credits)
• The Science and Application of Wine Making (30 credits)
• Research Methods and Statistics (PG) (15 credits)

Part-time students will typically complete 60 credits in their first year, focusing on:

• The Science and Application of Grapevine Biology
• The Science and Application of Winemaking

Year 2

Once you’ve completed the taught phase, you’ll undertake a substantial independent research project, allowing you to explore a specialist topic in viticulture or oenology in depth. These projects may be carried out in collaboration with industry partners and could include opportunities for research within European wine regions.

• Masters Applied Research Project (60 credits).

To apply, you will need:

• An undergraduate honour degree (BSc/BA)
• A Level 3 qualification in Chemistry and/or Biology
• A WSET Level 2 Award in Wines

Applicants without a scientific background but who hold a degree in a non-related field may also be considered if they can demonstrate relevant experience and a strong interest in viticulture and oenology. If this applies to you, please contact the Programme Manager to discuss your application in more detail. Interviews may form part of the admissions process.

Please note: this course is delivered and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must have an overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0, with no individual component below 5.5.

Bursaries & Scholarships

Each academic year, a limited number of scholarships are available to support research projects—particularly those focused on the sustainability of UK vineyards and wineries. These include:

• NFU Mutual Scholarship – up to £5,000 (subject to change)
• Hazel Murphy Scholarship – up to £5,000 per year (subject to change)

Additional financial support, including hardship funding, may also be available for eligible higher education students. These funds can help cover costs such as travel, accommodation, or essential course equipment. Find out more: Bursaries & financial support