Mar 19, 2024  
2019-2020 Academic Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Academic Catalog Archived Catalog

Brewing Science and Brewery Operations, AAS


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The Brewing Science and Brewery Operations program prepares individuals for careers in the craft brewing industry.  Students will have exclusive use of the on-campus brewery, featuring a custom 3.5 barrel brewhouse, along with cellaring equipment, a dedicated laboratory, and a 5-10 gallon pilot brewing system.  They will complete coursework in brewing science and technology, microbiology, chemistry, facilities and operations, and business applications.  Upon completion of this program, students will be able to

  • Discuss the production, selection, and analysis of raw brewing materials;
  • Describe the fundamental techniques of the brewing process;
  • Apply Clean-in-Place (CIP) technologies to brewery sanitation;
  • Identify, select, and safely utilize equipment and technologies in brewery operations;
  • Evaluate beer quality and implement QA/QC measures into beer production, packaging, and handling;
  • Explain the microbiology and biochemistry concepts related to wort production and beer fermentation;
  • Identify beer styles and characteristics, as well as the causes of defects in beer;
  • Apply business principles related to brewing, including compliance, licensing, and sustainability;
  • Design beer recipes and implement process controls to consistently brew acceptable beer for packaging, distribution, and consumption.

Required Courses


First Year


Second Year


Total Credits: 62-64


WRIT 101W/BMGT 205C, COMX 111C/COMX 115C, and CAPP 116 may be taken during any semester.

2  A professional brewing internship is required for this program. Students may repeat BREW 298  to complete a minimum of two internship credits and a maximum of four. Students are eligible to take internships after the second semester in the program and will be guided through the application process.

*Indicates prerequisite and/or corequisite needed. Check course description.

Program Information


  • All courses in this program must be passed with a grade of “C” or better for graduation eligibility.

Admission Guidelines


  • Due to limited classroom and lab availability, this program requires an admissions process: Application deadline is August 1. 
  • Placement exams may be required.
  • Students must be at least 21 years of age to start the program.

Additional Costs


  • Additional program costs, books and lab fees, are estimated at $2,000. Scholarships are available.

Opportunities after Graduation


This degree prepares students for entry- and mid-level brewing industry positions with opportunities for advancement. Graduates may work as assistant brewers, cellar and packaging operators, and/or quality assurance technicians to start, with excellent professional growth potential.

Advising Information:


For more information about this program, contact the FVCC Student Support Center or the Program Advisor. 

Student Support Center Advisor Program Advisor                  
Russ Lamson Joe Byers
LRC 129 RH 118
(406) 756-3885 (406) 756-4359
rlamson@fvcc.edu jbyers@fvcc.edu

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