Whitworth University Launches Brewing Science & Operations Certificate

Whitworth University will launch a Brewing Science & Operations Certificate program this fall for adult students and community members through its School of Continuing Studies. Designed for adults who want to work in a craft brewery or start their own brewing business, this Inland Northwest premier brewing program is intended to tap into a highly employable and growing market. 

Students will be rigorously educated in the craft of brewing beer by studying topics within science, business and culture. The program continues Whitworth’s tradition of mind-and-heart education, showing students that mindfulness, dedication, knowledge and creativity can lead to a meaningful vocation in the brewing industry. 

Covering both theory and application, the program provides valuable hands-on experience at our facility located adjacent to the campus. Professional-grade brewing equipment will be used to give students the opportunity to learn how to use the same type of equipment that is used in actual brewery settings. Students will take four courses and be required to complete an internship at a local brewery. Classes include Introduction to Brewing, Intermediate Brewing, Business & Marketing of Brewing, and Advanced Brewing. 

“Spokane is the perfect place for a brewing education program based in fermentation science and hands-on experience with professional brewing equipment,” says Professor of Biology Aaron Putzke, the Brewing Science & Operations Certificate program director. “We are tapping into the deep well of knowledge with local craft brewers that will give students rich experiences during the internship portion of the program. Overall, our goal is to support and be a resource for the outstanding craft brewing community in our region by creating a talent pool of well-trained individuals who can hit the ground running whether plugging into an existing brewery or setting out on their own.”

Class sizes will be limited to allow for more individualized time with instructors. Students will benefit from networking opportunities with regional craft brewers. No previous brewing experience is necessary, and no prerequisites or prior college credits are required to get started; all applicants must meet School of Continuing Studies admission and age requirements.

Applications are currently being accepted and are due Aug. 1. Limited space is available. For more information on the program, please click here.

Note: All parts of this program will adhere to Whitworth University’s policy prohibiting the consumption of alcohol on campus. Thus, an off-campus location will allow for critical training of sensory analysis.

About Whitworth University:

Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university, which has an enrollment of nearly 3,000 students, offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Contacts: 

Trisha Coder, media relations manager, Whitworth University, (509) 777-4703 or tcoder@whitworth.edu.