Brewing Science Certificate

The first Brewing Science program in Connecticut.

Apply Now

The Brewing Science Certificate is a valuable gateway to the brewing industry, and a way for those already in the industry to bolster their resume with broad skills rooted in brewing science.

The program includes training in the following topics, among others:

• scientific brewing theory
• ingredient science and recipe design
• beer styles
• sensory analysis science
• brewery operations and practical professional equipment use
• sanitation and safety
• quality control & quality assurance
• brewery management
• brewing law and legal compliance

Our instructors are craft brewing leaders, fermentation scientists and business professionals, giving a comprehensive approach to your brewing science education.

Coursework

Coursework is hybrid, in the evenings and on weekends. At 12 credits, the program is designed to be completed in just under one year.

Students have three learning tracks to choose from:

• Certificate: all courses in the desired program of study (12 credits)
• Foundation: BRS 101 & BRS 111 (5 credits)
• Advanced: BRS 110 & BRS 211 (6 credits)

View Program of Study

Foundations of Craft Brewing & Distillation Credential | 5 credits

This suite of coursework is the appropriate point of entry for those aspiring to enter the craft brewing or distillation industry who have little prior experience. In addition, avid home brewers or distillers seeking advanced instruction to enhance their skills would find these courses highly beneficial. Completion of this module is required for the Certificate in Brewing Science or Certificate in Distillation Science. Courses run concurrently with an annual start date in late May.

Advanced Brewing Science | 6 credits

The courses in advanced brewing techniques are required for students completing the Brewing Science Certificate. The courses are appropriate for professionals working in the industry who are seeking to enhance their qualifications and skills. Prerequisite: Completion of Foundations of Craft Brewing & Distillation Science Core. Individuals with substantial prior experience in the craft brewing or distillation industry may be permitted to test out of the Foundations Core and pursue the Certificate in Brewing Science beginning with enrollment in Advanced Brewing Science. Courses are offered annually beginning in late August.

Fieldwork, Internship & Teaching Brewery

Students visit breweries and other facilities important to the brewing industry, and complete a semester-long internship at one of our partner breweries, allowing hands-on practical experience and the cultivation of relationships with employers and brewery stakeholders.

Additionally, the Craft Beverage Brewing course is taught in SHU's Brew Lab in the Area Two Experimental Brewery at nearby Two Roads Brewing Co., named one of the ten best breweries in the country.

Outcomes & Career Opportunities

Completing the brewing science certificate qualifies students to sit for the Cicerone Certification Program Certified Beer Server exam, which certifies essential knowledge and tasting skill in the industry. Students will also complete OSHA 10 and Brewers Association Safety Certifications, as well as the ServSafe Alcohol Certification.

This certificate is designed to advance the skills and bolster the resumes of those currently in the industry or homebrewers or non-brewers looking to get a strong start in the brewing industry. The experience and knowledge students gain through the program make them competitive candidates in the booming craft beverage job market. Our curriculum provides a solid foundation and competitive resume-building skills for the following brewing industry roles, among others:

• assistant brewer
• entrepreneur starting a brewery
• small brewery head brewer
• cellar person
• quality assurance technician
• quality control technician
• laboratory technician
• sensory analysis program manager
• taproom manager
• brand representative

Our program is guided by an advisory team of top industry professionals and experts in brewing science and business.

Sacred Heart University offers you industry partnerships, world-class facilities, and a central location near prominent breweries of the Northeast – the opportunity to earn your Brewing Science Certificate through hands-on learning and a robust network.

Brewing Scholarships

The New England Brewing Company African American Brewers Scholarship and the Athletic Brewing Company Scholarship each cover the full cost of education for one eligible student. To be eligible, a student must be admitted to the Brewing Science program, of Black or African American race, with priority consideration given to students residing in Connecticut and demonstrating financial need. An interview may be required, but no separate application is necessary.

The CT Pink Boots Society Scholarship for Women in Brewing covers the full cost of education for one eligible student. To be eligible, a student must be a woman, defined as those that identify as female or non-binary, admitted to the Brewing Science program, with priority consideration given to students residing in Connecticut and demonstrating financial need. An interview may be required, but no separate application is necessary.

Application Instructions

• Complete the online application (applications currently being accepted on a rolling basis)
• Pay $50 application fee
• Submit official transcript from most recent degree-granting institution
• Provide proof of age 21+
• Attend a Brewing Science Information Session

Applications are being accepted for the May 2025 cohort until all seats are filled. 

For information about the Brewing Science Certificate, contact Undergraduate Admissions at 203-371-7880 or brewsci@sacredheart.edu.

Apply Now

Cost & Financial Assistance

To view Brewing Science Certificate costs, visit Tuition & Fees. 

You may consider applying for financial assistance in the form of alternative student loans. Student Financial Assistance can work with you to discuss alternative student loan options, if needed. 

The Brewing Science Certificate is approved for VA benefits.

For information about alternative student loans, scholarships or VA benefits, contact Colleen Mulrooney, Director of Student Financial Assistance, at mulrooneyc@sacredheart.edu or 203-365-4702.

@brewatshu on Instagram

Follow @brewatshu