Student looking at purple grapes on a vine.
CAHNRS Undergraduate Education

Viticulture & Enology

Learn the science and technology of growing high quality grapes and developing premium wines while working alongside faculty in cutting-edge facilities.
CAHNRS > Academics > Undergraduate Programs > Viticulture and Enology

Explore the Possibilities

Enhanced by renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, the V&E major provides students with a hands-on, multidisciplinary educational approach, providing technical, scientific, and practical experiences. 

The undergraduate degree path will lead to a Bachelor of Science in Viticulture and Enology.

The Viticulture and Enology department offers a comprehensive education and research program that will prepare you for a successful career in the wine and grape industry in Washington and beyond.

The Washington wine industry is one of the most rapidly growing sectors of the state’s agricultural economy. Washington is the second-largest wine producing state in the US, with over 1,000 wineries making over 17M cases of wine, contributing more than $8B in annual in-state economic impact.

Student sniffing wine.

Contact

509-372-7224
ve.department@wsu.edu

Viticulture & Enology website

Career Opportunities

  • Winemaker/Enologist/ Cellar Master
  • Vineyard Manager/Viticulturist
  • Winery/Vineyard owner
  • Wine/Grape Sales Representative
  • Research Technician/Scientist
  • Wine Business Executive
  • Vineyard Consultant/Agronomist
  • Grower Relations
Man Working on Prescribed Fire.

Quick Facts

$75,000+ Average salary for wineries that produce 50,000 cases and under (Wine Business Monthly)
48,000 Awarded in scholarships
6.1% Increase in industry salaries
12:1 Student to faculty ratio

Major Requirements

Minimum Total Credits: 120 credits

Your program may include different courses. Consult with your advisor about the best combination and order of courses for you. Visit the WSU Catalog for a list of required courses for this major and course descriptions.

General Education Requirements: 45 credits

Core Requirements: 26 credits

  • VIT ENOL 113: Introduction to Vines and Wines – 3 credits
  • VIT ENOL 313: Viticulture – 3 credits
  • VIT ENOL 399/VIT ENOL 496: Professional Work Experience/Internship – 2 credits
  • VIT ENOL 413: Advanced Viticulture – 3 credits
  • VIT ENOL 422: Sensory Evaluation of Food and Wine – 3 credits
  • VIT ENOL 433: Critical Thinking in Vineyard and Winery Management – 3 credits
  • VIT ENOL 435: Chemistry and Biochemistry of Fruit and Wine – 3 credits
  • VIT ENOL 440: Winery Operations and Equipment – 3 credits
  • VIT ENOL 465: Wine Microbiology and Processing – 3 credits

Non-departmental Core Requirements: 36 credits

Electives Outside the Major: 13 credits

While attending WSU I gained a wealth of knowledge in my field and established deep and meaningful connections with my classmates and professors. The community, camaraderie, and wine facilities are unparalleled. It is truly priceless experience.

Monique Ortiz, Viticulturist, Sevenhills Vineyard
Monique Ortiz.