Viticulture and Enology
The Viticulture and Enology Bachelor of Science program at Cornell University offers a scientifically rich and industry focused academic environment for students who want to understand grape cultivation, wine production, and the biological processes that shape wine quality. The curriculum integrates plant biology, soil science, microbiology, chemistry, vineyard management, and fermentation science, giving learners a comprehensive understanding of how environmental conditions, agricultural practices, and biochemical mechanisms influence grape development and wine characteristics. With a strong emphasis on wine science, students develop the ability to evaluate vine health, analyze fermentation outcomes, and connect scientific principles with practical winemaking decisions across diverse climates and production styles.
Throughout the four year program, students collaborate with faculty and researchers who specialize in viticulture, fermentation, plant pathology, sensory evaluation, and sustainable agricultural systems. Learners engage in laboratory work, vineyard field studies, hands on winemaking, sensory analysis sessions, and research based coursework that strengthen their skills in agricultural evaluation, scientific experimentation, and production planning. The academic environment encourages a blend of scientific rigor and applied learning, allowing students to explore the full lifecycle of wine production from soil preparation to bottling. This combination of scientific depth, technical skill, and industry engagement prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to the evolving fields of viticulture, enology, and sustainable agricultural management.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Viticulture and Enology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Agribusiness
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1
• Foundations of Plant and Soil Science
• Introduction to Viticulture and Wine Production
• General Chemistry with Laboratory
• Elective in Biology, Environmental Science, or Agricultural Systems
Year 2
• Grapevine Growth and Physiology
• Microbiology for Fermentation and Agriculture
• Soil and Vineyard Management
• Elective in Crop Science, Sustainability, or Agricultural Engineering
Year 3
• Enology and Fermentation Science
• Sensory Evaluation of Wines
• Vineyard Operations and Technology
• Elective in Wine Chemistry, Pest Management, or Plant Pathology
Year 4
• Winery Production and Capstone Project
• Professional Development in Agriculture and Agribusiness
• Advanced Seminar in Viticulture and Enology
• Elective Supporting Final Research or Industry Focus
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue a wide range of roles across the wine, agriculture, and food science industries, frequently joining vineyard management teams, winemaking and production facilities, agricultural research organizations, and sensory and quality analysis laboratories. Their training in plant science, fermentation, environmental management, and production techniques equips them to contribute to vineyard operations, crop planning, fermentation monitoring, product development, and sustainability centered agricultural strategies. Many graduates take on roles in agribusiness management, consulting, extension services, or industry education, where their ability to interpret scientific data, understand environmental conditions, and optimize production processes is highly valuable. With strong interdisciplinary knowledge and practical technical skill, they support initiatives that enhance grape quality, improve winery efficiency, guide sustainable agricultural practices, and strengthen the overall competitiveness of wine and agricultural enterprises.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent option for students who want a scientific, hands on, and industry aligned agricultural education, offering opportunities to develop advanced agricultural insight and strong scientific capability supported by Cornell’s leading expertise in viticulture and enology. Learners benefit from a curriculum that blends fieldwork, laboratory analysis, sensory evaluation, and research driven study, enabling them to understand how natural environments, plant biology, and production technologies intersect within modern viticulture and winemaking. Through applied coursework, industry partnerships, and experiential learning, students gain the tools to manage vineyards, evaluate grape quality, interpret fermentation processes, and design sustainable production strategies. Its structured four year format ensures deep scientific grounding, practical mastery, and professional readiness for impactful careers in viticulture, enology, agribusiness, and agricultural science.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
