14Jun
BusinessCourse summary
This conversion Master’s degree is designed to equip you with a comprehensive and systematic understanding of wine science and its related disciplines. Whether you’re looking to enter the wine industry or deepen your scientific expertise, this programme provides the knowledge and practical skills needed to make informed and complex decisions in viticulture and oenology. It is particularly well-suited for graduates from scientific backgrounds such as chemistry, food science, environmental science, biochemistry, and microbiology. What does the course cover? You’ll explore a wide range of core topics, including sparkling wine production, climate change and its impact on viticulture, sustainable practices, and the chemical and microbiological analysis of wine faults. The programme includes 120 credits of taught modules alongside a 60-credit research thesis, giving you the opportunity to investigate areas such as vineyard management, innovative winemaking techniques, or spoilage microbiology. Throughout the course, you’ll benefit from the support of experienced academic staff and have access to Plumpton’s specialist facilities, including a unique research winery and well-equipped laboratories. Study trips to prominent winemaking regions—such as Champagne and Cava —offer valuable real-world insights into global wine production practices. Careers Our graduates pursue a wide range of roles within the wine industry, both in the UK and internationally. From vineyard and winery operations to consultancy and production, this MSc equips you with the scientific understanding and hands-on experience to succeed in the global wine sector. Why study at Plumpton?
- We're the national Centre of Excellence in wine education, training, and research, and proud winners of the Queen’s Award 2024.
- Study on our stunning 800-acre Sussex estate, home to a fully working commercial winery.
- Over 40 years of experience training the next generation of winemakers and viticulturists.
- All our courses are quality assured by the University of Greenwich (TEF Gold).
Modules
Students will complete the following core taught modules as part of the programme: • Analysis of Wine Components and Faults (15 credits) • Climate Change and Sustainable Wine Production (15 credits) • The Science of Sparkling Wine (15 credits) • The Science and Application of Grapevine Biology (30 credits) • The Science and Application of Winemaking (30 credits) • Research Methods and Statistics (PG) (15 credits) Part-time students will typically complete 60 credits in their first year, focusing on: • The Science and Application of Grapevine Biology • The Science and Application of Winemaking Once you’ve completed the taught phase, you’ll undertake a substantial independent research project, allowing you to explore a specialist topic in viticulture or oenology in depth. These projects may be carried out in collaboration with industry partners and could include opportunities for research within European wine regions. • Masters Applied Research Project (60 credits).
Assessment method
Assessments for the taught phase range from coursework including case study analysis, practical scientific experiments and presentations including examinations. The final element is a 60-credit research project.
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
Entry requirements
To apply, you will typically need: • An undergraduate honours degree (BSc/BA) • Level 3 qualification in Chemistry and/or Biology • WSET Level 2 Award in Wines. Applicants without a scientific background but who holds a degree in a non-related field may also be considered if they can demonstrate relevant experience and a strong interest in viticulture and oenology. If this applies to you, please contact the Programme Manager to discuss your application in more detail. Interviews may form part of the admissions process. Please note: This course is delivered and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must have an overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0, with no individual component below 5.5.
English language requirements
Students with English as a second language will be required to have gained IELTS level 6.5 overall with level 6.0 in writing.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| EU | £12300 | Whole course |
| England | £12300 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £12300 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £12300 | Whole course |
| Wales | £12300 | Whole course |
| Channel Islands | £12300 | Whole course |
| Republic of Ireland | £12300 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
We are unable to sponsor internationals students at present. If you are from the EU including the Republic of Ireland, please get in touch with our Admissions Team.
Sponsorship information
Each academic year, a limited number of scholarships are available to support research projects—particularly those focused on the sustainability of UK vineyards and wineries. These include the NFU Mutual Scholarship and the Hazel Murphy Scholarship. Additional financial support, including hardship funding, may also be available for eligible higher education students. These funds can help cover costs such as travel, accommodation, or essential course equipment.
Provider information
Plumpton College
Ditchling Road
Lewes
BN7 3AE