This certificate program focuses on the business and trade aspects of the wine industry. Topics covered include the business of wine, world wine regions, trade structures, wine marketing, wine merchandising, viticulture, winemaking, wine styles, and professional evaluation techniques. Graduates are prepared for wine-related careers in sales and merchandising, distribution, marketing, import/export, consulting, hospitality, and more.
This certificate program is a 10-week, intensive program and all four courses must be taken. Students will be expected to spend significant amounts of time outside the classroom working on projects, field trips, and assignments.
Pre-admission Requirements
Students must complete the pre-admission requirements prior to admission into the certificate program. Applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years of age prior to the first day of class
- Have a high proficiency with written and oral English language
- Have successfully completed at least 45 quarter credits (or 30 semester credits) of courses from an accredited college or university, including at least two college-level English composition courses
- Have an overall minimum college GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale)
- Fill out and submit the certificate program application, including a written essay of personal motivation and goals
- Sign and submit the written statement regarding personal and professional conduct and responsibility with regard to the use of alcohol
- Submit a CWU CAPS report and/or all previous college/university transcripts. International students must additionally provide a TOEFL iBT score of 71 or higher, or successfully complete Level 5 of the CWU UESL (University English as a Second Language) program. The completed application will be reviewed by the program advisor. Upon approval of the application, an in-person or telephone interview will be conducted between the program advisor and the prospective student. Permission of the advisor is required for admission.
Special Requirements
Students will be expected to spend significant amounts of time outside the classroom working on projects and assignments. Students must obtain a grade of B- or above in all four courses to receive the certificate.
Financial Obligations
Because this is a self-supported program: no tuition waiver programs apply. Additional course fees and continuing tuition apply. Tuition for GWS classes may be higher than regular CWU tuition.