Bachelor of Viticulture

What is this course about?

CSU's Bachelor of Viticulture is designed for specialist vineyard management with extensive studies of viticulture, vine physiology, vine pests and diseases, water and soil management.

CSU's Bachelor of Viticulture is designed for specialist vineyard management with extensive studies of viticulture, vine physiology, vine pests and diseases, and water and soil management. A range of electives enables development of sensory skills, communication, wine production, resource management or marketing skills.

CSU has contributed to the industry since 1975 by developing courses that offer a unique blend of science, business and practical training for wine industry personnel. With access to an on campus commercial winery, which is at the forefront of viticultural practices and winemaking techniques, and teaching staff who are experienced professionals in the field, our students graduate with the knowledge and hands-on experience that give them the edge in the wine industry.

The course aims to:

• provide the scientific background in chemistry, plant sciences, soil science and statistics, which underpin applied viticulture and wine production studies
• examine topics such as site selection, grapevine varieties, propagation, vineyard establishment and management, irrigation and plant protection
• cover the chemical and biological processes that affect wine production, the principles, techniques and procedures for producing quality wines, and also sensory evaluation.

Students are required to gain experience in a commercial vineyard and winery to complete the requirements of the subject Winegrowing Experience. Applicants must have access to a fully developed vineyard and winery to complete the practical requirements of the course.

What will I learn?

The course comprises pure science, viticulture, wine production and some business subjects. The pure science subjects provide the scientific background in chemistry, plant sciences and soil sciences (including irrigation) that underpins the applied viticulture and wine production studies. Students also develop skills in wine sensory assessment. The business subjects provide grounding in organisation and management relevant to a business operation.

Residential school

Some subjects require students to attend residential schools at CSU in Wagga Wagga. Using the University's facilities, these residential schools provide you with the opportunity to immerse yourself in the area of study for an intensive period of two to four days.

Academic expectations

For each 8 point subject at CSU, students should normally expect to spend between 140-160 hours engaged in the specified learning and assessment activities (such as attending lectures or residential schools, assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, assignments or examinations). The student workload for some subjects may vary from these norms as a result of approved course design.

Students will be assessed on the basis of completed assignments, examinations, workplace learning, or other methods as outlined in specific subject outlines.

Where applicable, students are responsible for travel and accommodation costs involved in workplace learning experiences, or attending residential schools (distance education students).

Expectations relating to academic, workplace learning, time and cost requirements for specific subjects are provided in the subject abstracts and in course materials.