Enology
Associate of Science (AS) Viticulture and Winery Technology · Las Positas College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Overview
The Associate of Science in Enology degree prepares students for either entry-level employment or further study in the field of Enology, or wine-making. The Enology A.S. includes courses in viticulture and winery technology, science, and general education courses. Students will gain both theoretical knowledge as well as hands-on experience on state-of-the-art winery equipment.
Career Opportunities
There are more than 4,700 bonded wineries in California. From established wineries to new ventures, well-trained winery personnel are needed in many positions. Career opportunities related to enology include: wine maker, assistant wine maker, wine analysis lab technician, oenologist, winery supervisor, quality control, production manager, tasting room director, wine sales, wine service, wine hospitality, grape/juice buyer, equipment supplier, wine label design and packaging.
Program Learning Outcome(s)
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Apply general chemistry principles, wine microbiology fundamentals, and laboratory techniques to produce sound wines.
- Perform an accurate wine assessment utilizing acquired organoleptic skills.
- Perform wine analysis methods including laboratory/quality control test during harvest, fermentations, cellaring, and prior to bottling.
- Safely start-up, operate, and shutdown winery equipment; and effectively utilize the equipment during the winemaking process.
Enology (AS): Program Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Core: (32 Units) | ||
| CHEM 31 | Introduction to College Chemistry | 4 |
| CHEM 1A | General College Chemistry I | 5 |
| VWT 10 | Introduction to Viticulture | 3 |
| VWT 20 | Introduction to Enology | 3 |
| VWT 21 | Applied Enology | 3 |
| VWT 23 | Fundamentals of Wine Science | 3 |
| VWT 25 | Sensory Analysis of Wines | 3 |
| VWT 41 | Fall Winery Operations | 3 |
| VWT 42 | Spring Winery Operations | 3 |
| WRKX 94 | Occupational Work Experience/Internship | 2 |
| List A: Select One (3 Units) | ||
| VWT 1 | Wines of the Americas and Beyond | 3 |
| VWT 2 | Wines of Europe | 3 |
| VWT 47 | Wines of California | 3 |
| Total Units for the Major | 35 | |
| Additional General Education and Elective Units | ||
| See the Las Positas College General Education (LPC-GE) pattern or the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) pattern for a listing of areas and courses. Double counting courses in GE and the major is permissible. The number of units that may be double counted will depend on the entry point to the degree program, the optional course(s) taken, and the GE pattern selected. Elective units must be degree applicable. Consult with an adviser or a counselor to plan the courses necessary to achieve your academic goal. | 25 | |
| Total | 60 | |