Viticulture

Certificate

Viticulture students in the enology laboratory at the FLCC Viticulture and Wine Center

If you want to work in the wine industry or are curious about winemaking, our viticulture certificate will introduce you to the field quickly. Online courses provide additional flexibility to help you complete program requirements on your schedule.

Certificate Program Overview

Our certificate program provides a practical education in grape growing and winemaking. Use commercial vineyard equipment and winemaking technology during two extensive practicums as you create wine from start to finish. After completing this 29-credit program, you'll be prepared to seek an entry-level position in the wine industry or to apply your skills as a winemaking hobbyist.

Network with Industry Experts

Meet business leaders working at some of the 140+ wineries in the region. Acquire real-world knowledge of planting, pruning, harvesting, fermenting, and more through field trips and guest speakers. Take advantage of our internship opportunities and gain work experience with one of our many local partners.

Learn about the regional wine industry by visiting Finger Lakes wine businesses, including:

  • Anthony Road Wine Company
  • Bully Hill Vineyards
  • Cornell AgriTech
  • Finger Lakes Grape Program
  • Hillick and Hobbs Estate
  • Lakewood Vineyards

Professional Wine Production Facilities

As a viticulture student, you'll take most or all of your classes at the Viticulture and Wine Center in Geneva, NY. This professional facility features a teaching winery, vineyard, enology lab, aging rooms, crush pad, and classroom.

Work with the same wine technology and equipment you'll find at local wineries throughout the Finger Lakes region.

Tour the Viticulture and Wine Center


FLCC main building on the Canandaigua Campus

Online Learning

Over 50% of our viticulture certificate program courses are available online. Online learning provides a convenient and flexible way to earn college credit. Study on your time and from a location that fits your busy schedule. Learn more about FLCC online learning.


Certificate Program Outcomes

Career Pathways

With this certificate, you'll be ready for a variety of entry-level employment opportunities in the wine industry, including:

  • Cellar Procedures
  • Equipment Operation
  • Vineyard Management
  • Wine Sales
  • Winemaking
  • Winery Operations

Seamless Transfer Opportunities

Continue your education by transferring into our A.A.S. Viticulture and Wine Technology program. With an associate degree, you'll be well positioned to advance quickly in your career or enter a four-year program where you can further specialize your winemaking expertise.

Low-Cost Tuition and Scholarship Opportunities

Earn a quality education at an affordable rate. With our low cost-per-credit and general scholarship opportunities, you can maximize your potential with minimal debt. 80% of students are awarded scholarships or financial aid that help with the cost of college.

As a Viticulture and Wine Technology student, you may also be eligible to apply for program specific scholarships, including:

  • Constellation Brands Viticultural Scholarship
  • Garmezy & Murphy Viticulture Scholarship
  • James P. Finkle Viticulture Scholarship
  • John Brahm III Scholarship
  • Melissa Young Memorial Scholarship
  • Monty Stamp Memorial Scholarship
  • Nelson J. Shaulis Fund for the Advancement of Viticulture
  • Sam Argetsinger Memorial Scholarship

For details on these scholarships, contact the FLCC Foundation.

Faculty

Our Viticulture and Wine Technology faculty are dedicated to both their craft and teaching. Some of our instructors operate their own vineyards and wineries, while others conduct wine research. With decades of combined experience, our faculty and staff are eager to share their passion for the industry and help you succeed. Faculty networks with local wineries and international wine regions — such as Argentina, Australia, and France — help you build connections in the wine industry, leading to exciting internships and job opportunities.

Career Coach

Explore Your Career Options

Map out a path toward your future career, and discover opportunities related to this area of study.

Access Career Coach