uc davis viticulture and enology majors taste grapes together in vineyard

Viticulture and Enology

College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

  • Bachelor of Science

Could there be a more romantic major than wine? Students of viticulture and enology swish mouthfuls of Merlot and compare them to notes of coffee, lavender, wormwood and star anise for a grade. They roam the campus vineyards with a professor and classmates who don wide-brimmed sun hats as they test grape leaves for their hydration. They can crush grapes, ferment wine and travel to France for internships. Come study grape growing (viticulture) and wine making (enology) along with a dose of statistical analysis at one of the most highly ranked public universities in the nation and the world.

Major Requirements

The viticulture and enology major stresses the scientific aspects of the discipline, and requires you to complete a thorough grounding in the natural sciences before you proceed to more advanced courses. At the upper division, you will take courses in at least three of five main areas: plant science, food science and microbiology, economics and business, foreign language and internships. This well-rounded program provides you with a balance of skills needed for understanding and advancement in your career.

Contact Information

Degree Outcomes

Careers

  • Cellar Manager
  • Chemist
  • Enologist
  • Marketing Specialist
  • Microbiologist
  • Sales Representative
  • Sensory Scientist
  • Tasting Room Manager

Graduate Study

  • Horticulture and agronomy
  • Food science
  • Agricultural and environmental chemistry
  • Viticulture and enology
  • Medicine

Alumni Employers

  • E. & J. Gallo Winery
  • Gloria Ferrer Wines
  • Lagunitas Brewing Company
  • Tastevinage
  • Hanzell Vineyards
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Internship opportunities

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Your course roadmap

Find the detailed course requirements for your program and map out your path to graduation.

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The faculty you will work with

Our undergraduates work directly with our faculty through research projects and labs.

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Global learning programs

Expand your horizons by studying abroad or pursuing global learning on campus.

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Undergraduate research

Get hands on with your interests. Participate in one of our hundreds of research opportunities.

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What can I do with my viticulture and enology major?

Learn how to connect your viticulture and enology major to career opportunities.

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