International in Viticulture and Enology

The International in Viticulture and Enology program at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers students a comprehensive and immersive educational experience focused on the science and business of grape growing and wine production. Designed for both aspiring professionals and those looking to deepen their understanding of viticulture and enology, this program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical hands-on training in one of the world's most historically significant wine regions. Students will explore a wide range of topics including grapevine biology, vineyard management, soil science, climate impacts, fermentation technology, wine tasting, quality control, and the global wine industry. The program emphasizes sustainable practices and innovative techniques to address current challenges faced by viticulturists and winemakers.

Throughout the course, students will benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and partnerships with leading wineries and industry experts. They will have opportunities to participate in vineyard and winery internships, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and gain invaluable industry experience. The program also fosters cross-cultural exchange, attracting students from diverse backgrounds, which enriches the learning environment and prepares graduates for careers in international markets. Graduates will be equipped with the scientific, technological, and managerial skills necessary to excel in viticulture, enology, wine sales, marketing, and research industries.

The curriculum is designed to be both academically rigorous and practically oriented, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to contribute to advancements in the field of viticulture and enology. Upon completion, students receive a recognized academic degree that opens numerous career pathways, including vineyard management, winery operations, consulting, quality assurance, and research. With Israel’s reputation as a burgeoning wine-producing country and Jerusalem’s rich historical and cultural landscape, the program provides a unique educational environment that combines tradition, innovation, and global perspectives in the world of wine.

The MSc in Viticulture and Enology is an 18-month academic program that spans four semesters, with classes held two full days per week on Thursdays and Fridays. The program includes theory; practice in a wine-tasting room on the Smith Faculty campus; an internship in cooperation with Soreq Winery, one of Israel’s leading wine producers; and a workshop to be held in Italy or France.

The Vineyard: Planning and cultivating; design; grapevine stocks and types; plot preparation; propagation; planting; trellising; pruning; irrigation; fertilization; mechanization; grape quality treatments.
Wine Production: Equipment and winery management; micro-vinification; chemistry and stability; microbiology; distillation technology; fermentation science.
Analysis of grape juice and wine: Biosynthesis of taste and odor factors; sensory evaluation of types of wine and defects in wine; sensory evaluation of wines from Israel and the world.
Additional Courses: Economics, management and marketing in the wine industry; wine workshop and reading seminar in grapevine and wine production (to be conducted abroad).

Candidates must have a full BSc degree from a recognized institution in a related field, such as biology, chemistry, agriculture or life sciences. Candidates whose background is lacking in specific subjects will be to complete an individualized Preparatory Program either before or in conjunction with the beginning of the Enology program. 

The International in Viticulture and Enology program at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers a range of financing options to support prospective students in their academic pursuits. Tuition fees for international students are established annually and vary depending on the specific components of the program. Generally, the university provides detailed information about tuition costs on its official website, allowing students to plan accordingly. Additionally, various scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available for outstanding applicants, including merit-based scholarships, research grants, and financial assistance for eligible students. These awards are highly competitive and are intended to promote academic excellence and research contributions within the field of viticulture and enology.

Students may also explore external funding sources, such as government-sponsored scholarships, international organizations, and private foundations that support studies in agricultural sciences and enology. The Hebrew University actively encourages international students to apply for such funding, often providing guidance on how to access these resources. Payment plans are often flexible, allowing students to spread the cost over multiple installments to ease financial burdens. Furthermore, some students may secure research assistant positions or teaching roles within the university, which provide stipends or tuition waivers, fostering a practical integration of studies and financial support.

In addition to formal financing options, students are advised to consider related employment opportunities, internships, or cooperative programs that may be available through the university’s network with wineries, vineyards, and the agricultural sector in Israel. These collaborations sometimes offer stipends or part-time work opportunities, contributing to students’ financial stability during their studies. International students are also encouraged to seek advice from the university’s international students office, which provides comprehensive support regarding visas, work permits, and financial planning. Overall, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is committed to providing accessible education by offering a variety of funding avenues and support services designed to facilitate the successful completion of the International in Viticulture and Enology program, regardless of students’ economic backgrounds.

The International Program in Viticulture and Enology at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is a specialized academic offering designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the fields of grape growing and wine production. This program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, combining traditional viticultural and enological techniques with modern scientific methods. Students are introduced to a variety of topics, including grapevine biology, vineyard management, soil science, pest and disease control, wine chemistry, sensory analysis, and sustainable practices in viticulture and enology. The courses are delivered by experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective areas, ensuring students receive high-quality education grounded in scientific research and practical application.

The program is tailored to meet the needs of both Israeli and international students, fostering an environment of cultural and academic diversity. It often integrates hands-on laboratory work, vineyard visits, and internships with local wineries, providing students with real-world experience that complements their theoretical knowledge. The curriculum aims to prepare graduates for careers in the global wine industry, research institutions, or further academic pursuits. The Hebrew University boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, research centers, and designated vineyard areas, creating an ideal setting for experiential learning.

Students enrolled in this program benefit from a collaborative learning environment that encourages innovation, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry. Additionally, the program may offer opportunities for international exchange, joint research projects, and participation in local wine-making events and festivals. Graduates of this program are equipped with the skills necessary to contribute to sustainable wine production, advancing the scientific understanding of viticulture and enology on an international scale. The program also emphasizes environmental stewardship and the ethical aspects of wine production, aligning with global trends toward sustainable and responsible agriculture.

Overall, the International Program in Viticulture and Enology at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem aims to cultivate highly skilled professionals who will excel in their careers and promote innovation and sustainability within the global wine industry. The combination of rigorous academic training and practical experience makes this program a unique opportunity for aspiring viticulturists and enologists worldwide.