Wine Science

Do you have dreams of growing your own grapes or producing some wine in Burgundy, Margaret River or the Granite Belt? Do you want to be an important part of an exciting and growing industry? Dream no more. USQ’s Bachelor of Science (Wine Science) is the only degree of its type in Northern Australia and it will not disappoint.

Utilising a purpose-built $8.5 million education and training facility, the Queensland College of Wine Tourism, this degree offers on-site training in commercial vineyards, wineries, winery laboratories, and sensory analysis in association with regional wine shows. Who could resist a residential school in the heart of one of Australia’s burgeoning wine districts? Highly applied and analytical, the course is suitable for school leavers, international students, producers and those of you looking for a career change.

Program structure

Courses to be studied Units

Core courses4

plus 1 x first 8-unit major8 

plus 1 x second 8-unit major plus 4 x electives
or 12 x electives12

Total24 

Course codeCourse name

Core courses:

CSC1402Foundation Computing

STA2300Data Analysis

CMS1100Communicating in the Sciences

MAT1000Mathematics Fundamentals

Wine Science Major:

WIN1101Grape and Wine Production

WIN2200Viticultural and Winemaking Practice1

WIN2210Viticultural Production1

WIN2215Wine Biochemistry & Microbiology1

WIN2220Wine Production1

WIN3310Wine Sensory Analysis2

WIN3304Viticultural and Winemaking Practice 2

SCI3302Industry Placement

To meet prerequisite for this major, 4 units of elective courses need to include the following, which may also be undertaken as part of a second major

CHE1110Chemistry 1

CHE2120Chemistry 2

BIO2202Plant Physiology

plus one of the following two courses:

BIO1101Biology 1

BIO1100Biology Concepts

Footnotes

1 This course will be offered from 2015.

2 This course will be offered from 2016.

Entry requirements

• Year 12 English (4 SA) or equivalent
• Year 12 Mathematics A or B or equivalent
• Recommended prior study: Biological Science, Chemistry, Physics or Multi-strand Science or equivalent. If students do not have the recommended Mathematics B Level for entry then they will be recommended to undertake MAT1000 Mathematics Fundamentals as an elective.

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

International entry requirements

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Pre-requisites

Year 12 Senior Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. Find your country's level of qualificationand minimum entry requirements for this program.

• A-level Mathematics or equivalent
• Recommended study: A-level Biological Science, Chemistry, Physics, or Multi-strand Science or equivalent.

The University of Southern Queensland offers diverse financing options for students enrolled in the Wine Science program to facilitate access to higher education and support student success. International students are required to pay tuition fees, which vary depending on the chosen course and study load. Domestic students may access government loans such as HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP programs, which assist in covering tuition costs, allowing students to defer payments until their income reaches a specified threshold. Additionally, students can benefit from scholarships and grants provided by the university, government agencies, and private organizations, aimed at supporting students pursuing studies in viticulture, enology, and related fields. These financial aids often recognize academic excellence, geographical origin, or specific fields of interest, providing partial or full tuition fee coverage. The university also offers payment plans that enable students to spread out tuition payments over the semester or year, reducing immediate financial burdens. Work-integrated learning opportunities and part-time employment options are available on campus and in local industries, which can supplement students’ income and enhance practical experience critical for a career in wine science. Furthermore, students are advised to explore external funding sources, including industry sponsorships and scholarships specific to the wine and viticulture industry, which supports workforce development in this sector. The university’s comprehensive financial services department provides guidance and counselling to help students navigate their options, understand the application processes, and manage their finances effectively throughout their studies. Overall, the University of Southern Queensland is committed to making education accessible and affordable through various financing solutions tailored to meet the needs of diverse student populations pursuing a Wine Science degree.

The Bachelor of Wine Science at the University of Southern Queensland offers a comprehensive education for students interested in the science and business of wine production. This program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in viticulture, enology, and wine marketing, as well as the broader aspects of wine tourism and sustainability. Students will learn about grape growing, wine making processes, wine analysis, and quality control, enabling them to understand both the scientific and commercial sides of the industry. The curriculum combines practical hands-on experience with theoretical knowledge, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in wineries, vineyards, wine distribution, and related sectors. The program also emphasizes cross-disciplinary understanding, incorporating aspects of business management, environmental sustainability, and wine tourism. Students may have opportunities for internships at wineries or vineyards, allowing them to gain real-world experience and develop professional networks within the global wine industry. The program is suitable for individuals passionate about winemaking and wine sciences, aiming to pursue careers as wine producers, vineyard managers, wine marketers, or wine consultants. Graduates of the Bachelor of Wine Science will acquire skills in wine production, sensory analysis, and industry regulations, which are critical for their success in the competitive wine market. The university leverages its connections with local wineries and industry leaders to enhance the educational experience, often incorporating industry guest lectures and field trips. The degree also prepares students for postgraduate studies or specialist roles within the wine sector, contributing to the sustainable development of wine tourism and agricultural practices. Overall, the Bachelor of Wine Science from the University of Southern Queensland provides a holistic education grounded in science and business, fostering innovation and sustainability within the vibrant wine industry.