Course Overview
Building on Point Park University's success in brewing and distilling science education, the Winemaking Science Academy is a 10-week, hands-on certificate program designed for aspiring and current winemakers. This unique initiative bridges the gap in regional viticulture education, providing expert instruction, hands-on training and industry connections to prepare students for careers in winemaking.
Students who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion from Point Park University.
Why study winemaking at Point Park?
- Exclusive Learning Opportunity: This is the only academic winemaking program in the Pittsburgh area.
- Hands-On Training: Gain real-world experience in grape selection, fermentation, aging and bottling using professional winemaking equipment.
- Industry Connections: Learn from experienced winemakers and industry professionals through guest lectures and vineyard visits.
- Career Advancement: The course is designed for students, professionals and wine enthusiasts seeking expertise in enology and viticulture.
- Strong Economic Impact: The wine industry is growing, and this program positions graduates for careers in vineyards, wineries and beverage businesses.
2025 Schedule
Registration will open in late June. The class will begin in early September.
Fill out our Request for Information form to be notified when the schedule is confirmed.
Topics and Activities
- Winemaking Fundamentals: Understanding grape biology, fermentation science and microbiology.
- Sensory Evaluation & Tasting: Developing your palate, detecting faults, and assessing wine quality.
- Viticulture Practices: Explore modern challenges in grape cultivation, soil management, and climate adaptation.
- Winemaking Processes: Get hands-on with harvest, crushing, fermentation, and aging techniques. (Our partner Ripepi Vineyard will provide access to harvest, picking up grapes, etc.)
- Equipment & Technology: Learn to operate the tools behind every great wine — from fermentation to bottling.
- Quality Control & Regulations: Gain insights into industry standards, compliance, and safety protocols.
- Regional & Stylistic Variations: Explore how geography, climate, and tradition shape winemaking styles.
- Field Trips & Industry Immersion: Visit local vineyards and wineries to experience winemaking firsthand.
Meet Our Faculty
Jeffrey J. Seaman, M.I.S.
An experienced winemaker and enology-certified professional, he leads the Winemaking Science Academy with a deep passion for both education and the craft of winemaking. With strong ties to the local wine industry, he brings real-world expertise and valuable industry connections into the classroom, enriching the learning experience.
Tuition
Tuition: $2,000
- Hands-on instruction led by a certified enology professional with industry experience
- Access to professional equipment, including fermentation tanks, carboys, wine press, bottle corker, bottling line, barrel aging setups and lab testing
- In accordance with our license from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) regulations, participants are required to purchase their own winemaking ingredients (such as grapes, juice, yeast, additives, etc). These ingredients are essential for the hands-on components of the course. To streamline the process, ingredient costs are included in the program tuition and will be coordinated through the instructor.
Additional Costs:
- Participants are responsible for their own parking and transportation costs.
Scholarships are not currently available for this program. If you are an individual or business interested in sponsoring one, contact the School of Continuing and Professional Studies at SCPS@PointPark.Edu or call 412-392-6113.
Our Partners
Thank you to our local partners who make this class a hands-on, immersive experience:
Contact Us
For more information, contact the School of Continuing and Professional Studies at SCPS@PointPark.Edu or call 412-392-6113.