Niagara College is expanding access to its School of Wine, Beer and Spirits, launching part-time courses for non-program students this Fall 2025.
Registration is now open until mid-September for select courses from the College’s diploma and certificate programs in Artisan Distilling, Brewmaster and Brewery Operations Management, and Winery and Viticulture Technician, offered through NC’s Part-Time Studies catalogue. While these courses are part of the full-time academic programs, limited seats are being made available to the public for part-time study.
The decision to open select program courses to part-time learners was made in response to ongoing interest from individuals seeking formal study in wine, beer and spirits without pursuing a full-time credential. The courses were carefully selected as suitable options for those who are curious about these subjects and looking to explore them in an accessible way, while still earning full academic credit toward an Ontario College credential.
“We’ve had a lot of demand from the community for opportunities to engage with our programming in wine, beer and spirits on a more flexible basis,” said Maija Saari, Associate Dean of NC’s School of Culinary Arts and School of Wine, Beer and Spirits. “Opening select program courses to part-time learners is a great way to offer a taste of what our full-time programs provide. These courses allow curious individuals to explore their interests and earn full academic credit.”
Courses offer full academic credit toward an Ontario College credential and are designed for professionals, aspiring entrepreneurs, hobbyists and anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of wine, beer and spirits.
Courses offered for Fall 2025 include:
- General Viticulture
- Winemaking I
- Sensory Evaluation of Wines I
- Introduction to Brewing
- Sensory Evaluation of Beer
- Brewing Ingredients and Quality Fundamentals
- Introduction to Sensory Analysis
- The Legal and Regulatory Environment
The courses are offered for full academic credit and will appear on an official Niagara College transcript. Credits earned may be applied toward program credentials should a student choose to pursue a full diploma or certificate in the future.
Course delivery formats include online distance learning, evening and daytime scheduling, as well as immersive, hands-on experiences in the College’s specialized sensory labs, production facilities and on-campus vineyard.
The courses appeal to a wide range of learners, including professionals in the culinary and hospitality sectors, aspiring entrepreneurs, individuals seeking to transition into careers within beverage production, craft brewing, winemaking or distilling, as well as hobbyists and those simply interested in expanding their knowledge.
Registration will remain open until the second week of September, however, space is limited and early registration is recommended. Seat availability may vary depending on full-time enrolment and the delivery method of each course.
NC offers over 30 part-time programs and professional association equivalencies, along with over 100 individual courses across multiple areas of study, designed to provide flexible learning options for students. Courses – from motorcycle training to accounting, design, writing, accounting and much more – are available through various delivery methods, including online and in-person formats, to accommodate diverse learning needs.
To learn more, explore available courses and register, visit: www.niagaracollege.ca/parttimestudies/
