Brewing and Distilling Heriot-Watt University

Overview

The Brewing and Distilling MSc at Heriot-Watt University provides students with the advanced scientific knowledge and technical expertise required to excel in the malting, brewing, and distilling sectors. This programme bridges the gap between fundamental science and industrial application, ensuring graduates are prepared for the complexities of modern beverage production. Students explore the entire production chain, from raw material selection to the final packaging and marketing of alcoholic drinks.

The curriculum is designed to address the emerging challenges and characteristics of the global drinks industry. By studying at a postgraduate level, you will gain a deep understanding of the chemical, biochemical, and microbiological processes essential to fermentation and distillation.

Why Brewing and Distilling at Heriot-Watt University?

Heriot-Watt University has a prestigious history in this field, with teaching dating back to 1903. Students benefit from the world-renowned International Centre for Brewing and Distilling (ICBD), a unique facility that maintains robust links with the global malting and distilling industries. This partnership ensures that the research-active academic staff provide training that is both innovative and industry-focused.

The university offers exceptional hands-on learning environments, including an on-site brewery, a distillery, and a rectification laboratory. These facilities allow students to apply theoretical concepts in a practical setting, gaining experience with process technology and flavour assessment. Furthermore, the ICBD is a hub for excellence in five core research themes: raw materials, malting, process improvement, sustainability, and biochemistry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 28952 per year
• National fee: GBP 12744 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of mandatory core subjects and optional units that allow for specialisation in areas such as renewable energy or food processing. Modules may include:

• Cereals, Malting and Mashing
• Wort Boiling and Fermentation
• Distilling and Whisky Maturation
• Filtration and Packaging
• Research and Professional Practice
• Beverage Microbiology and Biochemistry
• Process Technology
• Food and Beverage Toxicology
• Chemistry of Food

Careers with Brewing and Distilling

Graduates of this programme are highly sought after by brewing and distilling companies of all sizes, from international corporations to craft startups. The broad spectrum of expertise gained allows for diverse career paths in production management, technical sales, and marketing. Many alumni also find success in quality control, research and development, or consultancy roles within the allied industries.

The integration of business and management units ensures that students are well-equipped for professional services and managerial positions. Whether pursuing a career in malting, production, or the commercial side of the beverage industry, the reputation of the International Centre for Brewing and Distilling provides a significant advantage in the global job market.

Accreditation

The Institute of Brewing and Distilling (IBD) offer MSc graduates the opportunity for exemption from the Diploma in Brewing, or Diploma in Distilling should they, later in their career, wish to undertake the IBD Master Brewer or Master Distiller qualification through the IBD.