Brewing and Distilling

Heriot-Watt University is at the forefront of Brewing and Distilling in the UK.

Our four-year undergraduate degree is organised in co-operation with senior representatives of the brewing, malting and distilling industries who are members of Heriot-Watt University’s International Centre for Brewing and Distilling.

The International Centre for Brewing and Distilling is a unique teaching and research facility on our Edinburgh campus. It is home to industry-standard equipment for brewing, distilling and malting, as well as industry-shaping expertise in the form of our academic experts.

BSc Brewing and Distilling provides students with a full understanding of the science, technology and processes involved, from cereal farming right through to bottling and packaging.

Graduates of this programme leave Heriot-Watt University with detailed knowledge of related science and technology, along with the practical skills to become leaders within the food and drink sector.

Successful completion allows exemption from the first professional examinations of the Institute of Brewing and Distilling.

Careers Heriot-Watt has an outstanding reputation for expertise in Brewing and Distilling, with graduates at the forefront of an ever-changing industry.

The International Centre for Brewing and Distilling was formed in 1990 and provides a strong partnership between academia and industry, ensuring our graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge required for a successful career.

Our graduates are employed in a wide range of roles, from plant managers and operators to marketing and sales. Many work at the forefront of innovation, launching new breweries and distilleries, or taking up senior roles in established companies.

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