KPU Brewing has its own state-of-the-art, award-winning teaching brewery
Our program has a strong emphasis on brewing science and quality control
Program Details
Our two-year Diploma in Brewing and Brewery Operations teaches you the science, production and business of brewing craft beer. The program combines a solid foundation in microbiology and brewing science with hands-on practical learning in our state-of-the-art, two-hectolitre pilot brewery, located on our Langley campus.
Small class sizes ensure you get the one-on-one support you need from our instructors, who have decades of brewing and beer industry experience. With their help, you'll develop critical skills and training with brewing equipment and technologies, recipe formulation, sensory evaluation, brewing chemistry and microbiology, production and packaging, sales and promotion, and management and supervisory skills.
Brewing is a physically demanding, hands-on career. You're expected to wear appropriate protective clothing and safety gear at all times inside the brewery and science labs. Breweries can be hot or cold, wet, and noisy environments. You should expect to be on your feet for six to eight hours a day and should be capable of lifting 25kg or moving 50kg.
Tuition
Tuition will vary by course and program. Our tuition estimator will give you an approximate cost of the tuition for your favoured program.
Fees
There are mandatory student fees that you are subject too. In addition to tuition and fees, there maybe other fees and program costs to consider.
Student Awards and Financial Assistance
Student Awards and Financial Assistance provides information about student loans, grants, and other forms of financial aid offered by KPU and our external partners.
Program Summary
Tuition
Our tuition estimator will give you an approximate cost of the tuition for our programs
Delivery Style
In person at KPU’s award-winning brewery in Langley, BC
Length
Choose from full-time, part-time or short courses
Availability
Early-bird deadline is March 1; late deadline is July 1
Applications Open
Oct. 1 each year (early-bird deadline is March 1; late deadline is July 7)
Learn more about the course structure:
Already accepted?
Visit our registration information page for Fall 2025 Year 1 and Year 2 students.
Great beer doesn't just happen.
It's about pushing boundaries, challenging traditions, and constantly advancing in the pursuit of quality and flavour. True craftsmanship isn't left to chance; it's built through curiosity, science, and hands-on experience.
KPU's Brewing and Brewery Operations program is the only program of its kind in British Columbia. Our students and brewery have won numerous awards at provincial, national, and international competitions, and KPU's teaching brewery is the only one in Canada to win Brewery of the Year.
Hands-On
Award-Winning
Science-Based
Flexible Options
Need More Info?
Interested in this program but still not sure? Get all your questions answered about the program, courses, fees, how to apply and more by attending an information session. For additional information check out our program FAQ.
Career Outcomes
The brewing industry plays a key role in Canada’s economy and local communities.
Graduates of KPU’s Brewing and Brewery Operations program work in breweries, distilleries, cideries, beverage R&D, quality control, product development, and the broader food and beverage industry in roles that:
- Brew and Manage Production
Operate, monitor, and optimize production processes from grain to glass. - Ensure Quality and Safety
Conduct lab testing, quality control, and microbiology analysis to maintain high standards, especially with the increase in low- and no-alcohol products. - Manage Brewery Operations
Oversee supply chains, equipment, inventory, and regulatory compliance. - Develop New Products
Experiment with recipes, ingredients, and flavours to innovate in beer, spirits, cider, and other low- or non-alcoholic beverages. - Sales, Marketing & Brand Management
Translate technical knowledge into roles that connect products with consumers. - Consult & Educate
Support breweries, restaurants, or educational programs with expertise in brewing science and operations. - Career-Ready Skills
Graduate with the practical experience and scientific knowledge needed for a career in brewing or the broader food and beverage industry — locally or internationally.
Career Outlook
Beer is big business in Canada, creating opportunities across a wide-range of industries. Whether it’s farmers growing ingredients, truck drivers keeping supply chains moving, designers shaping brand and product identities, or hospitality teams serving customers, the brewing industry brings together a diverse network of skilled professionals from coast to coast.
88% of Beer Purchased in Canada is Made Locally
24,000 Direct Brewing Jobs
149,000 Jobs Supported Across the Value Chain
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Why Go to "Beer School?"
Go beyond your passion for craft beer and turn it into a career. We created this program to meet the demand for knowledgeable, trained brewers educated in brewing science in the beer industry.
Your formal education in brewing and brewery operations at KPU shows potential employers a strong commitment to a career in the brewing industry. Add to that the hands-on experience and practical skills gained through the program and you will be prepared for any challenge in the industry.
Student Success
Iain Sutherland
"My time and what I learned in the KPU brewing program gave me a fantastic base of knowledge that I am continuing to build on every day. I still refer to my notes from classes as a head brewer."
Ted Fine
"My KPU Diploma helps in so many ways: brewing theory and science, business best practices, marketing and sales, people management. Since my work experience to this point was more actual brewing and less business focused, it really helps having schooling in the latter three points."
Learn more about KPU Brewing Alumni
Continuing and Professional Studies
Want to see what brewing is all about? Or want need to brush up on your biology or chemistry? Our Continuing and Professional Studies courses offer you the opportunity to do some prep work before the start of classes or learn more about brewing before you apply.
Visit the Brewing Continuing Professional Studies page for the latest continuing studies offerings from the KPU Brewing department.
