Viticulture Associate of Science (AS)
About the Program
The Associate of Science in Viticulture degree prepares students for either entry-level employment or further study in the field of Viticulture, or grape-growing. The Viticulture A.S. includes courses in viticulture and winery technology, science, and general education courses. Students will gain both theoretical knowledge as well as hands-on experience in the college’s onsite Campus Hill Vineyard.
Career Opportunities
California produces 90 percent of the U.S. wine. From established vineyards to new ventures, well-trained wine industry personnel are needed in many positions. Career opportunities related to viticulture include: vineyard manager, vineyard design and development, pest control, irrigation specialist, vineyard crew supervisor, equipment supervisor, quality control, production manager, wine hospitality, grape/juice sales, wine label design and packaging.
Program Outcomes
- Upon completion of the AS in Viticulture, students are able to contribute to the wine grape industry and participate in professional organizations at the local, state-wide, national and/or international levels.
- Upon completion of the AS in Viticulture, students are able to describe the latest technological advances in vineyard practices and incorporate current technology into their farming plans.
- Upon completion of the AS in Viticulture, students are able to identify, plan, and implement sustainable farming practices that will improve fruit quality, provide efficacious pest and disease management, and protect natural resources and the environment.
- Upon completion of the AS in Viticulture, students are able to show leadership capabilities by effectively training others to perform hands-on vineyard tasks.
- Upon completion of the AS in Viticulture, students are able to use proficient knowledge of the seasonal requirements of a working vineyard.
- Upon completion of the AS in Viticulture, students are able to work cooperatively and effectively with winery personnel to determine optimum harvest parameters and coordinate the operations required.
Required Core: (24 Units)
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| VWT 10 | Introduction to Viticulture | 3 |
| VWT 12 | Landscape and Vineyard Soils, Fertilizers, and Irrigation | 3 |
| VWT 20 | Introduction to Enology | 3 |
| VWT 25 | Sensory Analysis of Wines | 3 |
| VWT 31 | Fall Vineyard Operations | 3 |
| VWT 32 | Spring Vineyard Operations | 3 |
| VWT 33 | Summer Viticulture Operations | 1 |
| VWT 35 | Landscape and Vineyard Pest and Disease Management | 3 |
| WRKX 94 | Occupational Work Experience/Internship | 2 |
List A: Select One (4 Units)
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| CHEM 30A | Introductory and Applied Chemistry I | 4 |
| CHEM 31 | Introduction to College Chemistry | 4 |
List B: Select One (3-5 Units)
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| BIO 1A | General Botany | 5 |
| GEOG 1 | Introduction to Physical Geography | 3 |
| GEOG 12 | Geography of California | 3 |
| GEOG 15 | Introduction to GIS | 3 |
List C: Select One (3 Units)
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| VWT 1 | World Wines: New World | 3 |
| VWT 2 | World Wines: Old World | 3 |
| VWT 47 | Wine Regions/Wines of Calif | 3 |
Total Units for the Major: 34 -36
The Associate Degree is conferred upon those students who complete the required 60 or more semester units of the degree pattern with a grade-point average of 2.0 or better, of which 12 units must be earned at Las Positas College. In addition, students must complete a General Education pattern in order to earn a degree: see the Las Positas College General Education Pattern for Associate of Science (AS) Degree, California State University General Education-Breadth, or the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (for CSU) patterns for listing of areas and courses. Double counting courses in GE and the major is permissible. The number of units that may be double counted will depend on the entry point to the degree program, the optional course(s) taken, and the GE pattern selected. Elective units are degree applicable. Consult with an adviser or a counselor to plan the courses necessary to achieve your academic goal.
* Please note, CHEM 31 is recommended for students considering transfer. BIO 30 is recommended for students that plan to take BIO 1A.