New Zealand Certificate in Brewing (Level 4)

Our Central campus located in the heart of Central Otago is the ultimate location to study in a natural paradise. Here you can learn the art of brewing, in our brand new, purpose-built brewing facility.

This exciting new programme is the first in a suite of three that we offer, all leading to New Zealand qualifications. Learning the art and science of brewing from the ground up, immerse yourself in a practical learning experience which will involve the theory of the brewing process, technical brewing plans, production processes, volumes and of course, hands-on brewing of beer (including Pilsner, Ale, Lager and other craft styles).   

Work experience is a core part of this programme and will not only add to your practical experience but will help you make important connections in industry.

Whether you are new to the industry or a long-time home brewer, graduates of this programme will have the skills and knowledge required to work as a brewer in a commercial brewing operation under broad supervision. 

Entry requirements 

• Open entry. 
• If English is not your first language, you must provide:
  • New Zealand University Entrance OR
  • Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 with no individual band score lower than 5.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
  • Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).

If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.

Other requirements 

• Learners who will be aged under 18 during activities that require the tasting of alcohol will not be allowed to participate in this activity without first producing a signed guardian consent form.  

Your workload

You will study for 34.5 hours per week. 

You will study 

• Brewing Basics (Level 4, 15 credits)
• Introduction to Practical Brewing (Level 4, 15 credits)
• Fundamentals of Brewing Equipment and Processes (Level 4, 15 credits)
• Practical 1 (Level 4, 15 credits)
• Fundamentals of Brewery Operations (Level 4, 15 credits)
• Quality and Safety in Brewing (Level 4, 15 credits)
• Regulatory Requirements in Brewing (Level 4, 15 credits)
• Practical 2 (Level 4, 15 credits) 

Graduates will be able to carry out brewing quality assurance and production processes under broad supervision. Graduates of this qualification will have the skills and knowledge required to work as a brewer in a commercial brewing operation, under broad supervision.

Additional costs

You will need to purchase some uniform and safety equipment at an approximate cost of $150.  

Student loans and allowances

Student loans and allowances are for domestic students who have lived in New Zealand for three years. For information about student loans and allowances please visit the Studylink website. It is important to apply for your student loan/allowance at the same time as you apply for this programme, due to the length of time Studylink take to process. Loan/allowance applications can be cancelled at any time if you decide to withdraw your programme application or if it is unsuccessful. 

Recognition of Prior Learning 

If you already have extensive knowledge and skills gained from practical experience in this area, enquire about our recognition of prior learning process at Capable NZ. You may have already gained credits towards this qualification in the course of your life. www.capablenz.ac.nz