Master of Wine Technology and Viticulture

Course K04-DO (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008. Search for this in the current handbook

Year and Campus: 2008
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Level: Graduate/Postgraduate

Contact

Dookie Campus Course Enquiries Ms Jacinta Way Phone: +61 (03) 5833 9292 Fax: + 61 (03) 5833 9201 Email: jway@uinimelb.edu.au Course Coordinator Mr Geoff Bath Email: gbath@unimelb.edu.au Phone: +61 3 5833 9212
Course Overview: The course has been developed for employees in the viticulture and/or oenology sectors of the Wine Industry or people who are establishing or operating their own vineyard and/or winery.
The first year of study introduces students to the science of viticulture and wine, as well as reviewing the Australian Wine Industry's position in the World wine scene. An integrated approach to viticulture and oenology exposes students to all operations undertaken throughout the yearly cycle on a vineyard and in a winery.
The second year combines advanced studies in viticulture and oenology with a special investigatory subject allowing students to further explore specific areas of interest within the Wine Industry.
The third year allows students to refine their viticulture and wine production skills and knowledge, as well as managing the human resources associated with operating a winegrowing enterprise. For students wishing to pursue a career in grape or wine research, the opportunity exists to undertake a major research project.
Objectives:
  • to understand and utilise the principles of chemistry and microbiology as they apply to grape production and wine making;
  • to compare and analyse the wine production regions and styles within Australia and internationally;
  • devise, improve and implement integrative management practices and techniques for the production of quality grapes and wine;
  • to critically analyse and modify wine quality using chemical, sensory and blending techniques;
  • to develop appropriate viticultural and oenological responses to changing biophysical, economic and social conditions that impact on the wine industry;
  • to lead and manage in complex and dynamic wine business environments; and,
  • to foster discussion, debate and exchange of ideas on wine industry topics.
Subject Options:

Master of Wine Technology and Viticulture

The course comprises three years distance education-based study including residential workshops at Dookie campus. First Year 208 811 Concepts in Viticulture and Wine Science 208 722 Financial Management for Agribusiness 208 812 Winegrowing 208 821 Australian Wine - A World Perspective Second Year 208 813 Winegrowing Operations 208 815 Special Studies in Viticulture or Oenology 208 822 Managing Grapevine Physiology 208 823 Advanced Oenology Third Year 208 824 Wine Science 208 814 Wine Technology and 208 723 Human Resource Management 208 825 Advanced Viticulture Techniques or 208 826 Wine Industry Project
Subject
Study Period Commencement:
Credit Points:
Semester 1
12.50
Not offered in 2008
12.50
Not offered in 2008
12.50
Semester 2
12.50
Semester 2
12.50
Semester 1, Semester 2
25
Entry Requirements:

i. The Selection Committee will evaluate the applicant's ability to pursue successfully the course using the following criteria:

  • The minimum entry requirement is an undergraduate degree at pass level plus a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience (eg relevant industry experience in the professional and/or managerial aspects of viticulture and/or wine production: or,
  • Successfull completion of the Graduate Diploma of Wine Technology and Viticulture; or,
  • Successful completion of the Graduate Certificate of Wine Technology and Viticulture with an average grade of 65% or higher.

ii. The Secelection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and call for referee reports and employer references to elucidate any of the matters referred to above.

Completion of the Graduate Certificate of Wine Technology and Viticulture gives advanced standing of 50 points into the Master of Wine Technolgy and Viticulture. Completion of the Graduate Diploma of Wine Technology and Viticulture gives advanced standing of 100 points into the Master of Wine Technology and Viticulture. Students with an honours degree (or equivilent) from a cognate discipline may apply for credit in some or all of the subjects offered at the Graduate Certificate level.

Core Participation Requirements: It is University policy to take all steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. This course requires all students to enrol in subjects where they must actively and safely contribute to laboratory activities and field trips. Students who feel their disability will impact on meeting this requirement are encouraged to discuss this matter with the Subject Coordinator and Disability Liaison Unit.
Further Study:

Phd Studies:

The Faculaty of Land and Food Resources supervises Doctoral research in this area. Three years full time or part-time equivalent.
Graduate Attributes: In addition to learning specific technical skills and knowledge that will assist graduate students in their future careers in the wine, viticulture or associated industries, in this course students will develop generic skills and attributes that will assist them in their chosen career path. These include:an advanced understanding of the changing knowledge base in the specialist area;an ability to evaluate and synthesise the research and professional literature in the discipline;advanced skills and techniques applicable to the discipline;well-developed problem-solving abilities in the discipline area, characterised by flexibility of approach;advanced competencies in areas of professional expertise and/or scholarship;a capacity to articulate their knowledge and understanding in oral and written presentations;an advanced understanding of the international context and sensitivities of the specialist area;an appreciation of the design, conduct and reporting of original research;a capacity to manage competing demands on time, including self-directed project work;a profound respect for truth and intellectual integrity, and for the ethics of scholarship;an appreciation of the ways in which advanced knowledge equips the student to offer leadership in the specialist area;the capacity to value and participate in projects which require team-work;an understanding of the significance and value of their knowledge to the wider community (including business and industry); a capacity to engage where appropriate with issues in contemporary society; and where appropriate, advanced working skills in the application of computer systems and software and a receptiveness to the opportunities offered by new technologies.
Generic Skills:
  • A profound respect for truth, intellectual and professional integrity, and the
    ethics of scholarship
  • Capacity for independent critical thought, rational inquiry and self-directed
    learning and research
  • An ability to derive, interpret and analyse social, technical or economic
    information from primary and other sources
  • Awareness of and ability to utilise appropriate communication technology and methods
    for the storage, management and analysis of data
  • Capacity for creativity and innovation, through the application of skills and knowledge
  • Ability to integrate information across a relevant discipline to solve problems in
    applied situations
  • Highly developed computer - based skills to allow for effective on-line learning and
    communication.
  • Highly developed written communication skills to allow informed dialogue with
    individuals and groups from industry, government and the community
  • Highly developed oral communication skills to allow informed dialogue and liaison
    with individuals and groups from industry, government and the community.
  • Appreciation of social and cultural diversity from a regional to a global context
  • Ability to participate effectively as a member of a team
  • Ability to plan work, use time effectively and manage small projects
Links to further information: www.wine.unimelb.edu.au

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