Last modified: 21. January 2026

Master’s Program in Viticulture and Oenology Engineering

Program Leader: Prof. Diána Nyitrainé Sárdy, PhD
Duration: 4 semesters
Qualification Awarded: Viticulture and Oenology Engineer (MSc)
Language of Instruction: Hungarian and English
Mode of Study: Full-time or part-time
Tuition Fee: 3000 EUR / semester
Financing: State-funded or self-financed
Credits Required: 120 ECTS

Program Overview

The Master’s Program in Viticulture and Oenology Engineering aims to train highly qualified professionals with comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge in grape production, winemaking, and related scientific fields. The program integrates foundations from the natural and social sciences with the latest scientific and technological developments, as well as the cultural, economic, and market-related dimensions of the wine sector.

Students gain in-depth expertise in vineyard and winery operations, modern technologies, quality management, sustainability, and innovation. The curriculum places special emphasis on understanding the traditions of Hungarian viticulture, the structure and dynamics of the domestic and international wine markets, and the broader European and global context of the wine industry.

Graduates are equipped to apply their knowledge in international professional environments and to pursue successful careers across the entire grape and wine sector. The program also provides a solid foundation for doctoral (PhD) studies and research-oriented career paths.

Admission Requirements

For international applicants:

• A BSc/MSc or equivalent degree in agriculture, life sciences, or a related field.
• Proof of English proficiency (minimum TOEFL iBT 65 / IELTS 5.5 / Cambridge CAE), or completion of at least two years of higher education in an English-language program.
• Applicants completing their degree by July 31, 2026, are also eligible to apply.

Curriculum Structure

Core Subjects:

• Interdisciplinary basic disciplines for the profession of viticulture and oenology (molecular biology-genetics, economics, business management and law; basic knowledge of facility planning and landscape design, farm management, wine marketing, product and project management, professional foreign language, philosophy, ethics, organisational and work psychology, research methodology

• Viticultural disciplines (grape breeding and genetics, grape and wine cultural history, varietal evaluation, world wine regions, quality viticulture, production development)
• Oenological disciplines (oenological chemistry and microbiology, wine processing, classical principles and practices of wine treatment, wine processing in different wine regions of the world, innovative wine-making trends and techniques, wine analysis, sensory evaluation of wines)

Specializations: (the qualification requirements are fulfilled by choosing two of the following three specialisations)

• Sensory Analysis of Wine
• Viticultural Technology, Plant Protection
• Vineyard Manager, Vineyard Design

Practical Training:

• Minimum of 5 credits of practical training outside the university
• 4-week internship in viticulture or oenology production or administration

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will develop:

• A thorough understanding of grape and wine production, marketing, and international trends.
• Expertise in wine chemistry, microbiology, sensory evaluation, and innovative production practices.
• Strong management, problem-solving, and leadership skills relevant to agricultural and environmental contexts.
• The ability to conduct independent research and apply scientific results to industry challenges.
• Awareness of legal, health, and environmental standards governing the wine sector.

Career Opportunities

• Modern production management, organization, distribution
• Consulting for sectoral interest groups
• Sectoral research and development, including project management
• International trade; establishing and operating production and research cooperatives
• Planning and implementation of EU programs
• Higher education and foreign-language vocational training
• Trade press and professional media
• Management of professional information networks and service providers

This program equips students with advanced knowledge and practical skills for a successful international career in the global wine industry, as well as for further academic studies in viticulture and oenology.

https://ed.uni-mate.hu/en/msc-in-viticulture-and-oenology-engineering