Microbrewery Operations Program

This program will guide students through every aspect of licensing, costing, financing and operating a brewery project. By graduation, students will have completed a business plan and will have the knowledge to succeed in this growing industry and tackle any problem that comes their way.

Students will meet owners/operators of local nano-breweries, collaborate on brews and gain a firsthand view of successful, small-scale microbrewing. This program also covers the logistics of operating a tasting room and how to maximize profits.

 This program is currently not available to international applicants.
Where: Various locations
Length: 25 weeks
Delivery: On-campus and Digital (Blended)



  • MBR 010 - Brewery Management Program – Online Curriculum – 75 hours
  • MBR 012 - Brewery Management Program – In-Person Curriculum – 48 hours

Completion Requirements

  • Students must successfully complete each core course.

Admission Requirements

Must be 19+.  Prospective students should be able to lift up to 20 kilograms. General physical fitness is recommended.

How to Apply

  1. Complete the Continuing Education Application for Admission.  Forms can be dropped off or mailed to the Student Services office at your local campus, along with payment for your course fees. If you have questions, please call 250-334-5005.

Before Classes Begin

It is recommended that Applicants to the program or those interested in the program participate in an information session.  Registration is free and now available either online or in-person at your local NIC campus.

Accessible Learning

Making education accessible for those with a documented disability is a key priority for NIC. We offer a wide range of services, supports and resources for students. For more information visit: Accessible Learning Services.

Program Highlights

This program will prepare students for an exciting and rewarding career in the Craft Brewing and Malting Industry, or how to start their own successful craft brewery.  Participants will gain hands-on experience working with industry experts developing and mastering brewing recipes, handling and operating commercial brewing equipment, and learning the economic fundamentals of operating a successful brewing business. 

Career Opportunities

In 2019, the BC craft brewing industry generated $303 million in revenues and provided more than 4,500 direct jobs. Craft breweries are operating in 60 communities across the province. The craft brewing industry supports BC agriculture industry by purchasing grain, hops and fruit. as well as contributing to tourism and manufacturing.

Upon completion of this program, you will have the qualifications for a wide variety of beer industry positions, including:

  • Brewer
  • Head Brewer
  • Production Assistant
  • Brewery Lab Assistant
  • Cellar-person
  • Craft beer bartender

Successful completion of this program will also give you the skills you need to contest various craft brewing and malting industry certifications such as:

  • Certified Beer Server" Cicerone online exam
  • the Beer Judge Certificate Program (BJCP) "Beer Judge Entrance Exam" online
  • Institute of Brewing and Distilling “Foundation in Brewing and Packaging” available through BCIT in Burnaby

Supply list

Please come to the first day of class with comfortable clothes and shoes.

Part 1: Online classes are scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 6:30-9:30 pm.

Part 2: In-community practicum courses scheduled on Tuesday evenings and select Sundays during the day-time.