How to become a viticulturist

Is becoming a viticulturist right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do viticulturists do?

Still unsure if becoming a viticulturist is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a viticulturist or another similar career!

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How to become a Viticulturist

Here’s an overview of the pathway to a successful career in viticulture:

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Start with a Bachelor’s Degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Sciences, or a related discipline. Some universities offer specialized programs in viticulture and enology (the study of winemaking).

Important subjects include plant biology, soil science, pest management, plant pathology, irrigation, and agricultural chemistry.

Gain Practical Experience
Work or intern at vineyards, wineries, or agricultural research centers to get hands-on experience with grape growing, pruning, pest control, and harvest processes.

Build Industry Connections
Network with professionals in the wine and grape growing industry by joining viticulture or agricultural associations and attending conferences or workshops.

Pursue Advanced Education (Optional)
To specialize further or move into consulting, research, or academic roles, a relevant master’s or doctoral degree can be beneficial.

Continuing Education
Ongoing learning is important due to evolving technologies, climate challenges, and industry trends.

Certifications
While certifications often vary by country and region, they can improve job prospects, operational efficiency, and market access, and sometimes help meet regulatory requirements. These are some notable credentials:

  • ASHS Certifications – The American Society for Horticultural Science administers these professional designations: ASHS Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH), ASHS Associate Professional Horticulturist (APH), ASHS Practicing Professional Horticulturist (PPH).
  • SSSA Certifications – The Soil Science Society of America offers the Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) and the Associate Professional Soil Scientist (APSS) credentials.
  • Certified IPM Technician – Integrated Pest Management (IPM) certifications, often required by regulatory agencies, are offered by entities like the IPM Institute and various extension programs administered by universities and government agencies.
  • Sustainability in Practice (SIP) Certified – This sustainable certification program for winegrowers and winemakers addresses the 3 Ps of sustainability – people, planet, prosperity – ensuring that both natural and human resources are protected.
  • Certified Pesticide Applicator – Many regions require orchard farmers who apply pesticides or herbicides to be licensed or certified to ensure safe and responsible chemical use. Contact the Pesticide Safety Education Program in your state or territory for information on training and study materials.
  • USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) Organic Certification – This USDA certification is for farms that meet strict organic farming standards in the US.
  • Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Handling Practices (GHP) Certification – This certification, administered by the USDA National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, validates safety in growing, harvesting, and storage. It is valid for one year from the date of audit.
  • Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Certification – Offered by various food safety organizations, the HACCP credential demonstrates knowledge of this globally recognized food safety management system that ensures food safety throughout the food supply chain.
  • Safety and Equipment Operation Certifications — Various viticulture equipment suppliers and local grape grower associations offer training in safely operating vineyard machinery and following workplace safety standards.

Professional Organizations
In addition to the certifying bodies referenced above in the Certifications section, the following organizations also support the viticulture community by providing resources, networking opportunities, research updates, and industry advocacy:

  • American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) — ASEV focuses on advancing research and education in grape growing and winemaking, primarily in the US.
  • International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) — This is a global body that promotes scientific and technical knowledge related to viticulture and enology.
  • International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS) – ISHS provides a global platform for research and collaboration in horticulture.
  • Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology (ASVO) — ASVO serves viticulturists and winemakers in Australia with conferences, publications, and training.
  • Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) — While broader in scope, IMW includes viticulture as part of its wine education programs.
  • Local and Regional Viticulture Associations — Many wine regions have their own organizations that support grape growers with local expertise and events.