What type of work would I do if I studied Viticulture?
Viticulture is the science of growing and cultivating grapes. Those who study viticulture learn the skills needed to own and operate a vineyard or to work at a commercial vineyard.
What type of degree would I earn at Missouri State University-West Plains?
Students will earn an Associate of Applied Science in Viticulture degree. Topics of study include current practices for establishing a commercial vineyard while maintaining its health and productivity. Classroom and practical field experiences focus on providing the underlying principles of managing a vineyard through each seasonal change in order to develop an understanding of current best practices. Students also can choose to complete a certificate program in viticulture. While the associate’s degree combines practical experience with general education courses, the certificate program focuses on just the practical experience required for viticulture careers.
Why should I major in Viticulture?
The viticulture and enology (winemaking) industries continue to grow and thrive in the U.S. According to the WineAmerica website (www.wineamerica.org), the U.S. grape crop has more than tripled in 21 years from $955 million in 1985 to almost $3.5 billion in 2006. Winegrape production has increased far faster than the overall grape crop and now represents almost two thirds of the total crop. Grapes are the highest value crop in the nation and the sixth largest crop overall, and grapes produced in agricultural areas for wine and juice now make up 67% of the entire national crop, according to WineAmerica’s website.
What salary can I expect to earn with this degree?
Faculty within this degree program estimate that, in the private sector, a vineyard manager who oversees 100 acres of grapes in the Midwest can expect to start at $35,000. Experience and incentives would add to that salary.