MICRO-CREDENTIAL: BREWING & DISTILLING

The Irish drinks industry has seen rapid growth over the past decade with whiskey, gin and beer enjoying a major expansion in production. Given the successful trajectory of this sector, Maynooth University are running an Industry led course in Brewing & Distilling Science. The Department of Chemistry has been analysing Irish whiskies over the past number of years, and this coupled with their engagement with beverage industries provides the perfect platform for the co-creation of a course in Brewing & Distilling (B&D).

The micro-credential was developed after extensive consultation with B&D industry professionals, who recognised a strong demand for the creation of an analytical course to support the craft brewing and traditional whiskey industry. The Chemistry Department held a one-day consultation event which provided an excellent opportunity for professionals in B&D to contribute to the development of this exciting new micro-credential. Very positive feedback was received from this event, providing an additional impetus to create a course in this discipline:

“This proposed course of study and associated micro qualification will be very welcome additions to the Irish Distilling and Brewing worlds and in particular to the craft and micro distillery and brewery industries.

It will be of particular interest to industry new-entrants and start-ups. It will also be of interest to Irish Whiskey and Spirits Aficionados as private individuals who want to improve their knowledge and understanding of the mysteries of brewing and distilling”.

This is a focused analytical course which will provide an overview into the science behind key analytical skills, how to interpret scientific results and provide an opportunity to practice and develop these key skills hands-on in a modern laboratory facility. It is the first micro-credential to be offered in B&D by a University in Ireland and participants will obtain a 5 Credit Certificate in Continuing Education from Maynooth University on completion. This course will run part-time over one semester commencing in March 2023 and will last 12 weeks. The lectures will be delivered under a blended approach (online and in-person). The laboratory practical’s classes are compulsory and will take place for 3 consecutive days in June.

There will also be a career development lecture by the Institute of Brewing & Distilling IBD (Irish Section) which will provide information on their Early Careers Network programme. The IBD is a network of industry professionals, sharing their passion, organizing events, technical tours, and connecting people from the industry. The Early Careers Members Network aims to give students and those starting out in the industry the chance to make useful contacts, develop skills and knowledge and kick-start their professional and personal development.