Certificates

Two brewery workers in flannel shirts inspecting a glass of golden beer in a brewery.

Department of Biology + Continuing Education | University of Texas at Arlington

Turn Curiosity into Craft

Discover what really happens between grain and glass! UTA’s Brewing & Fermentation Certificate combines accessible science, hands-on experience, and industry insight and you don’t need a science background to succeed.

Why Choose This Program

Designed for hobbyists, career changers, and curious learners alike, this certificate blends theory and practice so participants learn both how fermentation works and why.
Participants gain:

  • Foundational brewing and fermentation knowledge
  • Hands-on lab experience
  • Sensory and quality-control skills
  • Industry connections through internships

Who Its For

  • Craft beverage enthusiasts
  • Career explorers
  • Entrepreneurs
  • Hospitality professionals
  • Science-curious learners

If you’re interested in fermentation, you belong here.

Program Structure

The Science of Brewing Introductory Course

Length: ~5 weeks (suggested pacing)
Format: Fully online, asynchronous

Build a strong foundation in brewing science, ingredients, microbiology, chemistry, and production processes. No prior science experience required. Courses are self-paced and flexible.

Advanced Courses

Length: ~3 weeks each (suggested pacing)
Format: Hybrid

Each course includes:

  1. Self-paced online modules
  2. In-person hands-on session at the UTA campus in Arlington at a time that fits your schedule

Courses include:

  • Fermentation Science
  • Brewing Lab
  • Sensory Evaluation, Quality Assurance & Product Design

Flexible Scheduling

Suggested timelines help guide progress, but they are not strict deadlines. Participants can move at a pace that fits their schedule while coordinating hands-on sessions with partner facilities and the program director.

Group of brewery staff in work clothes and caps examining a bottling production line.

Industry Internship Partners

Participants complete experiential learning hours with regional professionals, including:

  • Martin House Brewing Co.
  • Lakewood Brewing Co.
  • Dr. Jeckyll's Beer Lab
  • Austin Beerworks
  • Westlake Brewing Co.
  • Oil Horse Brewing Co.
  • Southern Roots Brewing Co.

These partnerships provide real exposure to professional brewing environments, equipment, workflows, and career pathways.


Learn More

Visit the UTA Continuing Education website for details about the program including courses, cost, and how to enroll.

Explore media coverage of the program:

Questions?

Dr. Dylan Parks
Fermentation Sciences Program Director
UTA Biology Department
dylan.parks@uta.edu

Dylan wearing a blue plaid button-down shirt.

Dr. Dylan Parks is an Associate Professor of Instruction and Director of Fermentation Sciences Programs in the Biology Department at UTA. He earned his PhD in Quantitative Biology with a focus in Microbiology and has professional experience working in the craft brewing industry. His teaching and research interests include fermentation science, microbial symbiosis, and health sciences.

Start Brewing Your Future

Build skills, confidence, and real experience in fermentation science in a flexible, welcoming learning environment.

Enroll today!