Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management Program
(Postgraduate)
(H414)

2022-20232023-2024
  • Program Name:
    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management
  • Code: H414
  • Credential:
    Ontario College Graduate Certificate
  • Method of Study:
    Full-time
  • Duration:
    3 semesters
  • Centre:
  • School: Hospitality & Tourism Management
  • Location: St. James Campus
  • Starting Months: September
  • Domestic Tuition:
    $7,083.00 *
  • International Tuition:
    $27,024.00 **
  • Experiential Learning:

    We believe in learning by doing, and that is why we have incorporated work-integrated learning opportunities into all CHCA programs.

  • Winter 2023 Delivery:
    Semester 2: On Campus
  • Spring 2023 Delivery:
    Semester 3: Co-op

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

Do you want to be a wine, spirits and beer professional? Then realize your potential through our specialized postgraduate program. This program provides a distinct opportunity to learn from the best. A faculty team with a reputation for excellence supports our students. Our faculty are connected to local, national and internationally recognized industry leaders. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, George Brown puts you at the centre of the hospitality industry in Canada.

Full Description

Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management is a one-year, three-semester postgraduate program developed for hospitality diploma and degree graduates, and industry professionals seeking an advanced level of learning focused on all aspects of the wine, spirits and beer business.

In our state-of-the-art tasting labs, students will explore and experience global beverages and their relationship to business, cuisine, culture and lifestyle.

This program will provide you with an advanced level of knowledge in beer, wine, spirits and mixology, and also teach you essential business skills such as financial management, organizational behaviour and strategic marketing – all vital to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace.

Successful graduates will earn three additional certifications: Wine & Spirit Education Trust® (WSET®) Level 2, and Prud’homme Beer Certification® Levels 1 & 2. Students will also have an opportunity to earn the WSET 3 if the final exam is fully passed. These certifications are built into the program curriculum, allowing students to earn additional credentials as well as their Ontario College Graduate Certificate.

Our curriculum prepares you to be industry-ready for the most demanding beverage positions with product knowledge, experiential learning and business acumen.

Your Field Education Options

This program provides a mandatory 14-week externship placement. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed work experience opportunities, which they believe will provide the learning experiences they value and meet the learning outcomes of the program. This valuable work experience can be added to your resumé.

CHCA students can also participate in several short study abroad opportunities. Our options change often, but in recent years have included France, Scotland, Spain and trips across Canada. Some trips are purely experiential learning, while others provide you with the opportunity to receive credit for a course in your program. When international travel allows, CHCA students can participate in study abroad experiences. 

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Manage different departments within food-and-beverage-centred or sales environments using product knowledge, menu development and business acumen skills.
  2. Position products appropriately in the market using established techniques in wine merchandising, product pricing, labelling, branding, advertising, promotions, marketing, public relations, media relations and consumer behaviour in the wine industry.
  3. Interpret import and export regulations and recognize opportunities and challenges within the business structures of the wine industry.
  4. Manage and control different aspects of wine-related enterprises to make effective decisions regarding finance, accounting, budget planning, costing, taxation systems and pricing structures in the wine industry, using analytical and synthesis skills.
  5. Implement and develop leadership and human resources skills required in the beverage business, which include recruitment, motivational strategies, resolution of labour-relations issues and the management of related challenges and responsibilities, including culturally sensitive material.
  6. Use current and relevant business strategies to facilitate a sustainable hospitality entity.

Courses

Required Courses

SEMESTER 1

Code Course Name
HOST 1141 Intermediate Wine – WSET Level 2
HOST 1142 Human Resources Practices
HOST 1143 Strategic Marketing for the Beverage Industry
HOST 1144 Beer School: Level 1 & 2 Prud'homme Beer Certification
HOST 1154 Financial Beverage Management

SEMESTER 2

Code Course Name
HOST 1151 Advanced Wine – WSET Level 3
HOST 1152 Advanced Mixology
HOST 1153 Food and Beverage Pairing and Operations
HOST 1155 Wine and Beverage Business Development

SEMESTER 3

Code Course Name
HOST 1162 Externship/Field Placement

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

 

    Career Options

    This program will provide you with advanced professional knowledge of beverages matched with essential business, management and communication skills that prepare you for an abundance of exciting opportunities in Toronto and across the globe.

    Depending on experience and areas of interest, graduates can pursue rewarding hospitality careers as:

    • beverage directors
    • sales agents
    • territory managers
    • product consultants
    • brand ambassadors
    • wine stewards/cellar masters
    • wine country tour guides
    • specialty retail operations
    • portfolio managers
    • merchandising/inventory co-ordinators

    Industry

    The beverage alcohol industry has been the strongest performing industry sector of the last few years and continues to experience record growth.

    Educational Pathways

    Can enter this program from a variety of pathways, including a diploma or bachelor's degree in Food and Beverage Management, Hotel Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Special Event Management or a related area. This program is scheduled in a way to allow industry professionals to continue to work while completing the program

    Tuition and Fees

    Domestic Tuition

    $7,083.00 *

    International Tuition

    $27,024.00 **

    Additional Costs

    *Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the three semesters of program starting in Fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2022 and later dates.

    ** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the three semesters of the program starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for program semesters starting at later dates.

    International Students

    Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

    Financial Assistance

    This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

    Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

    How to Qualify and Apply

    Admission Requirements

    • A diploma or bachelor's degree in Food and Beverage Management, Hotel Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Special Event Management or a related area.

    Applicants who do not have the required academic credentials but are current industry professionals with a minimum one year of industry experience and a strong understanding of industry standards will be selected through an interview at the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (resumé required).

    Course Exemptions

    College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.

    English Language Proficiency

    Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the college level in the George Brown College English Assessment to be considered for admission. In addition, applicants who are accepted based on work experience only will be required to take the English Admissions Assessment in order to evaluate the appropriate level of English language proficiency.

    Please visit English Proficiency for more details.

    International Students

    Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

    Health Policy

    Students should be aware that various allergens including nuts, dairy and shellfish are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances; however, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to halal and kosher foods.

    How to Apply

    Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.

    International Students

    Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

    International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

    Contact Us

    DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS

    For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.

    FINANCIAL/FEES

    For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.

    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management (postgraduate) (H414)

    For general School of Hospitality and Tourism Management related inquiries, please contact chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca

    For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

    International Students

    Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

    Visit Our Campus

    Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.

    Sign up for our Open House Discovery Day

    Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management Program
    (Postgraduate)
    (H414)

    2022-20232023-2024
    • Program Name:
      Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management
    • Code: H414
    • Credential:
      Ontario College Graduate Certificate
    • Method of Study:
      Full-time
    • Duration:
      3 semesters
    • Centre:
    • School: Hospitality & Tourism Management
    • Location: St. James Campus
    • Starting Months: September
    • Domestic Tuition:
      $7,020.00 * ‡
    • Experiential Learning:

      We believe in learning by doing, and that is why we have incorporated work integrated learning opportunities into all CHCA programs.

    • Winter 2022 Delivery:
      Semester 2: Hybrid
    • Spring 2022 Delivery:
      Semester 3: Externship

    Compare up to 3 programs

    Overview

    Program Overview

    Do you want to be a wine, spirit and beer professional? Then realize your potential through our specialized postgraduate program. This program provides a distinct opportunity to learn from the best. A faculty team with a reputation for excellence supports our students. Our faculty are connected to local, national and internationally recognized industry leaders. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, George Brown puts you at the centre of the hospitality industry in Canada.

    Full Description

    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management is a one-year, three-semester postgraduate program developed for hospitality diploma and degree graduates, and industry professionals seeking an advanced level of learning focused on all aspects of the wine, spirit and beer business.

    In our state-of-the-art tasting labs, students will explore and experience global beverages and their relationship to business, cuisine, culture and lifestyle.

    This program will provide you with an advanced level of knowledge in beer, wine, spirits and mixology, and also teach you essential business skills such as financial management, organizational behaviour and strategic marketing – all vital to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace.

    Successful graduates will earn three additional certifications: Wine & Spirit Education Trust® (WSET®) Levels 2 and Prud’homme Beer Certification® Levels 1 & 2.

    These certifications are built into the program curriculum, allowing students to earn additional credentials as well as their Ontario College Graduate Certificate.

    Our curriculum prepares you to be industry-ready for the most demanding beverage positions with product knowledge, experiential learning and business acumen.

    Your Field Education Options

    This program provides a mandatory 14-week externship placement. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed work experience opportunities, which they believe will provide the learning experiences they value and meet the learning outcomes of the program. This valuable work experience can be added to your resumé.

    Program Learning Outcomes

    The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

    1. Manage different departments within food & beverage centred or sales environment using product knowledge, menu development and business acumen skills.
    2. Position products appropriately in the market using established techniques in wine merchandising, product pricing, labelling, branding, advertising, promotions, marketing, public relations, media relations consumer behaviour in the wine industry.
    3. Interpret import and export regulations and recognize opportunities and challenges within the business structures of the wine industry.
    4. Manage and control different aspects of wine-related enterprises to make effective decisions regarding finance, accounting, budget planning, costing, taxation systems, pricing structures in the wine industry, using analytical and synthesis skills.
    5. Implement and develop leadership and human resources skills required in the beverage business that include recruitment, motivational strategies, resolution of labour relations issues and the management of related challenges and responsibilities including culturally sensitive material.
    6. Use current and relevant business strategies to facilitate a sustainable hospitality entity.

    Courses

    Required Courses

    INFORMATION ABOUT FALL 2021

    Information about the courses being delivered for this program in the Fall 2021 semester is now available.

    SEMESTER 1

    Code Course Name
    HOST1141 Intermediate Wine – WSET Level 2
    HOST1142 Human Resources Practices
    HOST1143 Strategic Marketing for the Beverage Industry
    HOST1144 Beer School: Level 1 & 2 Prud'homme Beer Certification
    HOST1154 Financial Beverage Management

    SEMESTER 2

    Code Course Name
    HOST1151 Advanced Wine – WSET Level 3
    HOST1152 Advanced Mixology
    HOST1153 Food and Beverage Pairing and Operations
    HOST1155 Wine and Beverage Business Development

    SEMESTER 3

    Code Course Name
    HOST1162 Externship/Field Placement

    Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

    Your Career

    This program will provide you with advanced professional knowledge of beverages matched with essential business, management and communication skills that prepare you for an abundance of exciting opportunities in Toronto and across the globe.

    Depending on experience and areas of interest, graduates can pursue rewarding hospitality careers as:

    • Beverage directors
    • Sales agents
    • Territory managers
    • Product consultants
    • Brand ambassadors
    • Wine stewards/cellar masters
    • Wine country tour guides
    • Specialty retail operations
    • Portfolio managers
    • Merchandising/inventory coordinators

    Tuition and Fees

    Domestic Tuition

    $7,020.00 * ‡

    Additional Costs

    *Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the semester of programs starting in the fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2021 and later dates.

    International Students

    Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

    Financial Assistance

    This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

    Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

    How to Qualify and Apply

    Admission Requirements

    • A diploma or bachelor's degree in Food and Beverage Management, Hotel Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Special Event Management or a related area.

    Applicants who do not have the required academic credentials but are current industry professionals with a minimum one year of industry experience and a strong understanding of industry standards will be selected through an interview at the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (resumé required).

    Course Exemptions

    College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.

    English Language Proficiency

    Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the College level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission. In addition, applicants who are accepted based on work experience only will be required to take the English Admissions Assessment in order to evaluate the appropriate level of English language proficiency.

    Please visit English Proficiency for more details.

    International Students

    Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

    Health Policy

    Students should be aware that various allergens including nuts, dairy and shellfish are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances; however, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to Halal and Kosher foods.

    How to Apply

    Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.

    International Students

    Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

    International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

    Contact Us

    DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS

    For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.

    FINANCIAL/FEES

    For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.

    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management (postgraduate) (H414)

    For general School of Hospitality and Tourism Management related inquiries, please contact chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca

    For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

    International Students

    Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

    Visit Our Campus

    Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.

    Sign up for our Open House Discovery Day

    Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management Program
    (Postgraduate)
    (H414)

    2022-20232023-2024
    • Program Name:
      Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management
    • Code: H414
    • Credential:
      Ontario College Graduate Certificate
    • Method of Study:
      Full-time
    • Duration:
      3 semesters
    • Centre:
    • School: Hospitality & Tourism Management
    • Location: St. James Campus
    • Starting Months: January
    • Domestic Tuition:
      $6,832.00 * ‡
    • Experiential Learning:

      We believe in learning by doing and that is why we have incorporated work integrated learning opportunities into all CHCA programs.

    Compare up to 3 programs

    Overview

    Program Overview

    This program is being offered in Winter 2021. Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges, and international students can learn more about how to apply.

    Do you want to be a wine, spirit and beer professional? Our specialized postgraduate program provides a distinct opportunity to learn from the best. Students are supported by a faculty with a reputation for excellence, who are connected to local, national and internationally recognized industry leaders. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, George Brown puts you at the centre of the hospitality industry in Canada.

    Full Description

    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management is a one-year, three-semester postgraduate program developed for Hospitality diploma and degree graduates, and industry professionals seeking an advanced level of learning focused on all aspects of the wine, spirit and beer business.

    In our state-of-the-art tasting labs, students will explore and experience global beverages and their relationship to business, cuisine, culture and lifestyle.

    This program will provide you with an advanced level of knowledge in beer, wine, spirits and mixology, and also teach you essential business skills such as financial management, organizational behaviour and strategic marketing – all vital to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace. You will have the opportunity to travel to Canadian and European destinations to visit distilleries, breweries and wineries of international brand leaders to learn best business practices directly from the top professionals in the field. Successful graduates will earn three additional certifications: Wine & Spirit Education Trust® (WSET®) Levels 2 and Prud’homme Beer Certification® Levels 1 & 2.

    These certifications are built into the program curriculum, allowing students to earn additional credentials as well as their Ontario College Graduate Certificate.

    Our curriculum prepares you to be industry-ready for the most demanding beverage positions with product knowledge, experiential learning and business acumen.

    Your Field Education Options

    This program provides a mandatory 14-week externship placement. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed event management industry work experience opportunities they believe would provide the learning experiences they value and meet the learning outcomes of the program. This valuable work experience can be added to your resume.

    CHCA students can also participate in several short study abroad opportunities. Our options change often, but in recent years have included Peru, Europe, Spain, Costa Rica, India, Thailand and trips across Canada. Some trips are purely experiential learning, while others provide you with the opportunity to receive credit for a course in your program.

    Program Learning Outcomes

    The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

    1. Manage different departments within food & beverage centred or sales environment using product knowledge, menu development and business acumen skills.
    2. Position products appropriately in the market using established techniques in wine merchandising, product pricing, labelling, branding, advertising, promotions, marketing, public relations, media relations consumer behaviour in the wine industry.
    3. Interpret import and export regulations and recognize opportunities and challenges within the business structures of the wine industry.
    4. Manage and control different aspects of wine-related enterprises to make effective decisions regarding finance, accounting, budget planning, costing, taxation systems, pricing structures in the wine industry, using analytical and synthesis skills.
    5. Implement and develop leadership and human resources skills required in the beverage business that include recruitment, motivational strategies, resolution of labour relations issues and the management of related challenges and responsibilities including culturally sensitive material.
    6. Use current and relevant business strategies to facilitate a sustainable hospitality entity.

    Courses

    Required Courses

    SEMESTER 1

    semester courses
    Code Course Name
    HOST1141 Intermediate Wine & Spirits - WSET Level 2
    HOST1142 Human Resources Practices
    HOST1143 Strategic Marketing for the Beverage Industry
    HOST1144 Beer School: Level 1 & 2 Prud'homme Beer Certification
    HOST1154 Financial Beverage Management

    SEMESTER 2

    semester courses
    Code Course Name
    HOST1151 Advanced Wine - WSET Level 3
    HOST1152 Advanced Mixology
    HOST1153 Food and Beverage Pairing and Operations
    HOST1155 Wine and Beverage Business Development

    SEMESTER 3

    semester courses
    Code Course Name
    HOST1162 Externship/Field Placement

    Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

    Your Career

    Uncork your potential

    This program will provide you with advanced professional knowledge of beverages matched with essential business, management and communication skills that prepare you for an abundance of exciting opportunities in Toronto and across the globe.

    Depending on experience and areas of interest, graduates can pursue rewarding hospitality careers as:

    • Beverage directors
    • Sales agents
    • Territory managers
    • Product consultants
    • Brand ambassadors
    • Wine stewards/cellar masters
    • Wine country tour guides
    • Specialty retail operations
    • Portfolio managers
    • Merchandising/inventory coordinators

    Tuition and Fees

    Domestic Tuition

    $6,832.00 * ‡

    Additional Costs

    * Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the three semesters of programs starting in Fall 2019. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2020 and at later dates.

    †(approximate) (based on exchange rate, applicable taxes, airport transfer, permit)

    Other fees
    ‡ Additional Cost (Optional)  
    Description Cost
    European Study Tour Component (Semester 3) $4,000 – $5,000†
    Airfare to Europe † (approximate) $1,500 – $1,600†

    International Students

    Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

    Financial Assistance

    This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

    Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

    How to Qualify and Apply

    Admission Requirements

    • A Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Food and Beverage Management, Hotel Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Special Event Management, or a related area.

    Applicants who do not have the required academic credentials but are current industry professionals with a minimum one year of industry experience and a strong understanding of industry standards will be selected through an interview at the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (resume required).

    Course Exemptions

    College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.

    English Language Proficiency

    Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the College level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission. In addition, applicants who are accepted based on work experience only will be required to take the English Admissions Assessment in order to evaluate the appropriate level of English language proficiency.

    Please visit georgebrown.ca/englishproficiency for more details.

    International (Visa) Students

    Visit the International Admissions page for more information.

    International Students

    Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

    Health Policy

    Students should be aware that various allergens including nuts, dairy and shellfish are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances; however, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to Halal and Kosher foods.

    How to Apply

    Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges

    International Students

    Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

    International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

    Contact Us

    DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS

    For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.

    FINANCIAL/FEES

    For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.

    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management (postgraduate) (H414)

    For general School of Hospitality and Tourism Management related inquiries, please contact hospitality@georgebrown.ca.

    For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

    International Students

    Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

    Visit Our Campus

    Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.

    Sign up for our Open House Discovery Day

    Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management Program
    (Postgraduate)
    (H414)

    2022-20232023-2024

    Compare up to 3 programs

    Overview

    Program Overview

    Do you want to be a wine, spirit and beer professional? Our specialized postgraduate program provides a distinct opportunity to learn from the best. Students are supported by a faculty with a reputation for excellence, who are connected to local, national and internationally recognized industry leaders. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, George Brown puts you at the centre of the hospitality industry in Canada.

    Full Description

    Advanced Wine and Beverage Business Management is a one-year, three-semester postgraduate program developed for Hospitality diploma and degree graduates, and industry professionals seeking an advanced level of learning focused on all aspects of the wine, spirit and beer business.

    In our state-of-the-art tasting labs, students will explore and experience global beverages and their relationship to business, cuisine, culture and lifestyle.

    This program will provide you with an advanced level of knowledge in beer, wine, spirits and mixology, and also teach you essential business skills such as financial management, organizational behaviour and strategic marketing – all vital to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace. You will have the opportunity to travel to Canadian and European destinations to visit distilleries, breweries and wineries of international brand leaders to learn best business practices directly from the top professionals in the field. Successful graduates will earn three additional certifications: Wine & Spirit Education Trust® (WSET®) Levels 2 and Prud’homme Beer Certification® Levels 1 & 2.

    These certifications are built into the program curriculum, allowing students to earn additional credentials as well as their Ontario College Graduate Certificate.

    Our curriculum prepares you to be industry-ready for the most demanding beverage positions with product knowledge, experiential learning and business acumen.

    Program Learning Outcomes

    The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

    1. Manage different departments within food & beverage centred or sales environment using product knowledge, menu development and business acumen skills.
    2. Position products appropriately in the market using established techniques in wine merchandising, product pricing, labelling, branding, advertising, promotions, marketing, public relations, media relations consumer behaviour in the wine industry.
    3. Interpret import and export regulations and recognize opportunities and challenges within the business structures of the wine industry.
    4. Manage and control different aspects of wine-related enterprises to make effective decisions regarding finance, accounting, budget planning, costing, taxation systems, pricing structures in the wine industry, using analytical and synthesis skills.
    5. Implement and develop leadership and human resources skills required in the beverage business that include recruitment, motivational strategies, resolution of labour relations issues and the management of related challenges and responsibilities including culturally sensitive material.
    6. Use current and relevant business strategies to facilitate a sustainable hospitality entity.

    Courses

    Required Courses

    SEMESTER 1

    semester courses
    Code Course Name
    HOST1141 Intermediate Wine & Spirits - WSET Level 2
    HOST1142 Human Resources Practices
    HOST1143 Strategic Marketing for the Beverage Industry
    HOST1144 Beer School: Level 1 & 2 Prud'homme Beer Certification
    HOST1154 Financial Beverage Management

    SEMESTER 2

    semester courses
    Code Course Name
    HOST1151 Advanced Wine - WSET Level 3
    HOST1152 Advanced Mixology
    HOST1153 Food and Beverage Pairing and Operations
    HOST1155 Wine and Beverage Business Development

    SEMESTER 3

    semester courses
    Code Course Name
    HOST1162 Externship/Field Placement

    Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

    Your Career

    Uncork your potential

    This program will provide you with an advanced professional knowledge of beverages matched with essential business, management and communication skills that prepare you for an abundance of exciting opportunities in Toronto and across the globe.

    Depending on experience and areas of interest, graduates can pursue rewarding hospitality careers as:

    • Beverage directors
    • Sales agents
    • Territory managers
    • Product consultants
    • Brand ambassadors
    • Wine stewards/cellar masters
    • Wine country tour guides
    • Specialty retail operations
    • Portfolio managers
    • Merchandising/inventory coordinators

    Tuition and Fees

    Domestic Tuition

    $7,191.00 * ‡

    Additional Costs

    Other fees
    ‡ Additional Cost (Optional)  
    Description Cost
    European Study Tour Component (Semester 3) $4,000 – $5,000†
    Airfare to Europe † (approximate) $1,500 – $1,600†

    †(approximate) (based on exchange rate, applicable taxes, airport transfer, permit)

    * Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the three semesters of programs starting in Fall 2018. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2019 and at later dates.

    International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.

    International Students

    Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

    Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

    How to Qualify and Apply

    Admission Requirements

    • A Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Food and Beverage Management, Hotel Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Special Event Management, or a related area.

    Applicants who do not have the required academic credentials but are current industry professionals with a minimum one year of industry experience and a strong understanding of industry standards will be selected through an interview at the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (resume required).

    Course Exemptions

    College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.

    English Language Proficiency

    Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English proficiency test results must test at the College level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission. In addition, applicants who are accepted based on work experience only will be required to take the English Admissions Assessment in order to evaluate the appropriate level of English language proficiency.

    Please visit georgebrown.ca/englishproficiency for more details.

    International (Visa) Students

    Visit the International Admissions page for more information.

    International Students

    Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

    Health Policy

    Students should be aware that various allergens including nuts, dairy and shellfish are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances; however, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to Halal and Kosher foods.

    How to Apply

    Apply To

    Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges

    International Students

    Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

    International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

    Contact Us

    Adrian Caravello, Program Co-ordinator, Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts

    Email: acaravel@georgebrown.ca (for program-specific enquiries only)

    For additional information about George Brown College (including admissions, financial assistance or fee payment enquiries), please call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

    International Students

    Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

    Visit Our Campus

    Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.

    Sign up for our Open House Discovery Day

    Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.