Course Content

Together with our experienced instructors, you will gain comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of brewing – from raw materials and the brewing process to the finished beer and its evaluation.

You can look forward to the following course content:

• Sensory Skills and Tasting Training
  The foundation of any beer expertise lies in developing sensory skills and the ability to reliably identify and evaluate quality characteristics as well as off-flavors and off-odors.
• Barley and Malt
  Beer begins in the field: You’ll learn about the importance of barley as a raw material and how it’s processed into malt. You’ll also come to understand how malt quality, roast levels, and enzymatic activity significantly influence the character and color of the beer.
• Water Technology
  Water is the main ingredient in beer. You will learn how water composition, minerals, and treatment are specifically used to shape different beer styles.
• Hops
  Hops give beer its aroma and stability. You’ll learn about different varieties, growing regions, and uses—from classic to modern, aroma-forward styles.
• Brewhouse
  The wort is produced in the brewhouse. You will gain in-depth knowledge of mashing, lautering, and wort boiling, as well as the technological principles and factors that influence quality and efficiency.
• Yeast and Fermentation
  Fermentation is what makes beer. You will learn about yeast strains, fermentation profiles, and their impact on alcohol content, carbonation, and flavor profile, and you will understand how to precisely control fermentation processes.
• Analytics
  Modern analytics enables the monitoring of every step in the process. You gain insights into measurement methods and quality parameters to ensure a consistently high product standard.
• Cleaning and Disinfection
  Hygiene is crucial to beer quality. You will learn about procedures and standards for effective cleaning and disinfection to minimize microbiological risks.
• Beer Dispensing Systems
  From the tank to the glass: You’ll gain practical knowledge about beer dispensing systems so you can serve beer of the highest quality.
• Beer and the Law
  You will learn the legal fundamentals of beer production, labeling, and marketing, and gain the confidence to navigate the regulatory framework. 
• The History of Beer and Brewing
  The history of beer is closely linked to culture and craftsmanship. You’ll gain fascinating insights into the evolution of brewing up to the present day.
• International Beer Styles
  From classic to creative: You’ll discover the diversity of international beer styles and learn about their typical characteristics, ingredients, and brewing methods.
• Recipe Development
  Finally, you’ll put your knowledge to creative use: you’ll develop your own beer recipes and learn how to turn an idea into a marketable product.

The IHK module covers the following topics:

• General Business Administration ( ~ 12 UE)
• Accounting (Cost Accounting; Database Accounting; Financial Statements; Business Plan) ( ~ 24 UE )
• Specific topics in management and labor law ( ~ 20 UE)
• Marketing, Sales ( ~ 16 UE)
• Purchasing and Logistics ( ~ 16 UE)
• Final Exam ( ~ 2 UE)