Where artisan brewers and expert operations professionals get their start.
With more breweries per square foot than almost anywhere in America, GRCC is ready to meet West Michigan's growing hiring needs in the craft brewing industry.
Attend a Craft Brewing Open House to learn more about our programs
Why Craft Brewing at GRCC?
- This program allows you to gain fieldwork experience and an internship at a brewer or brewing-related operation.
- You will acquire the ServSafe Alcohol certification and the Certified
Beer Server certification while participating in the program. - Upon graduation you will be prepared to take the Certified Cicerone
exam. - Our on-site brewery, Fountain Hill Brewery, provides hands-on experience into the art, science and technology of brewing, with a focus on brewing microbiology, biochemistry, sensory analysis.
- This certificate will give you the competitive edge for entry-level positions in service, brewing or management in brew pubs or craft breweries.
Craft Brewing, Packaging, and Service Operations Certificate
Sample Program Courses
This is a sample listing of the Program Courses required for this certificate. GRCC Certificates may also include program electives.
- CRB 101 - Introduction to Sensory Analysis, Beer Styles & Brewing History
- CRB 105 - Craft Brewing Field Work
- CRB 110 - Introduction to Craft Beverage Brewing
- CRB 201 - Sensory Analysis of Beer and Beer & Food Pairings
- CRB 205 - Craft Brewery Taproom Business Operations and Management
- CRB 210 - Advanced Craft Beverage Brewing
Essential Abilities/Technical Standards
The Grand Rapids Community College Secchia Institute for Culinary Education faculty has specified essential abilities and technical standards critical to the success of students in any GRCC Culinary Arts, Culinary Management, Baking and Pastry Arts, and Personal Chef Program. Students must demonstrate these essential abilities to succeed in their program of study. Qualified applicants are expected to meet all admission criteria, and matriculating students are expected to meet all progression criteria, as well as these essential abilities and technical standards with or without reasonable accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Craft Brewing (CRB) program associated with any industry certification programs?
A: No, the CRB program is not officially affiliated with any certification programs but courses are designed to cover the content on the Certified Cicerone exam and Institute of Brewing & Distilling General Certificate in Brewing exam. As part of the CRB program students are required to pass the ServSafe Alcohol and Cicerone Program’s Certified Beer Server exam.
Q: Can I take only one course in the program?
A: Yes, there are a number of courses that do not have any prerequisites or corequisites. You may take courses individually or take a couple that interest you.
Q: If I only want to take a single course, how do I apply?
A: You may apply as a personal Interest student. This process does not require you to submit official transcripts from previous institutions.
Q: What is the difference between attending as a personal Interest student and auditing a course?
A: Personal interest students complete all of the required coursework and exams. Auditing a course does not require the student to complete projects, exams or meet attendance requirements. If you audit a course, you do not receive credit for the course.
Q: If I apply as a personal Interest student or audit a course can I still complete the Craft Brewing Certificate?
A: Yes and no. If you complete a course as a personal interest student you will need to switch to a degree seeking student by submitting the appropriate application. This can be done at any time in the program. If you audit a course, that course will not count toward the completion of the CRB certification.
More program information
- Age Requirement: The Michigan Liquor Control Commission requires that students be 18 or older to enroll in classes in the Craft Brewing, Packaging, and Service Operations Certificate.
- Transportation required: Some courses may require class field trips and/or travel to internship sites. Students are responsible for their transportation and any associated travel costs.
Additional Information
Want to learn more about this area of study?
Visit the Department of Secchia Institute for Culinary Education
Questions about this program?
Department email: culinary@grcc.edu
Department phone: (616) 234-3690
