The world of beverages is more than just beer – and this is impressively demonstrated in the Brewing and Beverage Technology program at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) in Weihenstephan. This degree combines scientific knowledge, engineering skills, and hands-on practical training. Students learn not only how beverages are made, but also how to optimize processes, analyze raw materials, and develop innovative products.
A particularly vivid insight into the program is provided by the ARD Alpha video “Til’s Dream: Brewing Beer & Developing Beverages.” It shows how students bring their ideas to life in beverage technology – from laboratory practicals to the development of new drinks.
The program is divided into Bachelor, Master, and Diploma Brewmaster levels. The Bachelor’s degree provides a foundation in chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics, supplemented by modules such as microbiology, yeast and beer technology, and sensory analysis. Internships and the Bachelor thesis prepare students specifically for practical work. The Master’s program builds on this foundation and focuses on process engineering, automation, sustainability, and scientific research, often in close collaboration with industry partners. The degree master brewer (‘Diplombraumeister’) combines theory and practice, with a strong emphasis on automation, quality management, and sustainable processes.
After graduation, a wide range of career opportunities in the beverage industry opens up. Graduates can work in quality management, monitoring and optimizing processes, developing new beverages, engaging in research and innovation, or planning and digitalizing production facilities. Positions in marketing, sales, or international business are also possible – the program ideally combines technical and business skills.
A practical example is provided by the second ARD Alpha video “Sina’s Dream Job – Quality Manager at the Weihenstephan Brewery.” It shows how varied and responsible a career in the beverage industry can be – from quality assurance and process optimization to product development.
The Chair of Brewing and Beverage Technology (BGT) at TUM combines research and teaching at the highest level. Students can write their theses here, participate in projects on fermentation, sensory analysis, or sustainable raw materials, and conduct laboratory experiments. The program is further enriched by seminars, lectures, and excursions to the research brewery – science for the practice of today and tomorrow.
The Brewing and Beverage Technology program is therefore ideal for anyone who wants to combine science, technology, and beverages. It offers a solid education and numerous opportunities to actively shape the future of the beverage industry – from the laboratory to research and practical work in the field.
