Launch of a Masters of Science in Brewing and Distilling in TU Dublin
The Irish Whiskey Association, the trade association representing the Irish Whiskey sector, has today (10.04.2025) welcomed the launch of a Masters of Science (MSc) in Brewing and Distilling in TU Dublin.
The Irish Whiskey sector has experienced significant growth in the past 15 years: in 2010, there were just 4 working distilleries on the island of Ireland. Today, there are over 50.
However, this rapid growth – powered by the success of the category worldwide – does mean that there can be challenges in recruiting skilled workers to meet the increased demand for distilling.
The Irish Whiskey Association and its membership has engaged with TU Dublin and several third-level institutions across Ireland, offering supports and scholarships to courses in Brewing and Distilling in SETU and Maynooth University. These courses are offered as a primary degrees or as Micro-credentials intended to upskill those already in the workforce.
However, this marks the first time that a MSc will be available to third-level students on the island of Ireland.
Speaking at the launch event on Thursday evening, Director of the Irish Whiskey Association Eoin Ó Catháin, commended the work of TU Dublin on bringing this course so far:
“I am heartened to see the enthusiasm and good-will for Ireland’s Brewing and Distilling sectors at this launch event this evening. The Brewing and Distilling sector employs 10,000 people in Ireland and supports so many more. The growth in the industry, while very welcome, does mean that there is no shortage of vacancies for skilled roles in Ireland’s drinks sector. This course serves as an endorsement for our sector, and I hope that many students can pass through the doors of this university into well-paid and secure jobs in Ireland’s most innovative and exciting breweries and distilleries.
“Ireland is noted for its well-developed agri-food sector. However, one of the challenges Irish Whiskey and Irish spirits companies can face is promoting the opportunities they have for the young people of Ireland. The Irish Whiskey Association looks forward to working with valued partners, such as TU Dublin, in increasing the visibility of our amazing sector. We will continue to advocate for greater promotion of this sector with the government, and I will engage directly with James Lawless, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and his Department, to achieve this.”#
Further information
In addition to the exciting launch of this new MSc programme, TU Dublin also offers a part-time Postgraduate Certificate and a Postgraduate Diploma, providing flexible pathways for professionals ready to advance their careers. Whether students want to deepen their expertise or take the next step in their academic journey, TU Dublin has a programme to support their goals. More information is available from tudublin.ie.
