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Cheers To A New Career: You Can Now Get A Master’s Degree In Brewing Beer

When my youngest son was still in high school and looking at colleges, he and I took a road trip to the great state of Alabama where our first stop…

Waist up portrait of bearded brewmaster holding beer glass while inspecting quality of production at brewing factory.

Imagine making beer for a living. Auburn University now offers a master’s degree in beer brewing science and operations. Beard not required. (Photo by SeventyFour/iStock via Getty Images)

Photo by SeventyFour/iStock via Getty Images

When my youngest son was still in high school and looking at colleges, he and I took a road trip to the great state of Alabama where our first stop was a visit to Auburn University. We were both impressed. It's a beautiful campus in a great little town, but Nick did not end up going there. However, he may reconsider if he decides to apply for a graduate program. In fact, I think a lot of people will take a look at Auburn for grad school. That's because Auburn University is now offering a master’s degree in beer brewing science and operations. After all, what goes together better than college and beer?

According to The Drinks Business, the beer brewing program began in the autumn of 2015 as a simple graduate certificate but has since expanded to include the master’s. The program is the first of its kind in the United States and is being offered through Auburn University's Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management College of Human Sciences. The first cohort of 17 students graduated in August 2023 after the Master of Science element was added in 2021. The program takes two years to complete over six semesters. Students get plenty of hands-on experience through New Realm Brewing Company, which is right on campus.

If you were to go back to school for a master's degree, what would you study? Would it be something to advance in your current career, launch a new career, or just for fun?

3 Carolina Cities Are Must Visit Spots for Beer Lovers in the U.S.

Are you a beer lover? If so, then you probably know of a few cities that are worth the trip. All beer lovers have those favorite places where to visit for some great beer. Whether you like the small, quaint charming bars or the busy city view with a great beer, many cities are great for beer lovers. There are so many beer destinations to visit throughout the United States so you never know where you may end up.

Tasting Table is naming 26 of the best cities in the United States for beer lovers. From the mountains to the beaches to small towns, there are plenty of beer-loving cities for you to enjoy. But, did you know that there are three Carolina cities great for those who love beer? Two North Carolina cities and one South Carolina city specifically are great for those who love a good beer. Can you guess what Carolina cities made the Tasting Table list? Check out the Carolina cities below and if you want to know what cities made the full 26 list, click here.

Asheville, North Carolina

Of course, Asheville had to make the list. It has some of the best beers that we all know and love in North Carolina. The area is home to more than 50 breweries to choose from plus they have an annual Beer Week where all the beer lovers can enjoy a sip. From special local beers to some of your classic favorites, Asheville is a good time for all of the beer lovers we know and love. Book a brewery tour while you're in the area and learn more about some of the famous local beers that Asheville has to offer.

Charleston, South Carolina

Up next is the one and only, Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston is home to some amazing food and drink specials you can have. The southern charm of Charleston has grown to become a spot for beer lovers over the years. The historic spot is becoming famous for the brewery options that have come over the years. You can go tasting on roof tops, breweries, or enjoy a cold beverage on the water whenever you're down in Charleston.

Raleigh, North Carolina

We're making another stop in North Carolina. This time we're heading to Raleigh, North Carolina. Raleigh is up there when it comes to having a lot of breweries per capita. The area is home to plenty of options from breweries with a beer garden and live music or local dive bars. With spots to enjoy like Clouds Brewing or Compass Rose Brewery that can allow you plenty of beers to enjoy and sip on while you're visiting.

Phil Harris is 50% of "Phil & Mel in the Afternoon" on K104.7. He has been with the station since 2013 and on the air in Charlotte since 2000. Before coming to the Queen City, Phil worked for radio stations in Pittsburgh, Austin, and Seattle. In addition to the weekly "Throwback Threesome" music video feature, Phil writes about things that matter to Charlotte sports fans and pet owners. He happens to be both.