Master in Sommelier Studies and Innovation in the Liquid World

NEXT EDITION: 21 SEPTEMBER 2026

REGISTER HERE - Enrollment open until 7 September 2026 or until all spots are filled

Lead the new era of the sommelier profession: innovation, experience and a strategic vision of the liquid world

The sommelier profession is evolving. New consumers, new beverages, the rise of NoLo and the need to create distinctive experiences demand a more innovative, strategic approach, connected to the beverage business.

The Master’s Degree in the Sommelier Profession and Innovation in the Liquid World promotes this new role. It teaches you how to design high-value beverage propositions, lead innovative projects and communicate, manage and develop experiences that make a difference in haute cuisine and contemporary dining.

Why will this Master´s Degree transform your professional background?

• A New Sommelier Profession, A Global Vision: Master the contemporary world of beverages: wine, new beverage categories, NoLo, mixology, sustainability and innovation applied to modern gastronomy.
• Innovation in Liquid Proposals and the Strategic Role of the Sommelier: Learn to design unique beverage propositions, communicate with impact and take on strategic roles beyond front-of-house service, incorporating a management perspective.
• Learn from the Best: Train with a leading faculty of professionals from haute cuisine, liquid innovation and specialised consultancies who are currently at the forefront of the sector.
• Hybrid and practical methodolohy: Combine online learning with an experience-based methodology based on technical tastings, real-life case studies and the development of projects related to the professional sphere.
• Stand out with international recognision: Boost your CV with the official WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines certification.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Start date: 21st of September 2026
• Registration deadline: 7th of September 2026
• Registration open until 30 September 2026
• Language: Spanish
• Duration: 60 ECTS 
• 18 available slots
• Blended learning
• Location: Location: in-person residential period at Basque Culinary Center 
• Academic period: 21st September 2026 to 19th March 2027​
  • Online period: 28th September 2026 to 31st January 2027
  • In-person period: 1st February to 19th March 2027 (two months)
    • In-person classes: Monday to Thursday, from 14:30 to 20:30h (CEST)
  • Internship period: 1st May to 27th July 2027
• Type of degree: University-specific Degree from Mondragón University, delivered by Basque Culinary Center
• Degree: Professional Master in Sommelier Studies and Wine Marketing
• For enquiries and more information, please complete the form by clicking here

MASTER'S OBJECTIVES

• Solid professional foundations in the sommelier profession: Master service, cellar management, sensory analysis and the classic fundamentals of the profession with a modern and professional approach.
• A global vision of the contemporary liquid world: Understand wines, spirits, fermented beverages, NoLo beverages and new categories, appreciating their gastronomic, cultural and commercial value. Includes preparation for the WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines.
• Innovation and design of beverage propositions: Learn to create your own beverages, unique drinks lists and liquid experiences in line with the identity of the gastronomic project.
• Management and profitability of the beverages department: Plan purchasing, control inventories, incorporate digital tools and make decisions based on economic and strategic criteria.
• Experience, communication and leadership: Design memorable pairings and harmonies, communicate with impact and take on a strategic role as a sommelier in highly demanding environments.

MASTER´S PROGRAMME

Having a university degree is not a requirement to enrol in this master’s programme; however, holding one may influence the admission process and the type of qualification you receive upon completion.

After successfully completing the master’s, you will be awarded the Master’s Degree in Sommelier Studies and Innovation in the Liquid World by Basque Culinary Center.

If you hold a university degree (Bachelor’s, Licentiate, Engineering or Diploma, or an equivalent qualification), you will also be eligible to obtain the Master’s Degree in Continuing Education, issued by Mondragon University.

If you do not have a university degree but wish to obtain the Continuing Education qualification, you may indicate this during the admission process to take part in the competency recognition process, which assesses your professional experience and background.
If you successfully complete this process, you will be eligible for the Master’s Degree in Continuing Education once the programme is finished.
If not, you will still be able to complete the master’s, but the qualification awarded will be a University Extension Diploma.

PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

1. Sommelier in haute cuisine and fine dining restaurants

2. Wine cellar management and beverage manager

3. Beverage specialist for F&B departments

4. Beverage consultancy and advisory services

5. Development of beverage experiences and food and wine events

6. Specialised communication

7. Entrepreneurship in the beverage sector

LISTEN TO/READ ABOUT OUR ALUMNI

Leticia Sanz Alonso – Bodega Javier Sanz Viticultor

My journey began in various departments of the winery, which allowed me to understand the versatility and challenges of running a family business. What I value most about the Master’s program is the strong networking with professionals in the sector, the hands-on learning during trips to leading wine regions, and the chance to experience Donosti’s rich wine culture. This Master’s has boosted my professional growth and has been a truly transformative experience—one I would definitely choose again.