Francisco Rivera’s journey in UD PCS’ Brewing Certificate program
Francisco Rivera has been home brewing for nearly a decade, but this past spring, he took a major step toward turning his passion into a profession. Originally from Puerto Rico and currently living in Philadelphia while his wife completes her medical residency, Rivera enrolled in the University of Delaware’s Division of Professional and Continuing Studies (UD PCS) Foundations of Brewing Science and Brewery Operations Certificate course.
“I’ve been brewing at home for eight years, mostly learning through trial and error,” Rivera said. “But I wanted to understand the science behind it and the business side too. This course gave me both.”
The 10-week live-online program, taught by veteran brewmaster Brad Adelson, is designed for both hobbyists and aspiring professionals. It covers everything from beer styles and raw materials to brewing operations, safety, packaging and quality control. Students also have the option to attend an in-person session at Delaware Park’s 1937 Brewing Company, where they get hands-on experience in a working brewery.
Rivera found the course, which next begins on Sept. 24, to be not only affordable but also incredibly enriching. “The price was right, and the value was even better,” he said. “It was fun, instructive and stress-free.”
One of the highlights for Rivera was the instruction from Adelson, whose teaching style made a lasting impression. “Brad is a special kind of brewer,” Rivera said. “He’s incredibly knowledgeable and has a scientific mindset, but he also knows how to make the material accessible to everyone — whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience.”
Rivera appreciated how Adelson took the time to understand each student’s goals. “He was genuinely interested in what your next steps might be,” Rivera said. “Whether you wanted to stay a home brewer or make a career move, Brad made the course feel personal.”
The diversity of the class also added to the experience. “We had everyone from retirees to winemakers looking to expand their knowledge,” Rivera noted. “It was great to learn alongside people with such varied backgrounds.”
As a father to a toddler, Rivera found the online format especially convenient. “Being able to attend from home was a huge plus,” he said. “But the in-person brewery visit was a real treat. The venue was amazing, and it was great to meet my classmates in person. The food and beer were beautiful.”
Rivera is now more motivated than ever to open his own brewery. “This course gave me the confidence and the knowledge I needed to take that next step,” he said. “It’s not just about making beer — it’s about understanding the craft and the industry.”
With a digital badge awarded upon completion and practical skills that translate directly into brewery roles, the UD program is helping people like Rivera turn their brewing dreams into reality. “It went by so fast,” he said. “I’d recommend it to anyone who’s serious about brewing.”
Learn more or register at pcs.udel.edu/brewing.
