Your study of the Diploma in Distilling is facilitated by online, self-directed learning material which explains all topics in the syllabus comprehensively. The learning material features clear and engaging text, numerous technical illustrations, and videos to help you reinforce your understanding of the subject. You can answer detailed technical questions throughout the course. These self-assessment questions help you test your understanding and identify areas where further study is required. You can also check your understanding of the learning materials by answering advanced multiple-choice questions at the end of every unit.
The CIBD Diploma in Distilling provides a comprehensive, practical understanding of spirit production science and technology and a globally recognised certification. This qualification is most applicable to a technical distiller or distillery manager in a larger distillery or a head distiller of a smaller, independent distillery.
You will be taught the science, technology and best practice of distilling in detail. The Diploma in Distilling covers the entire spirit production process from raw material specification and selection to ensuring the spirit is perfectly prepared for packaging. You will also learn about the management of quality and the process engineering used in distilleries.
This qualification is split into three modules, each building on the knowledge gained in the General Certificate in Distilling. You can complete the modules in any order, but you must pass each module’s exam to attain the Diploma in Distilling qualification. Once you have attained the Diploma in Distilling you can use the post nominal Dipl. Distil.
Exam Dates
Module 1 4 June 2025
Module 2 11 June 2025
Module 3 12 June 2025
Registration Closing: 11 March 2025
Prices
Per Module £609
Includes all learning material (online and self-directed) and the exam.
Tutor Guided Learning £1,440
Our recommended support package.
Membership Offer £50
Special rate for students
Study Requirement 120 Hours minimum per module
Pre-requisites
No prior educational qualifications are required for applicants to sit the Diploma Examinations.
However, the CIBD Board of Examiners recommends that candidates should have successfully completed the relevant CIBD General Certificate Examination and/or have studied Chemistry, Biology, and mathematics ideally to a minimum of A-level or equivalent* in advance of registering for the Diploma.
*Equivalents include (but are not limited to) International Baccalaureate, European Baccalaureate, USA AP’s, Australian ATAR.
Support
Tutor Guided Learning
- Participate in live online tutorials delivered by CIBD tutors, in groups of less than 20.
- CIBD tutors are handpicked experts in their field, are certified in online learning delivery and located around the globe.
- Participate in the dedicated TGL forums, where you can ask your tutor questions and discuss topics with other learners.
- Expand your network by interacting with other learners.
- Answer weekly questions to assess your understanding of the topics covered in the live sessions and receive structured feedback from the tutor team.
- Access recordings of all tutoring sessions to consolidate your knowledge.
- Learn in the comfort of your own home and at a time convenient to you.
- Complete practice exam-style questions and get detailed feedback on your answer.
- Participate in exam preparation sessions and receive tips for tackling questions that you might face.
Qualifications
What's Next
For those who have achieved the Diploma in Distilling, the journey to Master Distiller is the next stage in your professional certification programme. The CIBD’s Master Distiller qualification is the industry's highest level of recognition for brewing professionals.
What people are saying
“I applied to do the Diploma in Distilling with the CIBD because of its international reputation and in-depth content of the biological, chemical, and physical processes involved in distillation. The ability to pursue one module per year allowed me to study and work at the same time. The tutors are industry experts, which really added value to the learning program. The content provided clear examples and the ability to discuss processes in more depth. Overall, the qualification and knowledge gained during the course complemented the experience gained whilst working in the industry. It has greatly accelerated my change in career, and I can now look forward to a long and successful employment at Talisker distillery. "
