KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Western Michigan University is considering adding a new major to its curriculum, one that is sure to interest beer drinkers.

The proposed Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Craft Brewing has been approved by the WMU Board of Trustees. The university will make a final decision on the program later this month.

The Sustainable Craft Brewing program is designed to educate students on the technical features of brewing beer, the biochemistry and microbiology involved in fermentation and aging of ales, as well as the history and social forces of brewing in human civilization.

The proposed new major would be offered alongside Kalamazoo Valley Community College's brewing certificate program, with community college credits transferable to the proposed four-year degree at WMU.

West Michigan has one of the highest concentrations of craft breweries in the country including Bells, Latitude 42, Arcadia, Saugatuck, and Founders.

The major would be available beginning in the fall 2015 semester.