INDIANAPOLIS -- Beer soon won't be just an extracurricular subject at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.

IUPUI said Tuesday that it will offer a new course, introduction to microbrewing, starting Jan. 13.

The class, taught by members of the Brewers of Indiana Guild, will include lectures and sampling of beer provided by instructors.

"This class is for anyone interested in the hospitality service (or) working in a restaurant or tourism venue that will be serving beer, as well as for those of an entrepreneurial spirit who would like to own and operate a brewpub or would like to learn how to make beer at home," said Julie Grelle, the guild's secretary and treasurer, in a press release.

Students also will be taught what it takes to operate a small business, including dealing with licensing requirements.

Students must be at least 21 years old, IUPUI said.

Depending on interest, IUPUI could add courses that would lead to a certificate in microbrewing. In Indiana, microbrewers are brewers who produce 20,000 barrels or less of beer annually, the school said.