Order of Courses for Coffee Making and Barista Skills

When you're interested in the cask-and-curry of coffee making and barista skills, there are numerous sets of courses offered by various organizations worldwide. However, many baristas and coffee aficionados simply learn their skills on the job, without formal training. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Curriculum is a recognized learning path, comprising five modules. While it is quite comprehensive and can be costly, the SCA's Coffee Skills program does not guarantee a job, it offers valuable training.

The Path to Becoming a Barista

The journey to becoming a proficient barista involves a variety of courses and resources. The SCA Curriculum is a widely recognized structure, consisting of the following modules:

Introduction to Coffee: Understanding the basics of coffee culture, origin, and processing. Coffee Roasting: Learning about the roasting process and its impact on flavor. Coffee Brewing Methods: Mastering various brewing techniques and equipment. Cupping and Quality Control: Developing skills in sensory evaluation and quality assurance. Service and Business: Understanding customer service, business operations, and the café environment.

The cost of each module is around $150-200 US, and some may include an additional fee for assessment. Therefore, the total cost can be upwards of $1,000. It's important to note that completing these courses does not automatically lead to a job. However, it provides a solid foundation in coffee making and barista skills.

Other Resources and Online Courses

Besides the SCA Curriculum, there are many other courses and online resources available. You can find a comprehensive course catalog on the SCA Course Catalog, which lists courses from around the world. Online courses and books provide additional learning opportunities, but they may not offer the same structured curriculum as formal courses.

Conclusion

While there is no formal, well-recognized curriculum that guarantees a job, the SCA Curriculum and other recognized resources provide valuable training. Barista jobs can be quite underpaid, often paying minimum wage. However, these roles are relatively easy to find, and you can develop your skills on the job. Whether you choose the SCA Curriculum or other resources, the key is to find the right fit for your interests and career goals.