Indice
The SCA Coffee Skills Program
Would you like to become a barista or a coffee shop specialist? The SCA Coffee Skills Program is a modular, multi-level pathway that enables you to gain internationally recognized knowledge and certifications.
The Coffee Skills Program is promoted by the SCA and delivered worldwide by Authorized SCA Trainers (ASTs).
How the Coffee Skills Program is Structured
The Coffee Skills Program is divided into 6 modules, each (except for Introduction to Coffee) split into 3 levels. Each level carries a score set by the SCA; once you reach 100 points you can apply for the Coffee Diploma.
MODULES
This module examines coffee’s journey from cultivating the cherries, through processing to remove the beans, to roasting and brewing, providing an overview of the coffee value chain.
This module equips you with the practical skills you need behind the bar: from setting up the grinder to milk steaming and latte art techniques, health and safety, customer service, and basic business practices.
Brewing covers all coffee extraction methods other than espresso. The Brewing module provides hands-on learning on grinding, brewing methods, measuring coffee TDS%, and reading and creating extraction charts.
This module presents the key concepts of green coffee: production, processing, grading, shipping, storage, arrival at destination, contracts, and portfolio management.
A module focused on the roasting process, including roast cycles, roast levels, defect identification, the physical changes beans undergo during roasting, as well as workspace management and efficient production.
A module that covers the essentials of sensory evaluation in a practical, interactive way. Sensory Skills explores how we perceive what we taste, how to assess coffee’s natural attributes, and how to apply this knowledge in the café environment.
LEVELS FOR EACH MODULE
The Foundation level offers an initial introduction to the selected module. No prior experience is required. Courses at this level generally last 1 day.
Points toward the Coffee Skills Program: 5
Intermediate is the level after Foundation. To take modules at this level, it is advisable to be working in the industry and already familiar with the basic concepts, which are then developed and consolidated.
Points toward the Coffee Skills Program: 10
The Professional level is suitable if you wish to continue with advanced, specialist knowledge in the chosen subject. A Professional certificate should signal to employers a high level of on-the-job competence. Extensive prior experience in the subject is recommended before attempting this level.
Points toward the Coffee Skills Program: 25
RECOMMENDED PATHWAYS
Given the wide range of modules and knowledge available, we recommend three main pathways based on your professional goals, each with distinct focus areas and skill sets.
A pathway recommended for those who want to work as a barista with a specialization in espresso extraction.
The modules to take for this pathway are:
A pathway recommended for those who want to become a barista specializing in non-espresso brewing methods.
The modules to take for this pathway are:
A pathway recommended for those who want to become coffee experts.
The modules to take for this pathway are:
