SCAA Launches E-Learning Platform for Roaster, Barista and Taster Certifications

Creative Commons photo by Jared Scheel

The Specialty Coffee Association of America is soft-launching its e-learning program, including numerous courses that count toward some of the SCAA’s most popular certifications. Approximately 20 courses are available or soon-to-be-available through the online platform, with more to follow the SCAA 2015 Event in April, SCAA Marketing and Communications Director Tara Smith tells Daily Coffee News.

(related: A Look Back at A Really Big SCAA 2014 in Seattle (Plus Photo Gallery)

“We heard our members when they told us that they wanted more opportunities to begin or complete their SCAA certificate programs in a way that fits their busy lives,” says Smith. “Being able to take SCAA courses from the comfort of your couch or office, without any associated travel costs, is a huge benefit and will allow even more of our members to have access to the expert-led educational courses.”

Like the SCAA’s face-to-face courses, the e-courses are taught by SCAA Lead Instructors, and Smith said the online platform doesn’t change the content, although certain courses that require hands-on components like espresso machines won’t be offered online.

(related: Drupe, There it Is: The SCAA’s Coffee Biology Field Glossary)

“The courses we do offer span both Level 1 and 2 in the Roaster, Barista and Cup Tasters certificate programs,” she said. Following is a complete list of courses currently available. With its site currently undergoing maintenance for a membership database upgrade, the SCAA is taking registrations for the e-learning courses here.

RP110 Intro to Roasting Equipment | E- Learning Class | Sept 22, 2014 | $140/$240

RP208 Roaster Plant Safety | E-Learning Class | Sept 22, 2014 | $140/$240

CP200 Barista Level 1 Preparation | E-Learning CLass | Sept 25, 2014 | $40/$60

CB200 Basic Green Coffee Logistics: From Mill to Roasters | E-Learning Class | Sept 26, 2014 | $50/$70

CP103 Customer Service | E-Learning Class | Oct 2, 2014 | $45/$100

CB100 Seed to Cup | E-Learning Class | Oct 15, 2014 | $95/$165

CB100 Seed to Cup | E-Learning Class | Nov 6, 2014 | $95/$165

CB200 Basic Green Coffee Logistics: From Mill to Roasters | E-Learning Class | Nov 7, 2014 | $50/$70

CP103 Customer Service | E-Learning Class | Nov 18, 2014 | $45/$100