Top 10 Coffee Shop Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a coffee shop manager in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and skill. They can show potential employers that the candidate is knowledgeable about the industry, has experience with certain processes, and is familiar with safety regulations. Additionally, certifications can help distinguish one applicant from another, as employers may prefer candidates who have been certified in relevant areas. Certifications also provide proof that the candidate has taken the initiative to learn more about their field and invest in their own professional development.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Coffee Shop Managers and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Coffee Shop Manager Certifications?

Coffee shop manager certification is a type of professional credential that is designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a successful coffee shop. This certification demonstrates an individual’s expertise in various aspects of running a successful business, such as customer service, marketing, finance, food safety and sanitation, beverage preparation, inventory management, and barista training. It also reinforces the importance of upholding high standards for quality and consistency in order to keep customers coming back.

Having coffee shop manager certification can be beneficial for both employers and employees. For employers, it provides assurance that they are hiring qualified personnel with the right skillset to handle their coffee shop operations. Additionally, it can help them stand out from other businesses in their area by showing potential customers that they are committed to providing a quality experience. For employees, having this certification gives them an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs as it shows their dedication to their craft as well as their commitment to excellence in customer service and operations. Additionally, it can open up career advancement opportunities for those looking to move up within the industry or transition into related fields such as hospitality or retail management.

Pro Tip: When considering a coffee shop manager certification, look for certifications that include comprehensive training in customer service, inventory management, and food safety. This will help ensure that your managers are well-equipped to handle the day-to-day operations of running a successful coffee shop.

Related: What does a Coffee Shop Manager do?

Top 10 Coffee Shop Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Coffee Shop Managers today.

1. Certified Coffee Shop Manager (CCSM)

Certified Coffee Shop Manager (CCSM) is a certification program designed for coffee shop owners and managers. It is offered by the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA). The CCSM program provides an in-depth education on all aspects of running a successful coffee shop, including customer service, beverage preparation, menu development, and store operations.

The CCSM program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course takes approximately 10 hours to complete and covers topics such as understanding specialty coffee, developing a business plan, managing staff, marketing strategies, and more. After completing the online course, participants must pass an in-person exam at an SCAA-approved testing center.

The cost of the CCSM program depends on whether you choose to take the online course or attend an in-person training session. For the online course only, it costs $299 USD; for both the online course and in-person exam it costs $399 USD.

In order to get certified as a CCSM, you must first register with SCAA and complete their online application form. Once approved, you will be able to access the online course materials and schedule your in-person exam at an approved testing center near you.

2. Certified Barista Trainer (CBT)

A Certified Barista Trainer (CBT) is a professional who has been certified to train baristas in the art of coffee making. This certification is typically obtained through an accredited program or course and allows the individual to teach others how to make espresso drinks, pour-over coffee, and other specialty coffee beverages. The CBT program usually requires completion of a hands-on training program that covers topics such as brewing techniques, customer service, and drink preparation.

The length of time it takes to obtain a CBT certification varies depending on the program chosen. Most programs require at least 40 hours of instruction, but some may require more or less time depending on the level of expertise desired. Additionally, some programs may also offer additional certifications for advanced levels of knowledge and skill.

To become a Certified Barista Trainer (CBT), individuals must complete an approved course or program that meets the requirements set forth by their chosen certification body. Typically, these courses include classroom instruction as well as hands-on training in order to gain proficiency in all aspects of coffee making and customer service.

The cost of obtaining a CBT certification varies depending on the program chosen, but most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD. Additionally, many programs offer discounts for students or those who are members of certain organizations or associations.

3. Professional Barista Certification (PBC)

Professional Barista Certification (PBC) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of professional baristas. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence in the field of coffee service.

The PBC program consists of three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires a certain number of hours in both classroom instruction and hands-on training.

To get the PBC certification, individuals must first complete the Foundation Level course. This course covers topics such as coffee history, espresso preparation, milk steaming techniques, customer service skills, and more. After completing the Foundation Level course, individuals can then move on to the Intermediate or Advanced Levels depending on their experience level.

The cost of obtaining Professional Barista Certification varies depending on the level chosen and where it is obtained. Generally speaking, however, it can range from $200-$500 for each level completed.

Overall, Professional Barista Certification is an excellent way for baristas to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in coffee service while also gaining recognition within the industry. It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete all three levels of certification depending on how quickly individuals progress through each course.

4. Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) Certified Coffee Professional

The Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) Certified Coffee Professional is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the specialty coffee industry. This certification is designed to help professionals develop their skills and knowledge, as well as demonstrate their commitment to the specialty coffee industry.

To become SCAA Certified, applicants must complete an online training program and pass an exam. The online training program consists of five modules: Introduction to Specialty Coffee, Brewing Fundamentals, Espresso Fundamentals, Sensory Evaluation Fundamentals, and Business Fundamentals. Each module includes lectures, quizzes, and activities designed to help participants understand the principles behind specialty coffee production. Once all five modules are completed, applicants must pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive certification.

The cost for the SCAA Certified Coffee Professional program is $395 USD. This fee covers the cost of the online training program and exam fee. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $25 USD that must be paid upon registration for the program.

Overall, it takes approximately 6-8 weeks to complete the training program and obtain certification as an SCAA Certified Coffee Professional.

5. National Restaurant Association ServSafe Food Safety Certification

The National Restaurant Association ServSafe Food Safety Certification is a program designed to provide foodservice professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent foodborne illness. The certification is recognized by local, state, and federal health departments as well as the foodservice industry.

It takes approximately 6-8 hours to complete the certification course, which includes an online exam. To get certified, individuals must attend a class or take an online course. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider; however, most courses range from $100-$200. After completing the course, individuals must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

6. National Coffee Association Barista Training Certificate

The National Coffee Association Barista Training Certificate is a professional certification program that provides baristas with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver quality coffee drinks. It is designed to provide baristas with the necessary tools to create a positive customer experience, as well as help them understand the science behind coffee brewing.

The certificate program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on assessment. The online course covers topics such as coffee history, espresso extraction theory, milk steaming techniques, and latte art. It also includes an introduction to specialty coffees and teas. The hands-on assessment requires baristas to demonstrate their skills in making espresso drinks and other specialty beverages.

The entire program takes about 10 hours to complete, depending on the student's learning pace. To get the certificate, students must pass both the online course and the hands-on assessment with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of the National Coffee Association Barista Training Certificate varies depending on where you take it. Generally, it costs between $100-$200 USD for both parts of the program.

7. International Barista & Cafe Academy Barista Certification

The International Barista & Cafe Academy (IBCA) Barista Certification is a professional certification program that provides baristas with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful in the coffee industry. The certification is designed for those who are interested in pursuing a career as a barista, or for those who simply want to learn more about coffee and espresso.

The IBCA Barista Certification is divided into two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 focuses on basic barista skills, such as grinding, tamping, and brewing espresso, while Level 2 covers advanced topics such as latte art and milk steaming. Both levels require passing an exam at the end of the course.

The IBCA Barista Certification can be completed online or in-person at one of their training centers around the world. The online course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete, while the in-person course takes 16 hours over two days.

The cost of the IBCA Barista Certification varies depending on whether you take it online or in person. The online course costs $199 USD, while the in-person course costs $299 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking an exam at a testing center if you choose to do so.

8. National Coffee Brewing Institute Certification

The National Coffee Brewing Institute (NCBI) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of coffee brewing professionals. The NCBI Certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate mastery of the fundamentals of coffee brewing through a comprehensive exam.

The certification process typically takes about two months to complete. To begin the process, applicants must first register for the exam by completing an online application form. Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive a study guide that outlines the topics they need to master in order to pass the exam. After studying and preparing for the exam, applicants must then take and pass a written and practical examination administered by an NCBI Certified Examiner.

The cost of obtaining an NCBI Certification varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200 - $400 USD. This fee covers all expenses associated with taking the exam including registration fees, study materials, and any other related costs.

Once certified, individuals are recognized as experts in coffee brewing and may use their credentials to pursue career opportunities in this field or advance their current positions within their organization.

9. Specialty Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE) Diploma in Coffee Preparation and Service

The Specialty Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE) Diploma in Coffee Preparation and Service is a professional certification program designed to provide coffee professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare, serve, and sell specialty coffee. The program consists of four modules: Introduction to Coffee, Brewing Science, Barista Skills, and Professional Skills.

The course takes approximately 100 hours to complete. This includes self-study time as well as attendance at an SCAE-accredited training center for practical instruction. The cost of the diploma varies depending on the country in which it is taken; however, it typically ranges from €500-€1000.

To get the diploma, students must first register on the SCAE website and complete all four modules. Upon completion of each module, students must pass an exam in order to receive a Certificate of Achievement. Once all four certificates have been obtained, students can apply for the diploma itself. In order to be awarded the diploma, students must also pass a practical assessment at an SCAE-accredited training center.

10. Professional Roaster Guild Roasting Certificate

The Professional Roaster Guild Roasting Certificate is a certification program designed to recognize the skill and knowledge of professional coffee roasters. It is administered by the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) and focuses on the fundamentals of roasting, sensory evaluation, and green coffee selection. The program consists of four courses that must be completed in order to receive the certificate: Introduction to Roasting, Advanced Roasting, Sensory Evaluation, and Green Coffee Selection.

It typically takes about two months to complete all four courses and receive your Professional Roaster Guild Roasting Certificate. Each course requires a minimum number of hours spent studying materials as well as completing quizzes or assignments. Additionally, each course has an associated fee that must be paid before taking the course. The total cost for all four courses ranges from $400-$600 depending on whether you are a SCAA member or not.

To get started with the Professional Roaster Guild Roasting Certificate program, you will need to register with the SCAA website and create an account. Once you have registered, you can select which courses you would like to take and purchase them online. After payment has been processed, you will be able to access your course material immediately and begin working toward your certification.

Do You Really Need a Coffee Shop Manager Certificate?

No, you do not need a Coffee Shop Manager Certificate to become a successful coffee shop manager. While having such a certificate may be helpful and show that you have the necessary skills to manage a coffee shop, it is by no means essential.

In fact, many of the most successful coffee shop managers started out as baristas or employees in general who had no formal training in management. What made them successful was their ability to learn quickly on the job and gain practical experience with managing customers and staff. This type of hands-on learning is just as valuable as any formal training or certification program.

Having said that, there are certainly benefits to getting certified in coffee shop management if you're serious about taking your career in this field further. A certification program can provide you with the knowledge and skills needed for more advanced roles within the industry, such as working with specialty drinks, setting up inventory systems and creating marketing strategies. Furthermore, having a certificate may give you an edge when applying for more senior positions within the industry or even starting your own business.

Ultimately, while having a Coffee Shop Manager Certificate may help you stand out from other applicants and open doors to new opportunities, it is not necessary to successfully manage a coffee shop. With hard work, dedication and some on-the-job experience, anyone can become an effective coffee shop manager without any additional qualifications.

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FAQs About Coffee Shop Manager Certifications

1. What is a Coffee Shop Manager Certification?

Answer: A Coffee Shop Manager Certification is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual's knowledge of the principles and practices of managing a coffee shop business. It is designed to help individuals develop their skills in customer service, product knowledge, financial management, and other areas essential to running a successful coffee shop.

2. Who Should Consider Obtaining a Coffee Shop Manager Certification?

Answer: Individuals who are interested in pursuing a career as a coffee shop manager or who want to increase their job prospects should consider obtaining this certification. It will give employers confidence that you have the necessary skills to manage their business successfully.

3. How Do I Get Certified as a Coffee Shop Manager?

Answer: To become certified as a Coffee Shop Manager, you must complete an approved course from an accredited institution and pass an exam given by either the National Coffee Association or the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA). The course typically covers topics such as customer service, product knowledge, financial management, and other areas essential to running a successful coffee shop.

4. Is There Any Prerequisite for Obtaining a Coffee Shop Manager Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require applicants to have at least one year of experience working in the foodservice industry before taking the certification exam. Additionally, some courses may require prerequisites such as basic math or business skills that can be acquired through online courses or through continuing education classes at local community colleges.

5. How Much Does it Cost to Become Certified as a Coffee Shop Manager?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which organization you choose to obtain your certification from and what type of course you take (online or in-person). Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $200-$500 USD depending on these factors.