Online Barista Training Programs
Online barista training programs serve to make it easy for you to jump behind the coffee bar and start pulling some amazing espresso shots.
In addition, a solid barista training program should prepare you to perform other barista job requirements in a variety of work settings. From a high-end café to a high traffic drive-thru coffee stand, a barista training program should provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.
For example, a barista program can help you maintain and keep coffee equipment and other appliances that you might be working in tiptop shape.
In-Person Barista Training Vs. Online Barista Training
In-person barista training programs are an optimal option and can be effective. But they also may not be necessary to learn everything you need to know to be a great barista. Most of the time, you will be sitting in a coffee class listening to theory. While the training program offers a few hours of practice of an espresso machine, it might not be enough – and you’ll have to take a few more classes, just like with driving.
While being physically in a coffee workstation and handling the portafilter may provide you with the real-world experience you want, it isn’t necessary. An online barista training course would be just as practical. This is especially true when discussing fundamental theoretical aspects of coffee processing, equipment handling, and instructions on building drinks.
Let’s review the cons and cons of both options below:
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Pros of in-person barista training program
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| Cons of online barista training program
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Cons of in-person barista training program
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Online Barista Training Is Effective
Getting the knowledge and information you need to be a barista through an online barista training program is an effective way to start a career in coffee.
Suppose you have little or no barista experience. In that case, an online course may even be more suitable for you because you will spend time developing an understanding of coffee, familiarizing yourself with coffee equipment, dial-in espresso, steam and pour milk, or a milk substitute. All this can be done affordably, and you can go at your own pace.
Many people prefer learning with this online modality at first. This allows them the prior experience and knowledge to utilize and maximize their in-person training at the coffee shop they get hired at.
One of the most significant advantages of an online barista training program is the convenience of studying anywhere you can. You don’t need to compromise on other obligations – like work, homeschooling, or learning – you can listen to an online barista training lesson at any time.
How Much Does It Cost to Train as a Barista?
An online barista training course is more affordable than an in-person course. While an in-person training course can cost you up to $500 – $1000 per two-day weekend, a comparably thorough online barista training course may only be a fraction of that cost.
Much of the cost of an in-person barista training course must cover the significant overhead of a coffee educator, brick-and-mortar facilities, coffee equipment, utilities, inventory (coffee, milk, syrups), and other essential costs like insurance, permitting, etc.
There will be a significant difference between in-person barista training versus online barista training. It can cost you up to $150 per hour to train with a coffee educator or barista trainer.
On the other hand, an online course should cost you less than $100 – while an in-person training program would cost you $250 – $500 per day.
Are Barista Courses Worth the Trouble?
Yes! Taking a barista course is definitely worth the time and effort. For starters, there is so much to learn about coffee. All this theory can be learned conveniently at home. It’ll give you the confidence to get hired and start your practical barista training at a coffee shop.
Considering that coffee is a complex beverage with nearly limitless potential to serve various drinks, getting a robust online education on coffee can help give you the foundation to succeed.
Additionally, learning about manual brewing, the basics of coffee roasting, and extracting the best espresso shot will only add to your competency as a new barista.
Understanding the coffee bar workflow when building your espresso-based drinks can be learned online. Additionally, it can be effectively learned at your own pace. So, yes, barista courses are worth it!
Learning Barista Skills Online Is Convenient
Learning how to be a barista online is convenient and flexible. You can learn at your own pace and revisit topics that may seem foreign to you. Further, you can learn at a time that fits your schedule.
Whether you are working full-time, going to school, or having other obligations, taking an online barista training course that provides you with everything you need to start a barista job can be advantageous.
You shouldn’t expect that an in-person barista training program will teach you to brew coffee perfectly. So it makes sense to study online and then get your actual training at a coffee shop that hires you.
What Should an Online Barista Training Program Offer
Every job has its own vocabulary and terminology. Working in a coffee shop is no different. Therefore, every online barista training course should offer students a comprehensive directory of barista terminology.
It would help if you learned the ins and outs of a coffee bar workstation. This includes common pieces of equipment that you will be using. In addition, essential discussions on coffee roasting, grinding, and extracting coffee will be a cornerstone of a barista training program.
As with every latte, is the need to properly steam milk, pour and serve coffee to your customers. An online barista course would need to address these critical elements as well. Finally, coffee workflow and equipment maintenance will be essential too.
Main elements of an online barista training program:
- Terminology
- Coffee workstation
- Coffee equipment and maintenance
- Roasting
- Coffee grinding
- Espresso extraction
- Milk steaming
- Latte art
- Barista workflow
- Customer service
- Barista job search
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