SCA Introduction to Coffee · Downtown Los Angeles Where every cup begins.
Introduction to Coffee is the starting point of the Specialty Coffee Association’s Coffee Skills Program: a single 4–6 hour class on coffee’s journey from its origins in Ethiopia to the global crop it is today — growing, processing, grading, roasting and brewing. No experience needed. We teach it at Soro Coffee, 601 Wilshire Blvd in downtown Los Angeles — in English or Korean, taught by Rock Kim, an Authorized SCA Trainer (AST) and licensed Q Instructor.
At a glance
- Level
- One level — the starting point of the SCA Coffee Skills Program
- Length
- 4–6 hours
- Who for
- Anyone curious about coffee — no experience needed
- Diplomas
- Not linked to an SCA Skills Diploma
- Next step
- The Foundation level of Barista Skills, Brewing, Roasting or Sensory Skills
- Taught by
- Rock Kim, an Authorized SCA Trainer (AST) and licensed Q Instructor
- Language
- English or Korean
- Where
- Soro Coffee, 601 Wilshire Blvd, downtown Los Angeles
One class · 4–6 hours
The whole value chain.
One overview of coffee from the farm to the cup — the best place to start.
01
Origins
Coffee’s journey from its origins in Ethiopia to the global crop it is today.
02
Growing & processing
Growing, processing and grading: the work that happens before a coffee reaches the roaster.
03
Roasting & brewing
Roasting and brewing: how green coffee becomes the cup you drink.
Questions
Good to know
Do I need any coffee experience?
No. Introduction to Coffee is the starting point of the SCA Coffee Skills Program, and no experience is needed.
How long is Introduction to Coffee?
4–6 hours, in a single level — the SCA’s standard length for the course.
Does it count toward an SCA diploma?
No. The SCA doesn’t link Introduction to Coffee to any of its Skills Diplomas. Certificates from the Foundation, Intermediate and Professional levels of Barista Skills, Brewing, Roasting and Sensory Skills do count toward one or more of them, depending on the course and level.
What should I take next?
The Foundation level of Barista Skills, Brewing, Roasting or Sensory Skills — whichever part of coffee you want to explore. If you’re working toward the Q Grader course, the SCA points earlier-stage learners to Sensory Skills or Introduction to Coffee first.
Can I take it in Korean?
Yes. Classes can be taught in Korean as well as English — just tell us which you’d prefer when you inquire. There’s also an academy page in Korean (한국어).
Where is the class held?
At Soro Coffee, 601 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90017, in downtown Los Angeles.
Next step
Ask about the next class
Send an inquiry and we’ll get back to you by email. Class dates are set based on demand. Or email education@sorocoffee.com.
More SCA courses at Soro