#Japan #Tokyo #UCC Coffee Academy #SCA Q Grader #Coffee Education

UCC Coffee Academy Introduces the SCA Certified Q Grader Program

On April 7, 2023, UCC Coffee Academy will launch its SCA Certified Q Grader Program, marking a significant advancement in coffee education in Japan. Designed specifically for professionals engaged in various facets of the coffee industry, this program aligns with the latest international coffee quality assessment standards. As Japan's exclusive institution offering this program in the Japanese language, UCC Coffee Academy aims to support baristas, roasters, and distribution professionals in their career development.

The new program embraces the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA), a framework established by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) in October 2025. It aims to certify qualified individuals in innovative coffee evaluation practices that go beyond mere flavor and encompass various aspects of coffee valuation. The program is designed for a wide range of stakeholders in the coffee industry—whether they be those involved in operations in home-roasting stores, those pursuing new experiences in distribution and café settings, or those focused on quality assurance in production.

Since its inception in 2007 in Kobe, and later expanding with a Tokyo location in 2015, UCC Coffee Academy has been pivotal in nurturing coffee enthusiasts and professionals alike. The Academy has seen almost 197,000 participants over the years, aiming for a remarkable milestone of 200,000 attendees by the end of 2025. This demonstrates its integral role in the coffee industry's educational landscape, providing resources for both novices and seasoned professionals.

The instructors for the new Q Grader Program have undergone rigorous training, being the first in the world to receive certification through SCA Education Teams. Their successful completion of this training makes them adept at conducting the Q Grader program in Japanese, effectively removing previous language barriers that limited access to quality education in coffee.

This program will not only enhance participants' appreciation for coffee but also equip them with the analytical skills necessary for understanding customer preferences and market tastes. Through CVA, students will learn to evaluate coffee from multiple perspectives, enhancing their competency in global markets.

The inaugural session will take place over six days, running from April 7 to 12 at the Tokyo campus, followed by subsequent sessions at both Tokyo and Kobe campuses. Each session can accommodate up to 24 participants, ensuring intimate learning experiences driven by specialized instructors. Participants can apply through the Academy’s website.

In alignment with UCC Group’s mission of “unleashing the power of coffee for a better world,” this program reflects a commitment to sustainability and responsible coffee sourcing. UCC continues to innovate within the coffee world, fostering not just the consumption of coffee but enriching the cultural experience surrounding it. Hence, the introduction of the SCA Certified Q Grader Program is not just about education; it’s about creating new possibilities for the profession and contributing to the growth of the coffee industry worldwide.

For more information, prospective students can visit the official UCC Coffee Academy website for additional details on the program and application process. Whether you're an enthusiast eager to dive deeper or a professional looking to refine your skills, this program promises to be a transformative experience.

About UCC Group

Founded in 1933, UCC Group has established a unique business model encompassing every aspect from cultivation to sales in the coffee industry. Their revenues reached ¥397.9 billion in the fiscal year ending December 2024, with a presence spanning Japan, Asia, Europe, Oceania, and North America. With a forward-looking vision, UCC prioritizes sustainable practices and innovation, continually transforming the coffee landscape. Their ventures include the world’s first canned coffee and pioneering hydrogen roasted coffee production, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to challenging conventions and creating new value in coffee.

For inquiries regarding the UCC Coffee Academy, please reach out via email at [email protected]. For media inquiries, please contact UCC Japan Corporation at [email protected].