SCA Evolved Q Grader Course
Unlock the pinnacle of coffee sensory expertise with the SCA Evolved Q Grader Course. Developed by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) and built upon the innovative Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) framework, this advanced program is the definitive credential for professionals in cup quality, green-bean evaluation, and value-based coffee assessment.
Course Overview: Over six full days, you’ll engage in intensive lectures, hands-on cupping labs, defect identification, triangulation exercises, expressive sensory profiling, market-based affective assessments, and rigorous examinations. Upon successful completion, you’ll earn the SCA Evolved Q Grader License — a globally respected mark of excellence recognized throughout the specialty coffee industry.
What you'll learn:
Apply the Physical Assessment of green coffee: color, moisture, bean size, and defect identification.
Execute the Descriptive Assessment: create sensory maps, articulate flavor and aroma profiles, and apply intensity scales.Conduct the Affective Assessment: evaluate coffees from varied market perspectives, assessing quality beyond personal preference.
Integrate Extrinsic/Value Discovery Assessment: explore provenance, producer practices, certifications, and storytelling in value-based evaluation.Build and calibrate sensory acuity through triangulation challenges, taste drills, and practical exams.
Who should take this course:
This course is designed for seasoned coffee professionals who already have experience in cupping, green coffee evaluation, or quality control.
Ideal participants include:
• Roasters
• Green-coffee buyers/importers
• Quality control managers
• Cup competition judges
• Coffee consultants and educators
If you’re newer to sensory or green-bean evaluation, we recommend completing foundational sensory modules before this program.
Course Format:
- Delivery: In-person and instructor-led
- Duration: 6 full days from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm CDT
- Includes: Classroom learning, live sensory and cupping activities, and access to digital resources.
Why study at Firdancer:
At Firedancer Coffee Educators, we believe that great coffee education blends science, sensory intuition, and real-world application. Our instructors are internationally certified SCA trainers and Q Graders with years of experience in quality control, sourcing, and professional development.
When you study with Firedancer, you gain:
Hands-on mentorship from instructors who actively work within the global specialty coffee community.
Immersive, small-group learning environments that foster personalized guidance and in-depth discussion.
Real-world context — our programs go beyond theory to equip you with the practical calibration skills that buyers, roasters, and producers rely on daily.
A supportive network of alumni and educators who continue to mentor, collaborate, and share insights long after the course concludes.
Whether you’re advancing your career, refining your sensory skills, or building credibility in the coffee value chain, Firedancer Coffee Educators offers the depth, expertise, and authenticity to help you excel.
Payment & Cancellation, if applicable:
Once registration and tuition have been received for a course, we consider this to be a firm commitment for attendance. Last-minute participant substitutions are difficult to arrange, although we understand emergencies may arise that can affect attendance at programs offered by Firedancer.
We have established the following policy in case of course cancellation:
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If cancellation is made over 15 days before the program start date, 100% of the tuition, less a 10% cancellation fee, will be refunded, or 100% of the tuition is transferable to another program and/or date.
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If cancellation is made within less than 15 days prior to the program date, the entire tuition is non-refundable; however, you may transfer to a future date.
Firedancer reserves the right to cancel or reschedule events as necessary. In such a case, this will occur two weeks before the start of the event. Tuition may be refunded in full or transferred to a future seminar or course. In no event shall Firedancer Coffee Consultants be liable for any cancellation or change penalties assessed by an airline or hotel as a result of course date changes or cancellations.
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Tuition & Certificate Fees:
INCLUDED WITH TUITION: Student handbook, class activity materials, SCA certificate fees, certificate of completion (Food Safety and Skill Building workshops), snacks, and lunch (for classes longer than 6 hours).
NOT INCLUDED WITH TUITION: Airfare, transportation, lodging, or other personal expenses.