Uni of Melbourne launches dedicated coffee subject – BeanScene
The University of Melbourne has introduced a new undergraduate subject dedicated entirely to coffee, thought to be one of the first university-level courses on the subject in Australia.
Coffee: Science, Trade & Culture examines the commodity from a range of perspectives, including economics and international trade, agriculture, health and sensory science, history, and culture.
The exploration of sustainable practices is a core theme of the course, alongside a focus on the supply chain and the socioeconomic implications for coffee-producing nations.
As part of its subject handbook, The University of Melbourne says those who complete the course will come away with the skills to: critically assess coffee flavours related to origin, terroir, and roasting process; critique and interpret research on coffee’s impact on health; identify and discuss cultural aspects of coffee; analyse supply chains in the global market; and evaluate the role of agriculture in international relations and in shaping societies and economies.
The first session of the 12-week course started in Semester Two 2026, which commenced in the week beginning 27 July.
“Renowned as Australia’s coffee capital, Melbourne’s vibrant coffee culture makes it an ideal backdrop for studying this influential beverage, allowing students to experience firsthand the city’s passion for coffee while gaining a broader understanding of its global impact,” reads The University of Melbourne’s course handbook.
Source: Bean Scene Mag