Patrick Oconnell
There are several ways to get certified in cheese. The American Cheese Society offers two industry certifications: ACS Certified Cheese Professional® (ACS CCP®) and ACS Certified Cheese Sensory Evaluator® (ACS CCSE®). The exam for the former covers six task areas, including cheese marketing strategies, proper food storage, milk composition, and inventory management. The exam for the latter is called the ACS T.A.S.T.E. Test®, which evaluates knowledge and skills in assessing the quality, flavor, texture, and appearance of cheese. The Art of Cheese also offers cheesemaker certification with Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum level classes. The Academy of Cheese offers another certification program that leads to a Master of Cheese Accreditation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Certification Name | Certified Cheese Professional® (CCP™) |
| Certification Provider | American Cheese Society (ACS) |
| Eligibility Criteria | High school or GED basic education, 4,000 hours of work experience in the cheese profession, or 2,000 hours of work experience and 2,000 hours of a combination of work experience, formal education, or professional development |
| Exam Duration | 3 hours |
| Number of Questions | 150 |
| Exam Format | Multiple choice |
| Exam Topics | Cheese marketing strategies, food storage, milk composition, inventory management, history of cheese, food regulations, customer engagement programs, cheese quality, flavour, texture, and appearance |
| Exam Frequency | Annual |
| Exam Location | Richmond, Virginia |
| Exam Preparation | Online study resources, exam prep courses |
| Exam Retake Policy | Retake allowed without an application fee; after three failures, additional coursework is required |
| Benefits of Certification | Recognized professional achievement, demonstrates knowledge and skills to stakeholders, exemplifies commitment to the cheese industry, enhances employability |
| Certification Levels | Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum |
Explore related products
![Goodles Shella Good Aged White Cheddar and Shells Pasta - Nutrient Packed with Real Cheese, Fiber, Protein, Prebiotics, Plants, & Vegetables | Non-GMO, Organic Ingredients [Shella Good, 6 oz. 1 Pack]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61jX4+c2NwL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
What You'll Learn
The American Cheese Society's Certified Cheese Professional Exam
The American Cheese Society Certified Cheese Professional Exam (ACS CCP® Exam) is a certification for professionals in the cheese industry. The exam is administered by the American Cheese Society (ACS), which is responsible for setting standards, guidelines, and requirements for individuals seeking this professional accreditation. The ACS CCP® Exam is a challenging and comprehensive test that covers a wide range of topics related to the cheese industry, including cheese knowledge, best practices, and various "task areas" such as marketing strategies, food storage, milk composition, and inventory management.
To be eligible for the exam, candidates must meet specific work experience and education requirements. The ACS requires a minimum of 4,000 hours of work experience in the cheese industry over the last six years or a combination of 2,000 hours of work experience and 2,000 hours of formal education or professional development. The exam consists of 150 questions and is three hours long, and it is offered annually in Richmond, Virginia. However, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the exam was conducted online for the first time in September 2020.
The ACS CCP® designation signifies that an individual has acquired thorough knowledge and expertise demanded within the cheese industry. It demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and care, as well as a profound understanding of cheese and its science. Passing the exam gives individuals the credential of ACS Certified Cheese Professional®, which can be used in official correspondence and addresses.
The Academy of Cheese also offers courses that are recognized towards meeting the eligibility requirements of the CCP® Exam. These courses provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue their passion for cheese and achieve professional recognition in the industry.
The History Behind Colby Cheese's Name
You may want to see also
The Art of Cheese classes
To receive your certificate, you must complete each class and submit a photo of the cheese you made at any stage of the process. You are also required to submit a short write-up about what you learned after completing each level. The programme offers flexibility, allowing you to start at a lower level and move to a higher level later. You can also receive credit for classes purchased individually if you want to apply them to a certification package.
In addition to practical cheesemaking skills, The Art of Cheese classes also offers insights into the art and science of cheese. The programme helps you understand the underlying reasons for different outcomes in the cheesemaking process, enhancing your knowledge and expertise. The certification demonstrates your commitment to the cheese industry and showcases your ability to effectively work within its various domains.
Overall, The Art of Cheese classes provides a comprehensive and instructive pathway toward becoming a certified cheesemaker. The programme equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to craft a diverse range of cheeses while also offering the flexibility to cater to your individual needs and interests. By completing the certification, you will not only gain practical expertise but also join a community of dedicated cheese enthusiasts.
How Long Does Mozzarella Cheese Last?
You may want to see also
Eligibility criteria and preparation
To become a certified cheese professional, there are several eligibility criteria and preparation strategies to consider. Firstly, it is important to note that the American Cheese Society (ACS) is a prominent organization that offers two industry certifications: ACS Certified Cheese Professional® (ACS CCP®) and ACS Certified Cheese Sensory Evaluator® (ACS CCSE®). These certifications are highly regarded and involve different eligibility criteria and preparation processes.
For the ACS CCP® certification, candidates must meet specific educational and work experience requirements. They should have a high school or GED basic education and document 4,000 hours (approximately two years) of paid or unpaid work experience in the cheese profession over the past six years. Alternatively, they can provide evidence of 2,000 hours of work experience combined with 2,000 hours of formal education, professional development, or other acceptable forms of experience. This certification is suitable for professionals in the cheese industry who want to demonstrate their knowledge and competencies across all domains of the industry.
Preparing for the ACS CCP® Exam involves a significant amount of commitment and study. The exam covers six "task areas," including cheese marketing strategies, proper food storage, milk composition, inventory management, cheese history, and customer engagement programs. Candidates are advised to spend several months or even years preparing for this challenging exam. ACS provides study resources and exam blueprints to help candidates identify the areas that require more focus during their preparation.
On the other hand, the ACS CCSE® certification is obtained by passing the ACS T.A.S.T.E. Test®, which evaluates an individual's ability to assess the quality, flavor, texture, and appearance of cheese using sensory and organoleptic assessments. This certification is a mark of excellence and reflects a deep commitment to cheese care and service.
Additionally, there are other cheese certification options available, such as the Academy of Cheese's Master of Cheese Accreditation, which offers a structured program leading from beginner to Master of Cheese levels. Online courses and classes, such as those offered by The Art of Cheese, can also provide comprehensive preparation for cheesemaking certifications. These courses often include video tutorials, tips, and hands-on instructions for crafting various cheeses, along with guidance on the cheese maturation process.
The Hunt for Cheese in Once Human
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![Goodles Twist My Parm Asiago and Parmesan with Spirals - Nutrient Packed with Real Cheese, Fiber, Protein, Prebiotics, Plants, & Vegetables | Non-GMO, Organic Ingredients [Twist My Parm, 6 oz. 1 Pack]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61RLCOZJ1LL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Retaking the exam
The Certified Cheese Professional® (CCP) Exam offered by the American Cheese Society (ACS) is a challenging test that covers a wide range of topics related to the cheese industry. It is designed to assess an individual's knowledge and skills in various domains of the cheese industry, including cheese-making, marketing, food storage, milk composition, inventory management, and customer engagement. Due to its comprehensive nature, many candidates spend months or even years preparing for this exam.
The American Cheese Society allows candidates who were unsuccessful in passing the Certified Cheese Professional® (CCP) Exam to retake it. The Society understands that passing this challenging exam may take multiple attempts, and they provide a supportive pathway for candidates to persist in their journey towards certification. Here is what you need to know about retaking the exam:
- The next attempt: Candidates can retake the exam at the next scheduled exam date. They need to submit an updated application to ACS, ensuring that any new information is included in their original application. It is important to meet the application deadline for the year you plan to retake the exam. Additionally, the application fee is waived for the second attempt.
- After the second attempt: If a candidate is unsuccessful in their second attempt, they are welcome to apply again for the following year. The American Cheese Society is committed to providing multiple opportunities for candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
- After the third failure: In the unfortunate event of a third unsuccessful attempt, candidates are required to enhance their knowledge and skills further before registering for another attempt. They must provide documentation of additional coursework or certification in the content area where they previously demonstrated deficiency, as indicated by the Diagnostic Report. This step ensures that candidates actively address their knowledge gaps and improve their understanding of cheese-related topics.
The American Cheese Society's approach to exam retakes strikes a balance between providing candidates with multiple chances and encouraging them to invest in their professional development. This process ensures that certified cheese professionals have a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, benefiting both themselves and the industry.
Chick-fil-A's Pimento Cheese: Why It's No Longer on the Menu
You may want to see also
Benefits of certification
The benefits of obtaining a certification in cheese are numerous, ranging from enhanced knowledge and professional development to improved customer service and competitive advantages. Here are some detailed explanations of these benefits:
Enhanced Knowledge and Professional Development:
The process of obtaining a cheese certification, such as the ACS Certified Cheese Professional® Exam (ACS CCP® Exam), encourages individuals to deepen their understanding of cheese and its various domains. The exam covers a comprehensive range of topics, including cheese marketing strategies, food storage, milk composition, inventory management, cheese history, and customer engagement programs. This knowledge equips professionals with the skills necessary to work effectively in the cheese industry and can enhance their professional development.
Improved Customer Service:
Cheese certification helps professionals provide improved customer service. The broad view of artisan and traditional cheese that certification offers enables professionals to better assist customers in finding the right cheese for their recipes and pairings. It also enhances their ability to educate customers about different types of cheese, answer queries, and make cheese more accessible and approachable.
Competitive Advantages:
ACS certification bestows a distinguished title that exemplifies proven knowledge and professionalism in the cheese industry. Certified individuals can use their titles in official correspondence and address, adding credibility to their expertise. The ACS maintains an online directory of certified professionals, providing a competitive edge for job seekers and their employers. Businesses can also benefit by claiming to have "Certified Cheese Professionals® On Staff," enhancing their reputation and attracting customers seeking expert advice.
Personal Accomplishment and Confidence:
Obtaining a cheese certification can be a significant personal accomplishment for individuals. The challenging nature of the exam and the dedication required to pass it lead to a sense of achievement and boosted self-confidence. The process of studying and preparing for the exam encourages individuals to expand their knowledge and improve their skills, benefiting both their professional and personal growth.
Industry Recognition and Credibility:
ACS cheese certification is widely recognized in the industry as a mark of excellence and expertise. It signifies an individual's commitment to the cheese industry and their dedication to continuous learning and professional development. This recognition can open doors to new career opportunities, industry connections, and networking prospects.
Cheese Escape: Unlocking the Grey Key
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Candidates must have a high school or GED basic education and document 4,000 hours (two years) of paid or unpaid work experience in the cheese profession over the past six years, or 2,000 hours of the same and 2,000 hours of any combination of work experience and formal or continuing education or professional development deemed acceptable by the American Cheese Society (ACS).
The exam consists of 150 questions and covers six "task areas", including cheese marketing strategies, proper food storage, milk composition, and inventory management.
The exam is administered annually in Richmond, Virginia by the American Cheese Society. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the test was conducted online for the first time in 2020.
Candidates can retake the exam at the next scheduled exam date. If a candidate does not pass a second time, they are welcome to apply again the following year. After three failed attempts, candidates must present documentation of additional coursework in the content area of deficiency.
Yes, there are other certifications available, such as the Academy of Cheese's Master of Cheese Accreditation and The Art of Cheese's Cheesemaker Certification, which offers Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum level classes.
