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  • / Certificate in Rum and Sugar Cane Spirits

Certificate in Rum and Sugar Cane Spirits

(SCS101)

Discover Global Rum History, Production Techniques, and Flavor Styles

Join Greg Hill, Master Rummelier®, as we delve into the rich history, diverse production methods, and nuanced flavors of rum and sugar cane spirits in this immerseive, 10-week course.  From the Caribbean Islands to South America and beyond, journey through the cultural and geographical origins of these beloved libations. 

What Is Rum? How It’s Made, Rum Types, Spiced Rum & How to Make Great Rum Cocktails

Throughout the course, participants will explore various rum styles, including white, dark, aged, and spiced rums, as well as lesser-known sugar cane spirits such as cachaça and rhum agricole. Gain a deeper understanding of the distillation process, aging techniques, and regional influences that shape the distinctive characteristics of each spirit.

Explore the role of terroir, climate, and raw materials in the production of rum and sugar cane spirits, and discover how these factors contribute to the unique identity of each product.

Participants will have the opportunity to experiment with cocktail mixology, learning how to create classic and contemporary rum-based drinks. Gain insights into the art of pairing rum with food, and explore the cultural significance of rum in global culinary traditions.

Whether you're a seasoned rum aficionado, experienced server, hospitality entrepreneur, or a curious newcomer, this course offers a comprehensive journey into the world of rum and sugar cane spirits, providing a deeper appreciation for these time-honored beverages and the cultures that produce them.

Upon completion of this non-credit, professional development course, participants earn a digital certificate from the University of Lynchburg and the Level 1 Rummelier® certification, a $299 value, included in the registration fee.  

Participants must be 21 or older. 

Next Cohort Starts: February 9, 2026

Early Bird Discount: Register now and save $240 off the $1,199 registration fee. 

Online, 30 hours, 10 weeks, digital credential

Questions? Complete the form below.

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Rum Glass
Duration: 10 weeks
Dates: February 9 - April 13, 2026
Format: Weekly synchronous online sessions (Mondays) from 7 – 8:30 p.m. ET 
Sugar Cane Plants In Field

    What You Will Learn: Rum History, Culture, Production & Tasting Skills

    Explore the full production lifecycle of rum and cane spirits—sugar-cane cultivation, distillation, aging, bottling and marketing.


  1. Discover how terroir, climate and raw materials shape flavour profiles, blending styles and regional identity.

  2. Taste and evaluate white, dark, aged and spiced rums, plus lesser-known cane spirits such as cachaça and rhum agricole.

  3. Master mixology fundamentals for rum-based cocktails and learn how to pair rum with food and culture.

  4. Strengthen your professional vocabulary and service skills in rum and sugar-cane spirits contexts.

  5. Build connections with hospitality, beverage retail, tourism and event-planning sectors.

 

Rum Barrels

Course Modules: Rum History, Production, Tasting Techniques & Industry Knowledge

Duration: 10 weeks
Format: Weekly synchronous online sessions (Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m. ET)
Next Cohort Starts: February 9 , 2026

Module 1: Run and Sugar Cane Spirits, A Global Perspective

Module 2: Tasting Techniques and Flavor Profiling

Module 3: Sugar Cane History Part 1: World Focus

Module 4: Sugar Cane History Part 2: American Focus

Module 5: Types of Rum and Cane Spirits

Module 6: Rum & Sugar Cane Spirits Production Process

Module 7: Production Process / Optional Virago Distillery Visit

Module 8: Rum Brands and Marketing

Module 9: Mixology with Rum and the Sugar Cane Spirit

Module 10: Terminology, Resources, and Trivia

Bartender making a cocktail with orange slices

Who Should Enroll: Hospitality Professionals, Rum Enthusiasts & Industry Entrepreneurs

Hospitality Professionals: 
Bartenders, servers, and restaurant managers who want to enhance their understanding of rum and sugar cane spirits to better serve their customers.

Enthusiasts: 
People passionate about spirits, especially rum, who want to deepen their knowledge, appreciation, and tasting skills. 

Entrepreneurs: 
Individuals looking to start a business in the spirits industry, such as opening a rum bar or a distillery.

Tourism Industry Workers: 
Those working in regions known for rum production or tourism, and those in areas serving tourism visitors. 

Event Planners: 
Professionals involved in organizing events such as tastings, festivals, or themed parties that feature rum and sugar cane spirits. 

Retail Staff:  
Employees of liquor stores or specialty shops who want to offer informed recommendations and customer service related to rum products. 
Photo of Greg Hill
Greg Hill,
Royal Rum Society, Founder
Master Rummelier®
Award-Winning Author
Educator
Speaker
Consultant

About the Instructor: Master Rummelier® Greg Hill, Rum Expert & Educator


Master Rummelier® Greg D. Hill is an avid rum enthusiast, co-owner of a rum-centric cocktail lounge in Virginia, and a champion of the sugar cane spirit.  As developer of the Rummulier® Certificate program, he has leveraged his 35+ years of adult education experience to create curriculums for all levels of rum enthusiasts.  The Rummelier® program currently has hundreds of graduates that represent over 30 countries worldwide.  He founded the Richmond Rum Society, with roots dating back to 2010, along with founding the Royal Rum Society in 2017, which has multiple chapters globally.  

 

An award-wining author, he has published 12 books on various topics, including "It Came From The Cane" - a non-traditional book offering readers a fun-filled adventure into the world of rum. 

 

In 2023, he published the first edition of "The Rummelier Magazine", with articles contributed by rum enthusiasts from around the world.  Additionally, he is a regular contributor to Newsweek Magazine, as a member of their Expert Forum.  
 

Frequently Asked Questions: Rum Course Content, Requirements & Certification

  • What does this course cover?

  • Do I need prior spirits experience?  No, both beginners and professionals are welcome.  
  • Are any in-person visits required?  No.  There is an optional distillery visit, which is broadcast live.
  • What equipment or materials will I need?  List of recommended rum samples, tasting glass, notebook.
  • What certifcation will I receive?  Digital certificate and Level 1 Rummelier®

What Students Say: Rum Course Reviews & Student Testimonials

As a current marketger in the rum industry, not only did this course increase my knowledge of the different types of processes and variants of sugar cane spirits, but provided a deeper understanding of the history that was ingrained in almost all aspects of colonization across the world.  John, Richmond, VA

Anyone in hospitality should take this course!  You will learn more about rum and not just consider it a drink from the tropics.  Impress your friends and co-workers with what you have learned! Chad, Swarthmore, PA

I had been following rum for almost thirty years.  The course and the instructor filled in the blanks and made it a fun learning experience.  I wish it would have lasted longer.  Bruce, Key West, FL

Price: $959.00
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University of Lynchburg

  • About
  • Courses
      • Course Catalog
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