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  • / Certificate in Rum and Sugar Cane Spirits

Certificate in Rum and Sugar Cane Spirits

(SCS101)

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 immersive, 10-week course. From the Caribbean Islands to South America and beyond, journey through the cultural and geographical origins of these beloved libations.

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. 

The next cohort starts Monday, September 15th. 

Course Registration fee: $1,199  Early Bird Price: $959 through August 31st.  

 

Online, 30 hours, 10 weeks, digital credential

Questions? Email pdi@lynchburg.edu

 

 

 

Rum Glass
Duration: 10 weeks
Dates: September 15th - November 17th, 2025
Format: Weekly synchronous online sessions (Mondays) from 7 – 8:30 p.m. ET 
Sugar Cane Plants In Field
  • Discover the origins and significance of spirits made from sugar cane.
  • Explore the rich and diverse history of rum from around the world.
  • Learn the intricate processes involved in the production of rum.
  • Understand the various types and classifications of rum and other cane spirits.
  • Study different brands and what makes each unique.
  • Master the art of tasting and evaluating cane spirits.
  • Get creative with rum-based cocktails and beverages.
  • Enhance your ability to describe and differentiate cane spirits.
  • Enjoy fun facts and trivia about rum and cane spirits.
  • And more!

 

Rum Barrels

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
A non-credit certificate in Rum and Sugar Cane Spirits would be suitable for various individuals interested in gaining knowledge and expertise, including:

  • 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

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.  
 
Price: $959.00
Quantity:

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University of Lynchburg

  • About
  • Courses
      • Course Catalog
        • Most Popular Online Certificate Programs
        • Arts
        • Business
        • Cannabis Studies
          • Professional Certificates
          • Workforce Certificates
        • Education
        • Human Resources
        • Medical / Healthcare
        • Travel, Tourism, Hospitality
        • Technology
        • UX / UI Design
      • All Courses
      • Basko
  • Graduate Programs
  • University of Lynchburg



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