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How Much Are Bartending Classes? A Comprehensive Guide to Costs and Options

If you want to work as a bartender, you might be curious about the price of bartending school. The location, length, and caliber of the program are a few variables that affect the price of bartending classes.

bartender showing how to mix cocktails in a bartending class

For bartender classes, you should budget anything from $200 to $1500.

Online bartending school courses are frequently far less expensive than traditional classroom instruction. Online courses often cost less than $100 and give you the flexibility to study at home at your own speed.

If you’re wanting to work in a busy bar or restaurant, keep in mind that online courses might not give you as much hands-on experience as programs that you attend in person.

Bartending Classes Overview

If you’re interested in becoming a bartender, you may be wondering how much bartending classes cost and what they entail. In this section, we’ll provide an overview of bartending classes, including what they are and the different types available.

What are Bartending Classes?

Bartending classes are courses designed to teach you the skills and knowledge necessary to become a bartender. These classes cover a wide range of topics, including cocktail recipes, mixology techniques, customer service, and alcohol laws and regulations.

Most bartending classes are taught by experienced bartenders or mixologists who can provide valuable insights and real-world tips.

Types of Bartending Classes

There are several types of bartending classes available, each with its own focus and level of intensity. Some of the most common types of bartending classes include:

  • Online bartending classes: These classes are entirely online, allowing you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. Online bartending classes are typically less expensive than in-person classes and can be a good option if you have a busy schedule or prefer to learn from home.
  • In-person bartending classes: These classes take place in a physical location, such as a bartending school or community college. In-person classes may be more expensive than online classes, but they provide hands-on experience and the opportunity to network with other aspiring bartenders.
  • Mixology classes: Mixology classes focus specifically on the art of mixing cocktails and may be more advanced than general bartending classes. These classes may cover topics such as flavor profiles, ingredient selection, and advanced mixing techniques.
  • Flair bartending classes: Flair bartending classes teach you how to create visually impressive cocktails using tricks and techniques such as juggling bottles and shakers. These classes are typically more advanced and may require some prior bartending experience.
  • Private bartending classes: Private bartending classes are tailored to your individual needs and goals. These classes may be more expensive than group classes, but they provide one-on-one attention and personalized instruction.

Overall, bartending classes can be a great way to learn the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful bartender.

Whether you opt for online or in-person classes, general or specialized classes, you’ll gain valuable insights and experience that can help you stand out in a competitive job market.

Cost of Bartending Classes

If you’re considering becoming a bartender, you might be wondering how much bartending classes cost. The cost of bartending classes can vary depending on several factors.

In this section, we’ll explore the factors that affect the cost of bartending classes and the average cost you can expect to pay.

bartender show how to make cocktail to trainee

Factors that Affect the Cost of Bartending Classes

The following are some of the factors that can affect the cost of bartending classes:

  • Location: The cost of bartending classes can vary depending on where you live. In general, classes in larger cities tend to be more expensive than in smaller towns.
  • Duration: The length of the course can affect the cost of bartending classes. Longer courses tend to be more expensive than shorter ones.
  • In-person vs. online: In-person classes tend to be more expensive than online classes. However, in-person classes may offer more hands-on experience and networking opportunities.
  • Curriculum: The curriculum of the course can affect the cost of bartending classes. Courses that cover more advanced techniques or specialized areas of bartending, such as flair bartending, may be more expensive than basic courses.

Average Cost of Bartending Classes

The cost of bartending classes can vary widely depending on the factors listed above. According to the search results, the average cost of bartending classes ranges from less than $300 to upwards of $1,500. Here are some examples of the average cost of bartending classes:

  • In-person classes: In-person classes can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,500 or more. The cost of in-person classes can vary depending on the location, duration, and curriculum of the course.
  • Online classes: Online classes tend to be less expensive than in-person classes. The average cost of online bartending classes is between $80 and $150. However, online classes may not offer the same hands-on experience and networking opportunities as in-person classes.

Keep in mind that some bartending schools may offer flexible schedules, allowing you to take classes at your own pace or on weekends.

However, this may affect the overall cost of the course. Make sure to research the options available to you and choose a course that fits your budget and schedule.

Benefits of Taking Bartending Classes

If you’re considering a career in bartending, taking bartending classes can be a great way to gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. Here are some benefits of taking bartending classes:

Job Placement

Many bartending schools offer job placement assistance to their students. This can be a valuable resource for those who are just starting out in the industry and may not have any connections.

Some schools have partnerships with local bars and restaurants, which can give you a foot in the door when it comes to finding a job.

young smiling bartender in black apron preparing to make cocktail

Bartending Certification

Bartending classes can also provide you with the necessary certification to work as a bartender. While certification is not required in all states, it can be a valuable asset when looking for a job.

Certification shows that you have completed a certain level of training and have the knowledge and skills needed to mix drinks and serve alcohol responsibly.

Bartending License

In addition to certification, some states require bartenders to obtain a bartending license before they can work in the industry. Bartending classes can help you prepare for the licensing exam and ensure that you have the knowledge needed to pass.

Alcohol Awareness Training

Bartending classes often include alcohol awareness training, which is essential for anyone working in the industry.

This training teaches you how to recognize the signs of intoxication, how to handle difficult customers, and how to serve alcohol responsibly. This training can help you avoid legal issues and ensure the safety of your customers.

Overall, taking bartending classes can be a great investment in your future as a bartender. Not only can it provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed, but it can also give you a competitive edge when it comes to finding a job.

Additional Considerations

If you’re considering taking bartending classes, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind beyond just the cost of the course. Here are some things to consider:

Flair Bartending

If you’re interested in flair bartending, which involves performing tricks and acrobatics while making drinks, you may need to take additional classes beyond a standard bartending course.

Flair bartending classes can be more expensive than regular bartending classes, and they require a higher level of skill and practice. However, if you’re passionate about flair bartending and willing to put in the time and effort to learn, it can be a fun and rewarding skill to have.

Barbacking

Before you become a full-fledged bartender, you may need to work as a barback, which involves assisting the bartender with tasks like restocking supplies, cleaning glasses, and preparing garnishes.

Some bartending schools offer barbacking courses as well, which can be a good way to get your foot in the door and gain some experience in the industry.

However, keep in mind that barbacking jobs typically pay less than bartending jobs, so you may need to work your way up to a higher salary.

Tips

One thing to keep in mind when considering the cost of bartending classes is the potential for tips. Bartenders can earn a significant amount of money in tips, especially if they work in busy bars or high-end establishments.

bartender with whiskey glass and money in his hands.

While there’s no guarantee that you’ll make a lot of tips, it’s worth keeping in mind that your earning potential as a bartender can be much higher than just your hourly wage.

Additionally, some bartending schools offer courses on how to maximize your tips, so it may be worth considering taking one of these courses if you’re interested in boosting your earning potential.

Overall, there are a variety of factors to consider when deciding whether or not to take bartending classes.

While the cost of the course is certainly a consideration, it’s important to keep in mind the potential for earning tips, as well as any additional skills or certifications you may need to pursue your desired career path in the industry.

Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.

Written by Rocco

Rocco is a Florida State University alumnus with years of bartending and hospitality experience. From slinging hundreds of vodka sodas a night in jam-packed college bars to serving carefully crafted cocktails in upscale restaurants, there’s not much he hasn’t done behind a bar. Now, Rocco shares his knowledge and passion for all things alcohol-related here on My Bartender for bibulous readers everywhere to enjoy.

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