Cheese Certification
Master of Cheese
Achieve the highest level of cheese expertise and join the ranks of the world's cheese masters.
The gold standard of cheese education
Master of Cheese certification represents the pinnacle of cheese expertise and cheese education, awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional knowledge, skill, and commitment to the field. This prestigious qualification, offered by the Academy of Cheese, is highly regarded across the industry as a mark of true mastery. Achieving the Master of Cheese title not only signifies a profound understanding of cheesemaking, tasting, and affinage but also reflects a dedication to the ongoing development of cheese knowledge. Those who hold this certification are recognised as leaders and trusted authorities within the global cheese community.
Why become a master of cheese?
Cheese Industry Recognition
Achieving the Master of Cheese certification elevates professional credibility, marking candidates as trusted experts in the field. This prestigious qualification can open doors to advanced career opportunities, establishing certified individuals as leaders within the cheese industry.
In-Depth Cheese Knowledge
The programme imparts extensive knowledge, covering everything from the science of cheesemaking to advanced sensory skills. Graduates emerge with a comprehensive understanding of cheese production, maturation, and evaluation, equipping them to excel in any cheese-related role.
Cheese Professional Network
Masters of Cheese gain access to a global network of cheese professionals, exclusive industry events, and ongoing learning opportunities. This network fosters connections with peers, mentors, and leaders, supporting both professional growth and lifelong learning.
Contribution to the Cheese Industry
Certified Masters of Cheese play a vital role in shaping industry trends, contributing to cheese education, and promoting cheese appreciation. Their expertise helps elevate standards across the industry and encourages broader public engagement with the world of cheese.
Certification pathway
1/6
Master of Cheese Registration
Unlock this Master of Cheese learning road and get ready to join an elite community of cheese experts, contribute to cheese industry advancements, and transform your passion into mastery. Register now to start your journey to becoming a Master of Cheese!
What's included?
Register for instant access to the Master of Cheese Learning Road.
- Self-study, step-by-step guidance
- Online progress tracker
- Professional portfolio builder
- Mock exams and readiness quiz
Plus 10% discount on level 3 modules
2/6
Prerequisites
Candidates must pass Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 core and supplementary modules.
Delegates have the flexibility to earn these cheese certifications before, during, or after enrolling in the Master of Cheese certification pathway. However, all certifications must be completed before the Master of Cheese accreditation can be awarded.
Level 1: Associate
Level 2: Member
Level 3: Fellow
3/6
Cheese Portfolio Assessment
Candidates must compile a portfolio highlighting their work within the cheese industry.
This portfolio serves as evidence of practical application and cheese industry involvement, essential for achieving the Master of Cheese title.
Ready to take your portfolio to the assessment and accreditation level?
- Self-study step-by-step guidance
- Professional portfolio builder
- Knowledge and readiness mentor
- Professional portfolio assessment
What's included?
4/6
Cheese Academic Research Paper
Candidates must submit a 5,000-word research paper contributing original insights into the cheese industry.
This paper should reflect in-depth cheese research and understanding, showcasing the candidate’s cheese expertise and adding value to the broader cheese community.
Is your research proposal ready? Time to connect with your mentor.
- Self-study Step-by-step guidance
- Research and review mentor
- In person viva presentation
- Professional assessment
What's included?
5/6
Blind Cheese Tasting
Candidates are required to complete a blind-tasting cheese assessment designed to evaluate their sensory skills and ability to identify cheeses
This rigorous assessment challenges candidates to demonstrate both breadth and depth of cheese knowledge through precise identification, detailed sensory analysis, and comparative grading of cheese.
Ready to take your tasting to the ultimate assessment level?
- Self-study step-by-step guidance
- Blind tasting tips and tricks
- Knowledge and readiness mentor
- Live, in-person assessment
What's included?
6/6
General Cheese Exam Paper
Candidates must complete a 90-minute General Cheese Exam Paper that tests their knowledge across all levels of the Academy programme.
This assessment includes a mix of short-answer and essay-style questions covering various topics from cheesemaking to cheese sensory analysis. A minimum score of 70% is required to pass, ensuring a high standard of expertise.
Level 1, 2, and 3 standards in the bag? Time for the ultimate assessment.
- Exam preparation guidance
- Knowledge and readiness mentor
- Online exam
What's included?
What is a master of cheese?
For me, a Master of Cheese will demonstrate a true passion for the craft, as well as possess a deep understanding of provenance and the process of transforming milk into one of life’s great food experiences. They will also take great pride in passing on their knowledge to others.
The Master of Cheese is the aspirational peak of people in cheese: knowledgeable and experienced across the world of cheese and the world’s cheese; generous in developing those around them; providing a lasting, acknowledged and widespread contribution to cheese.
A woman or a man being recognised by other fellow experts for his/her knowledge and experience. Main values and competencies should be the respect for the planet, caring about others and listening carefully but also sharing one’s knowledge.
It’s an aspiration. It’s the ultimate demonstration that you have grappled with the very essence of cheese and it’s industry.
Master of Cheese
Audience
Is Master of Cheese certification right for you?
The Master of Cheese certification is for seasoned professionals and committed enthusiasts who seek to reach the highest level of cheese expertise. This advanced qualification is ideal for individuals passionate about deepening their knowledge, enhancing their professional skills, and contributing to the industry in a meaningful way.
Ideal candidates
Contact
Need help?
Have questions about Master of Cheese or need assistance with your certification journey? Our team is here to help! Fill out the form, and we will be in touch to provide support, answer questions, or guide you through the next steps.