Certified Cheesemaking Professional (CCP)

Fresh, washed, hard, blue, vegan, and cheeses with bloomy rinds. The Certified Cheesemaking Professional (CCP) certification teaches you how to make all your favorites. This course will walk you through the intricate steps of producing cheese, the tools you’ll need, and the particular recipes you’ll need to make your own cheeses, from novice to affineur.

How did cheese become to be so well-liked? We’ll talk about the history of cheese, how it was made in ancient civilizations, and the current cheese boom.

After this brief introduction, we’ll go right into the five stages that almost all cheeses sold today are made using to create cheese. You’ll also learn about the tools used in the cheesemaking process, which are divided into two categories: “basics” and “other.” This will help you understand what tools are necessary and what are optional.

Certification Program Objectives:

  • Learn about the origins of cheese.
  • Study the procedures for manufacturing cheese.
  • Learn about the tools used in the production of cheese.
  • Make fresh, bloomy rind, washed rind, hard, blue, and vegan cheeses by following recipes and instructions.

Certification Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for certification from The American Institute of Business and Management (AIBM) and its allied institutions, candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution

And/or

  • 2 to 5 years of relevant work experience in the related professional field.

Note: Applicants who do not hold a Bachelor’s degree but possess exceptional professional experience and hold significant positions within their organizations in a relevant field may also be considered for certification on a case-by-case basis, subject to the approval of the AIBM evaluation committee.

Certifying Examination:

  • To be certified as CCP, student should take up a 1.5 hours online exam conducted by AIPC.
  • The qualifying exam would consist of 50 multiple choice questions, testing core certification modules.
  • Professionals with relevant experience and other qualifying criteria may be exempted from the examination.

Certification Modules:

Module 1: The History of Cheesemaking
Module 2: Equipment and Apparatus
Module 3: Fresh Cheese, Bloomy Rind Cheese and Washed Rind Cheese
Module 4: Hard Cheese and Vegan Cheese
Module 5: Aging, Ripening, and Affinage Techniques
Module 6: Specialty and Artisanal Cheesemaking

* The modules of the certification are constantly updated and are subject to change.

Who Should Do This Certification:

This certification is tailored for individuals passionate about the art and science of cheesemaking, whether you’re an aspiring cheesemaker, a culinary enthusiast, or a professional seeking to enhance your skills in cheese production. The Certified Cheesemaking Professional (CCP) program offers comprehensive training and knowledge essential for mastering the craft of cheesemaking.

  • Aspiring Cheesemakers: If you dream of crafting delicious cheeses from scratch or have a curiosity about the cheesemaking process, the CCP certification provides an ideal starting point. Whether you aim to pursue cheesemaking as a hobby or a career, this program equips you with the foundational knowledge and hands-on skills needed to create a variety of cheeses with confidence.
  • Culinary Professionals: Chefs, cooks, and culinary professionals looking to expand their repertoire and deepen their understanding of cheese will find the CCP certification valuable. Whether you work in restaurants, hotels, or catering services, mastering the art of cheesemaking can elevate your culinary creations and enhance your expertise in dairy-based dishes.
  • Dairy Industry Workers: Individuals working in the dairy industry, including dairy farmers, milk processors, and cheese factory employees, can benefit from obtaining the CCP certification to gain insights into the cheesemaking process. Understanding the principles of cheesemaking can enhance your proficiency in dairy production and quality control, leading to improved products and processes.
  • Food Entrepreneurs: Aspiring food entrepreneurs interested in launching artisanal cheese businesses or incorporating cheese production into existing ventures can greatly benefit from the CCP certification. It provides essential knowledge on cheese production, safety regulations, and business strategies, empowering you to navigate the complexities of starting and running a successful cheesemaking operation.
  • Cheese Enthusiasts and Home Chefs: If you have a passion for cheese and enjoy experimenting with homemade culinary creations, the CCP certification offers an exciting opportunity to deepen your knowledge and skills in cheesemaking. Whether you’re interested in crafting traditional favorites or exploring innovative cheese varieties, this program provides valuable guidance and resources for cheese enthusiasts of all levels.
  • Educators and Trainers: Teachers, workshop facilitators, and culinary educators interested in offering cheesemaking classes or workshops can benefit from obtaining the CCP certification. It equips you with the expertise and credentials to deliver high-quality educational experiences, inspiring others to explore the world of cheese and dairy craftsmanship.
  • Anyone with a Love for Cheese: Ultimately, the CCP certification welcomes anyone with a genuine love for cheese and a desire to delve deeper into the art and science of cheesemaking. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur, a dairy aficionado, or simply someone who enjoys the rich flavors and textures of cheese, this program invites you to embark on a flavorful journey of discovery and mastery.

No matter your background or experience level, if you’re passionate about cheese and eager to expand your knowledge and skills in cheesemaking, the Certified Cheesemaking Professional (CCP) certification is designed to empower you on your deliciously cheesy quest.