The University of Melbourne has launched a new undergraduate subject dedicated to coffee, reportedly one of the first of its kind at an Australian university. The 12-week course, titled "Coffee: Science, Trade & Culture," began its inaugural session in late July 2026, offering students a multidisciplinary academic examination of the global commodity.
The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including economics, international trade, agriculture, health impacts, and sensory science. According to the university's course description, a core focus is placed on sustainable practices and the socioeconomic implications of the coffee trade for producing nations. The program also explores the history and cultural significance of coffee around the world.
Upon completion, students are expected to be able to critically assess coffee flavors in relation to origin, terroir, and roasting processes. The course aims to equip participants with the skills to analyze global supply chains, interpret scientific research on coffee, and evaluate the role of coffee agriculture in international relations and economic development. The university cited Melbourne's reputation as a coffee capital as an ideal setting for the subject.