Introduction:A coffee elective course at Heilongjiang University of Science and Technology has become an extremely popular class that students scramble to enroll in, thanks to its on-site preparation of Irish coffee and free tastings. This course, which combines coffee culture, tasting, and pour over techniques, not only teaches theory but also allows students to get hands-on with practical sessions. This article takes an in-depth look at the course content, the frenzy to enroll, and why this class has become a campus legend.
As final exams approach and most students eagerly await the holidays, students enrolled in the coffee elective at Heilongjiang University of Science and Technology wish the course would never end — because once it’s over, they won’t be able to enjoy the free, freshly made coffee offered in class anymore. In one class video, the instructor demonstrates how to make Irish coffee while explaining the process on stage, with flames dancing inside glass cups, drawing gasps of amazement from the students.
This elective, which covers coffee culture, tasting, and production, has become one of the most sought-after courses on campus. Some students admit that even using up all their available elective credits might not guarantee them a spot. The class not only introduces the history and cultural background of coffee, but also delves into the different brewing methods’extraction parametersandflavor profiles, giving students a comprehensive understanding of coffee’s appeal.
The pour over coffee and creative coffee beverages demonstrated in class allow students to not only learn theory but also get hands-on experience. The instructor’s live demonstration of making Irish coffee — from lighting the alcohol to latte art — wows students at every step. This teaching method that combines visual and taste experiences has become the highlight of the course.
Due to the rich and practical content of the course, competition to enroll is incredibly fierce. Many students say that even if they use up all their elective credits, they still can’t get into the class. Those who can’t get a spot can only attend as auditors, and the classroom is often packed to capacity. This enthusiasm isn’t limited to the university itself — students from other colleges have also expressed envy after seeing it.
Alumni who graduated years ago, when reflecting on their university days, express deep regret about missing out on this course, openly saying, “Why didn’t I take this class back then?” They believe that such a course not only teaches practical skills but also lets you enjoy high-quality free coffee — a major regret of their college years.
In recent years, universities across the country have introduced electives that cater to young people’s interests, such as baking classes and wine tasting, and coffee tasting courses have gradually become a trend. In addition to Heilongjiang University of Science and Technology, institutions like Harbin Institute of Technology, Beijing Normal University, and Jimei University have also launched similar courses, which have been warmly welcomed by students.
As coffee culture becomes more widespread among younger generations, more and more students are developing an interest in coffee, making it inevitable for coffee-related courses to enter campuses. Some schools have incorporated them into their elective systems, while others list them as required courses for specific majors. For coffee enthusiasts, being able to learn while enjoying free coffee and watching the instructor brew on the spot is undoubtedly a dream learning experience.
The above content is compiled by CoffeeHunters, a coffee news website.
