Bartending

Overview

Bartending programs cover topics such as:

• Common mixed drinks
• Wine and beer
• Customer service
• Bar management techniques
• Legal and health regulations

Students also learn how to handle people who may have had too much to drink. This may include handling emergency situations and learning to administer first aid and CPR.

Schools

Several career schools offer programs in bartending. A certificate in bartending may take several months to complete. Some programs may be available online.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

• Culinary Arts
• Food Services
• Restaurant and Food Services Management
• Wine Steward/Sommelier

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

• Bartenders

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

• Cashiers
• Counter Attendants
• Craft Brewers
• Waiters and Waitresses

Program Admission

Most schools require you to be at least 21 to enroll. This depends on each state's regulations regarding the age of bartenders.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

• Food and Nutrition
• Psychology

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

• Accounting and Cash Management
• Bar Mixology and Management
• Customer Service Skills
• First Aid and CPR
• Legal Rules and Regulations
• Principles of Beer and Wine
• Safety and Health
• Sanitation and Hygiene Techniques
• Service of Food and Beverage
• Table Service

Things to Know

Every state has different regulations on serving alcohol in public institutions such as restaurants. Check with your local health department or state restaurant association for more information on specific requirements. You may need to get an alcohol seller/server certificate before you can start working.

In addition, not all states require that you be 21 to serve alcohol. Some states only require you to be 18, although they may require a supervisor to be present when you are working.

Schools

King-Snohomish Area

ABC Bartending School

• Mixologist--Bartending

Tacoma Area

Bartending Academy of Tacoma

• Bartending