Master in Coffee Economics and Science – Ernesto Illy: The Fourteenth Edition Begins

The highly anticipated fourteenth edition of the inter-university Master in Coffee Economics and Science – Ernesto Illy, an initiative by illycaffè and the Ernesto Illy Foundation, officially commences today. This pioneering program provides an all-encompassing educational journey, encompassing the biological, agronomic, technological, and economic facets of coffee, charting the path from coffee cultivation to the final cup.

This year, 25 students representing 18 countries—spanning continents from Argentina and Tanzania to India and Mexico—will participate. The program targets young graduates in fields like economics, engineering, and agricultural sciences, offering a robust academic foundation.

The curriculum features over 430 hours of instruction delivered by 60 distinguished instructors in a hybrid format. Remote classes initiate the program, transitioning to in-person sessions in Trieste by May 2025. A practical project work assignment culminates the course, enabling students to apply their learnings effectively.

Collaborative Support
The program thrives on the collaboration of illycaffè, the Ernesto Illy Foundation, the University of Trieste, the University of Udine, SISSA, and the Area Science Park. This year, additional support comes from the Fondazione Friuli and Fondazione CRTrieste. Sixteen participants benefit from financial aid, including 10 full scholarships and 6 partial ones, provided by the Ernesto Illy Foundation.

Anna Illy, President of the Fondazione Ernesto Illy, highlighted the Foundation’s dedication:
“We are proud to support 16 aspiring professionals in their educational journey. This master’s program epitomizes our commitment to scientific research, education, and sustainability, nurturing talent that will uphold illycaffè’s legacy of quality and innovation. We wish our students great success and envision them as future ambassadors of sustainable coffee.”

Legacy of Excellence
Since its inception, the Master in Coffee Economics and Science has equipped over 272 graduates from more than 30 countries with specialized knowledge, enabling them to contribute to ethical and sustainable coffee practices. These professionals continue to uphold the values of illycaffè, safeguarding the brand’s commitment to sustainable quality coffee.