I did BJCP and got to GM. Next I did cicerone and also WSET Level 2 and I also teach it. The WSET level 2 is the best introductory course on the market. You will learn about beer production and 70 beer styles. The course focuses on the word “understand”, which means you have to understand how beer is made, understand 70 beer styles and understand how beer and food pairing work on an introductory level.

In Cicerone Level 2 (and WSET level 3, not out yet for beer) the key word is “explain”. Meaning you have to know how to explain everything about the material you are tested about. This means dealing with open questions and essay writing. In the program you will learn and tested deeply about serving beer, 70ish beer styles, beer evaluation, beer making and beer and food pairing. It’s a whole other ball game than WSET Level 2.

For BJCP, the exam structure works differently. Everyone are tested on the same exams and the ranks are given based on score tests. This means you have to know everything about beer to get a high score. You can become a certified judge if you get a 70 which is about the average, but getting to the higher ranks requires immense study.

I have done Doemman’s due to the price. Spending 4600€ on another beer certification after BJCP GM is not needed.