Edinburgh Whisky Academy revamps single malt diploma
The Online Diploma in Single Malt Whisky offered by the Edinburgh Whisky Academy has been given a major refresh for 2026, further strengthening one of the world’s most comprehensive whisky qualifications.
Certified by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), candidates for The Online Diploma in Single Malt Whisky must complete seven in-depth modules covering whisky history, business, raw materials, batch distillation, maturation, sensory skills and world whiskies, followed by a rigorous final assessment testing both theoretical knowledge and practical tasting ability.
Now for 2026, the diploma has been updated to reflect the fastest moving and most dynamic developments in global whisky today, with new styles, producers and flavour profiles emerging at pace.
By refreshing both content and tastings, the Academy ensures graduates receive the most current, authoritative, and relevant whisky education available – whether for professional development or personal mastery.
As such, at the heart of the update is an expanded and newly authored World Whiskies module by whisky writer Dave Broom. The module places single malt Scotch within a global context, examining styles, traditions, and flavour profiles from across the whisky-producing world.
Kirsty McKerrow, managing director of Edinburgh Whisky Academy, said: “The Online Diploma in Single Malt Whisky has been trusted by whisky professionals and enthusiasts worldwide since 2021. This refresh ensures the course continues to reflect how whisky is evolving today, particularly on a global stage.
“With Dave Broom’s distinctive voice, new video content and an updated tasting experience, the diploma remains world-class, relevant, and formally recognised through SQA certification.”
The diploma’s History of Whisky and Distillation module has also been enhanced with new in-depth video discussions featuring Broom and industry history expert Iain Russell, which is said to add greater depth, clarity and engagement to one of the course’s core subjects.
The new video content has been designed to make the learning experience more dynamic, accessible and enjoyable, while maintaining the ‘academic rigour’ for which the diploma is known.
Reflecting these content updates, the diploma’s tasting experience has also been refreshed for 2026 with a newly curated sample pack designed by Broom.
Six whiskies representing key global styles now accompany the World Whiskies module in a bid to create a ‘distinctive sensory journey’ that is unique to Edinburgh Whisky Academy and unavailable elsewhere.
The refreshed Online Diploma in Single Malt Whisky is available to book now, currently discounted from £1,015 (US$1,367) to £913 (US$1,230).
It is recommended for whisky enthusiasts, industry professionals, brand ambassadors, educators, writers, and buyers, as well as hospitality professionals wanting deeper technical and sensory confidence.
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