Choosing Your Path: Long Island’s Best Bartending Schools Offer Both In-Person and Online Training Options to Launch Your Career in 2024

The bartending industry in Long Island is thriving, with establishments from trendy lounges to neighborhood favorites constantly seeking skilled professionals. As aspiring bartenders consider their training options, the choice between in-person and online bartending education has become increasingly important. Understanding the benefits and limitations of each approach can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals and lifestyle needs.

The Long Island Bartending Scene

With the density of bars and people, Long Island is one of the best places in the world to begin and train for a career in the hospitality industry. The region offers diverse opportunities, from high-end restaurants to casual sports bars, creating a robust job market for trained bartenders. Average bartender income ranges from $800–$1,200+ per week with tips, making it an attractive career choice for many.

In-Person Bartending Training: The Traditional Advantage

In-person bartending schools on Long Island provide hands-on experience that closely mimics real-world bar environments. Real soda guns, glassware, and gear get students used to the real deal, with flexible class times for both early birds and night owls. In-person bartending school often consists of one 40-hour week spent in a “classroom” with your instructor and other students.

The primary benefits of in-person training include immediate feedback from instructors, networking opportunities with classmates, and the ability to practice with professional equipment. 70% of employers prefer word-of-mouth over job websites when looking to hire someone, making networking and building relationships in the industry probably the easiest and quickest way to get a bartending gig.

However, in-person training does come with limitations. Students must adhere to fixed schedules, commute to the location, and typically pay higher tuition fees. Most bartending schools charge $300–$600 for basic classes without career support.

Online Bartending Training: Flexibility Meets Modern Learning

Online bartending education has evolved significantly, offering comprehensive curricula that cover everything from basic drink recipes to advanced mixology techniques. An online certification course at a bartending school costs between $50 and $200. Often, online schools give you much more time to complete the curriculum, maybe 30 or 60 days, allowing for greater flexibility in your schedule.

The advantages of online training are clear: Save time, energy, and gas by getting certified at your own pace online versus in person at designated times. Take control of your time and education, complete your class as fast as you need, or take your time. This flexibility is particularly valuable for working professionals or those with family commitments.

However, online training has its drawbacks. This benefit is less pronounced if you opt for an online bartending course. They’ll still cover the physical techniques like standard pours and how to pour beer, but it’ll be up to you to practice on your own with no real-time feedback. Although online bartending schools are generally much cheaper than their in-person counterparts, they put more focus on building a knowledge base than a practical skill base.

1-800 Bartending School: A Long Island Leader

When considering bartending education on Long Island, Bartending School in Long Island stands out as a comprehensive option. With three decades of know-how, training people just like you to find success in the industry, the school has established itself as a trusted provider in the region.

Located in Farmingdale, New York, 1-800 Bartending School offers both practical training and career support. Most bartending schools charge $300–$600 for basic classes without career support. Our program goes beyond training — we open doors to actual jobs with guaranteed job placement support. One week of training, and you’re ready to start something amazing. The skills, the confidence, the career—it’s all yours.

The school’s commitment to practical education is evident in their approach: From basic pours to cash registers, we cover everything you’ll actually need. Real soda guns, glassware, and gear to get you used to the real deal. This hands-on methodology ensures graduates are prepared for real-world bartending environments.

Making Your Decision: Key Factors to Consider

When choosing between in-person and online bartending training, consider your learning style, schedule flexibility, and career goals. Online bartending school is worth it if you have zero to little experience bartending, or if you need to get your foot in the door and don’t have the time or resources to attend an in-person school.

For those seeking immediate hands-on experience and networking opportunities, in-person training may be ideal. However, if flexibility and cost-effectiveness are priorities, online training can provide a solid foundation. While work experience is one route into bartending, bartending school offers another, expedited route for those who may not be able to work as a barback or a similar position for an extended period of learning. This is especially helpful if you have little to no knowledge of spirits and the skills needed to bartend.

Certification and Legal Requirements

Regardless of your chosen training method, understanding certification requirements is crucial. Ensure the school offers an Alcohol Training Awareness Program certification, as it is often required by top bars and restaurants in NYC. About half the states require an alcohol awareness course, which is sometimes called a bartender license or certificate. You can take this course online for about $8.

The Bottom Line

Both in-person and online bartending training have their place in today’s educational landscape. Bartending schools in NYC offer flexible schedules, from one-week courses to longer programs. Most schools help graduates find jobs and even offer lifetime refresher classes. Completing a program gives you a certification that many bars and restaurants require.

Success in bartending ultimately depends on your dedication to learning, practicing your craft, and building industry relationships. Whether you choose the traditional classroom experience or the flexibility of online learning, the key is selecting a program that provides comprehensive training, practical skills, and ongoing career support to help you thrive in Long Island’s competitive bartending market.