Originally Posted by
moman
I would say that it depends on what type of BBQ you would like.
South (Southeast US):
Pork cuts primarily
Sauces are primarily vinegar and mustard based
Midwest (Kansas City):
Pork and Beef
Sauces are primarily tomato based
Texas:
Beef cuts (brisket, beef ribs)
Sauces primarily sweet tomato based
Then base your classes from those places, in general. The best BBQ course I can think of is befriending a small southern restaurant and getting all the education for free.
I agree with this approach. About a month ago 'The Economist' had a good article about different regions and different BBQ's. Determine which kind you like and start checking that region for fairs, and possible restaurant or community college courses.