Culinary Arts Degrees
If you’re interested in a career in the culinary field, a degree in culinary arts is a great way to get started. While cooking experience is an invaluable part of your development as a chef, culinary school will provide a much-needed foundation and introduction to the essential elements of cooking. From wine pairing to knife technique, a degree in culinary arts will impart the skills you need to pursue your dream job.
It’s up to you which culinary arts degree will best prepare you for your career goals. Culinary arts degrees include:
- Diploma / Certification: These programs tend to take 8-10 weeks to complete and provide a very basic culinary instruction. Students who wish to become familiar with cooking technique and begin an entry-level position, or those already working in the culinary field who wish to expand their skill-set should consider these programs.
- Associate’s: This two year degree program is a good way to get a thorough culinary arts training without undergoing a four-year program. Graduates will be able to work in various restaurant settings including private clubs and cruise ships. Although it may be necessary to begin working as an entry-level line or prep cook, the experience you gain while earning your degree will greatly increase your chances of moving up.
- Bachelor’s: While these degree program typically focus on management positions within the food and beverage industry, there are a few that offer four year degrees in culinary arts. The majority, however, will prepare you to run a variety of hospitality and fine-dining related establishments, while providing additional training in culinary arts.