If you’re a food lover, there’s no shortage of delicious culinary television shows to keep your appetite whetted. From documentaries that showcase beautiful meals and enticing dishes to cutthroat competitions where the winner takes all, these TV shows are sure to leave you hungry for more. But whether you swoon over the intricate layering of a dessert or prefer to keep your kitchen skills to the basics, the best culinary schools can teach you everything from how to prepare a steak to managing the entire restaurant operation.
The top culinary programs can offer a full college experience and have a robust faculty with impressive credentials, including master chefs and bakers, published authors, and seasoned professors in hospitality management and business. They’re also located in the heart of major cities, allowing students to enjoy world-class restaurants after class. But it’s also important to consider how far you are from home and if the location will work with your career goals.
For example, New York has a great selection of culinary schools that can give you an incredible education — no matter your focus. But you may be better suited to a school that’s just a couple hours away from your home town so you can continue your passion after graduation.
Choosing the right culinary school for your specific career goals requires an in-depth look at the type of degree you want and what area you want to specialize in. The best schools have flexible degree programs that can adapt to your needs, an inspiring faculty with diverse backgrounds and experiences, and a student-to-faculty ratio that encourages mentoring and support. They also have a variety of clubs and activities, attractive housing options, fun student life, and access to a city that will enrich your experience and make you a more well-rounded chef.
In the end, you’ll have a better understanding of how to create and execute dishes that reflect your creativity and style. And that can be the most rewarding part of all.
While it might seem like a lot of work, earning a Master’s degree in the culinary arts is a worthwhile investment in your career. It’s the highest credential that you can earn in the industry and it will open up more opportunities than a bachelor’s degree.
With its various rankings (Best Chefs, Area Talks, Food Meets Science), awards ceremonies, and websites, the James Beard Foundation is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the food industry and culinary arts. But the organization isn’t without its controversy. In 2022, the foundation was criticized for its handling of the World’s 50 Best Restaurant list and for not considering diversity when it came to award winners. The foundation has since reacted in whiplash fashion to improve transparency, accountability, and accessibility.