The best culinary schools in America teach students a variety of skills. They can find employment in a restaurant, as a personal chef, or even as a teacher. As a result, chefs can earn good money in this industry. However, the average pay in the first few years after graduation is low. Getting into a top culinary school can help you secure better pay.
Most culinary schools require students to have a high school diploma or a GED. Students may also need to complete an externship before they can begin working in the field. These externships can be a great way to prepare for your first job in the industry.
Many students attend culinary schools as part of a college degree program. This postsecondary education helps them get hired faster and can even make switching schools easier. A bachelor’s degree program takes about four years, while an associate’s can take two. Although not all employers require a bachelor’s degree for entry-level culinary jobs, most prefer to hire a chef with at least an associate’s degree.
One of the best schools to work at is the Culinary Institute of America. CIA offers a wide range of programs, including professional development and diplomas in pastry arts and hospitality management. It has several campuses throughout the country and even has one in New York. CIA alumni are well-respected industry leaders.
Le Cordon Bleu, known for its cuisine, has locations in France, the United Kingdom, and Thailand. Le Cordon Bleu graduates include Chef Michael Chiarello, Chef Todd English, and Chef Cat Cora. Other alumni include Steve Ells, Dean Fearing, and Michael Mina.
Another popular school is the Culinary Institute of New York at Monroe College. It attracts students from all over the world. There are on-campus restaurants, a bakery, and a service organization. ICE has a reputation for job placement and a strong entrepreneurial focus. In fact, the school was once ranked as the best culinary school in the United States.
For many people, a culinary school is the gateway to a career in the foodservice industry. Despite the competitive nature of the industry, students at a top culinary school can enjoy plenty of kitchen time, and learn from experienced professionals. Top culinary schools teach management techniques and important skills, which can open doors for chefs in many different careers.
Those who want to become a chef should be aware that the field can be a stressful one. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that jobs in the field will increase by 25% by 2030. Whether you’re a line cook or a chef, you’ll need to hone your skills through experience and education. Some chefs start out as kitchen helpers. Choosing a culinary school that will offer you the training you need to stand out from the crowd is the best way to ensure you land a career.
You might also be interested in other culinary programs, such as nutritionists, baking and pastry arts, or restaurant management. You will need to decide what type of work you want to do before deciding on a program.