Taking a culinary class at a college or trade school is an excellent way to prepare for a career in the food industry. Culinary schools offer a wide range of programs and specializations, including baking and pastry, cuisine, and restaurant management. Most of these institutes require a high school diploma. Some programs are short-term, while others take up to two years. Students who pursue a culinary degree can expect to learn about the industry, develop leadership skills, and gain valuable cooking and business experience.
Students who study culinary arts can also expect to work as personal chefs or caterers. The food service industry remains strong in tough times, and job growth in this field is expected to be above average. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 25 percent increase in jobs for chefs over the next decade.
One of the best culinary schools in the United States is the Culinary Institute of America. This school is home to a variety of programs that range from culinary associate degrees to bachelor’s degrees. As well as offering degrees in the food and beverage field, CIA has an impressive record of job placement. It has campuses from coast to coast. Many of its graduates find positions as head cooks, food stylists, and other high-end positions.
Other high-ranking schools include the Culinary Institute of America, the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, and Johnson and Wales. These schools have earned a reputation for producing a steady stream of acclaimed chefs.
The Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Art has campuses in Austin, Texas, Boulder, Colorado, and New York. They are recognized for their academic program, internships, and career development. A culinary program at this school can lead to a chef’s apprenticeship, a restaurant manager’s apprenticeship, or a culinary associate degree.
The Culinary Institute of America, which is located in Hyde Park, NY, offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the food and beverage field. Students can also pursue an accelerated degree, which can be completed in just four months.
Another top-notch culinary school is the Greystone School of Culinary Arts. Students can choose from a variety of courses, such as bread baking, French, and Italian cuisine, as well as desserts. Applicants can receive scholarships from the school. Many famous celebrities have studied at Greystone, including Anthony Bourdain, Geoffrey Zakarian, and Cat Cora.
The Drexel University has a culinary degree program that covers food science and hospitality management in equal parts. The school also has a study abroad program in Rome, Italy. While the majority of students choose to complete their studies in the U.S., Drexel students are given the opportunity to travel to Italy and to study with a professional chef.
For more information on how to get a culinary degree, read this article. The process is similar to the one used by other majors. Applicants need to fill out an application and submit proof of a high school diploma or GED. They may be asked to write an essay or submit an interview. If you decide to pursue a culinary degree, contact the admissions department of the school and ask about financial aid.