Although some workplaces do not require chefs to have a degree, most restaurants these days like to see chefs with basic certifications. Through culinary programs, students will learn basic kitchen operations, history of major cuisines, cooking techniques, and health and safety procedures.
CC Staff Writer
Updated September 1, 2022 · 6 Min Read
Reviewed by CC Rankings Team
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Although some workplaces do not require chefs to have a degree, most restaurants these days like to see chefs with basic certifications. A Culinary degree is a basic degree for chefs. Through culinary programs, students will learn basic kitchen operations, history of major cuisines, cooking techniques, and health and safety procedures.
A Culinary degree is not only a great way for people to move up in their career but is also a way to gain hands-on work experience. Because most programs require students to work in a kitchen before graduation, students can grow their connections within the field and gain confidence in their cooking abilities. Culinary degrees are offered via vocational schools, community colleges, and four-year colleges.
What can you do with a Culinary degree?
A degree in Culinary opens one up to a variety of careers. Other than becoming a chef, those with this degree can become restaurant managers in independent chains or at hotels, food and beverage directors, or food stylists for food magazines or other promotions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for chefs and head cooks with grow nine percent between the years of 2014 and 2024.
Other related culinary careers include, but are not limited to:
- Caterer
- Nutritionist
- Food Scientist
- Cooking Instructor
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What kind of Culinary degree should you get?
Culinary programs are taught at the Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's levels. An Associate's degree is a two-year program that is partially composed of general education classes in addition to basic chef courses.
Although some entry-level jobs only require an Associate's, a Bachelor's is preferred for most full-time jobs. A Master's degree is for upper tier chefs and/or upper management positions such as food and beverage directors. An online Culinary degree is ideal for those who are already working and find traditional class schedules difficult.
Cross-reference this list with College Choice's ranking of the Most Affordable Online Colleges to make sure you enroll in the perfect program for you.
How much money do people make with a Culinary degree?
While chefs working for restaurants average about $43,750 annually, chefs working for performing arts companies earn an average of $69,150. Furthermore, an average salary for a sous chef is $44,627, a pastry chef is $33,000, and an executive chef earns an average of $69,494.
Experience is a major influencer of salary within the culinary field. As of March 2018, those in entry-level jobs can earn anywhere from $19,763 to $56,728 depending on job and location. A chef in their late career can earn anywhere from $24,522 to $61,042. Because the pay range is so large it is important to research specific career paths and workplace locations within the field.
What are the requirements for a Culinary degree?
Admission to culinary schools require a high school diploma or a GED. For some programs, a GPA of 2.5 or higher is recommended. For those whose first language isn't English, an English proficiency test score is also required. No other specific education or experience is necessary for an Associate's or Bachelor's degree.
During the actual program, in addition to taking a variety of classes, most Culinary degrees require students to participate in internships for a certain number of hours. Even those who take only online programs must take an internship in a cooking institution. These internships are a great way to grow one's resume and gain experience in an actual kitchen.
What are the most affordable online Culinary degrees?
Below is College Choice's list of the five most affordable online culinary degrees. While net tuition price was the deciding factor in this ranking, rest assured these are quality programs. All of these universities are regionally accredited.
We compiled data for this ranking from individual college websites, the National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS database, Payscale, and the U.S. News & World Report.
Rankings
See our rankings methodology page.
#1
Johnson & Wales University-Providence
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Providence, Rhode Island |
| Admission Rate | 93% |
| Graduation Rate | 65% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 15% |
The bachelor's in culinary arts program at Johnson & Wales University-Providence prioritizes accessibility in its course options. The degree builds the knowledge and skills required for a variety of entry-level and mid-level careers. The degree also prepares graduates for master's-level programs, which open up additional career opportunities.
The curriculum covers introductory courses and advanced topics. Undergraduates also complete general education courses, gaining widely applicable skills such as writing, communication, and critical thinking. Degree candidates complement their major by selecting a minor or double majoring.
Student services support incoming degree candidates as they begin taking classes. For example, career counselors review job opportunities and connect students with employment opportunities.
Johnson & Wales University-Providence at a Glance:
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Type of School: Private
Admissions Rate: 93%
Undergrad Tuition In State: $33,054
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $33,054
#2
Nicholls State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Thibodaux, Louisiana |
| Admission Rate | 88% |
| Graduation Rate | 49% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 52% |
Nicholls State University enrolls learners in 32 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of science in culinary arts. Graduates enter the workforce prepared for diverse careers with their degree. Degree-holders can also continue their education by applying to master's or doctoral programs.
The curriculum trains learners in the core principles and practices of culinary arts. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Students can gain interdisciplinary training by choosing a minor or second major.
The school's student services help incoming degree candidates make connections on campus and thrive in their program. For example, academic advisors work with enrollees to transfer credits into the school and select courses.
Nicholls State University at a Glance:
Location: Thibodaux, Louisiana
Type of School: Public
Admissions Rate: 88%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,922
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,015
#3
Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Admission Rate | 82% |
| Graduation Rate | 58% |
| Accreditation | Yes |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 57% |
Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix offers 25 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of applied science in food and nutrition entrepreneurship that stands out for its quality. Graduates can pursue entry-level careers in diverse industries. A bachelor's degree can also lead to higher education opportunities, including master's and doctoral programs.
The curriculum introduces major principles and practices in the culinary field. Undergraduates also strengthen writing, communication, and critical thinking skills through general education classes. Declaring a minor or double majoring helps students explore other interests.
The school's student services provide support for incoming degree candidates. For example, career counselors meet with learners to conduct career assessments and mock interviews.
Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix at a Glance:
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Type of School: Public
Admissions Rate: 82%
Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,710
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,800
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FAQs
What is the best degree to get for Culinary Arts? ›
Associates Degrees in Culinary Arts are the most often sought programs among committed chef candidates. The Associate's in Applied Science-Culinary Arts is based on a two year curriculum that provides a general educational foundation in math, writing, English and communication alongside a students culinary training.
Is Escoffier Online accredited? ›Online Programs
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, Colorado is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). It is also approved and regulated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE), Division of Private Occupational Schools.
Culinary Institute of America has an acceptance rate of 97%. Half the applicants admitted to Culinary Institute of America have an SAT score between 945 and 1190 or an ACT score of 17 and 26. However, one quarter of admitted applicants achieved scores above these ranges and one quarter scored below these ranges.
How long is Escoffier school online? ›The current Diploma Program in Culinary arts is 30 weeks, with 24 weeks of on-campus culinary practical coursework and 6 weeks dedicated to an industry externship. The online diploma program in Culinary Arts and Operations offered by the Boulder campus is 60 weeks.
What is the number 1 culinary school in America? ›- #1: Culinary Institute of America at Hyde Park. ...
- #2: Institute of Culinary Education. ...
- #3: Johnson and Wales University. ...
- #4: Metropolitan Community College: Omaha, Nebraska. ...
- #5: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts. ...
- #7: Culinary Institute LeNotre. ...
- #8: Kendall College of Culinary Arts.
Culinary School Can Open Up More Career Opportunities
By bringing an established skillset from culinary school – and indicating that you have the wherewithal to work hard and earn a degree – you can be a big draw for hiring chefs. Culinary school can also help prove your dedication to food as a career, not just a job.
Culinary schools take one to four years, depending on the program. The most common result is the diploma, associate, or bachelor's degree — master's culinary degrees are scarce in the United States.
How many years is culinary course? ›Although the entire Culinary Arts Programcan take up to four years, the skills and techniques that you will develop is worth the while. Completing a Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts has a lot of benefits.
What is the acceptance rate for Le Cordon Bleu? ›What are the chances to get into this university? The admission rate of LCB is quite high (75-100%) as it usually accepts all student applications that meet the eligibility requirements.
Is CIA the best culinary school? ›
The CIA is number one in ROI among all degree-granting culinary colleges, and a powerful network of 50,000+ alumni leads in every segment of the food industry.
How do you become a CIA culinary? ›- Request official transcripts.
- Submit an essay.
- Ask for a recommendation. That's it! You're on your way to enrolling at the CIA. If you've already submitted your application, learn more about the essay and supporting materials.
According to HR-reported aggregate market data, via Salary.com, the average pastry chef salary in the U.S. is $56,602, with the majority of pastry chefs earning between $49,017 and $80,644.
How do I become a pastry chef online? ›- Step 1: Obtain the Skills Needed. ...
- Step 2: Complete Online Courses Related to Food Preparation. ...
- Step 3: Complete Online Career-Related Courses. ...
- Step 4: Complete an Externship and Acquire Certification.
The Culinary Institute of America is a 4-year institution located in Hyde Park, NY, in a suburban setting.
Can I become a chef at 40? ›It is never too late to become a chef! This career has no age limits, and there are many successful chefs who found culinary arts later in life.
What is the number 1 cooking school in the world? ›- Culinary Institute of America, USA. Ranked as one of the finest in the world, the Culinary Institute of America opened in 1946. ...
- Le Cordon Bleu, France. ...
- Apicius, Italy. ...
- Westminster Kingsway College, UK. ...
- Business and Hotel Management School, Switzerland.
What are the requirements to be a Chef? Technically, you do not need a qualification specifically in Culinary Arts to be a Chef.
Is an online culinary degree worth it? ›Absolutely! Online culinary school consists of reading assignments, chef demonstration, practice, and feedback, just like an on-campus education. But studying online can give students greater flexibility, allowing them to complete their coursework from the convenience of their own home.
What is the difference between a culinary degree and certificate? ›The Culinary Arts Certificate will teach you the basics of what you need, while you gain experience in a kitchen. However, if you are hoping to work in any type of management position, generally a Culinary Degree will be required.
Can you be a self taught chef? ›
The thing about learning how to cook is that there's no one way of going about it - just as long as you're determined and willing, anyone can become a self-taught cook. That being said, here are some tips to help you get started on your self-cooking journey.
What is Escoffier Sauce? ›The sauce tomate described by Escoffier is a tomato sauce made with fatty salted pork breast, a mirepoix of carrots, onions and thyme, and white stock.
Does Escoffier have dorms? ›Although we do not offer any on-campus student living, Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts pairs with a number of highly rated housing partners in the Boulder, CO and Austin, TX area. From apartment complexes to dorm-like accommodations, we'd love to help you in your home search!
How much is culinary school in NYC? ›| Estimated Budgets | |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $30,200 |
| Estimated Annual Cost (incl. books, rent & other expenses) | $48,180 |
| Average Total Aid Awarded | $14,760/ year |
Becoming a chef after 30 is absolutely possible. There are no specific age limits for starting a culinary career and many people choose to enter the profession late in life. However, the learning curve can be very steep as being a chef is not comparable to any other job role.
Is it hard to get into culinary school? ›Is it tough to get accepted? The acceptance rate for culinary arts is different for different universities. While top colleges like Le Cordon Bleu and the Institute of Culinary education are more of a challenge, others might be easier to get into.
Is being a chef hard? ›Being a Chef is hard both physically and mentally. It's hard physically because you have to stand in a hot kitchen for hours on end. It's hard mentally because you of the long hours, and concentration required to get the meals out on time.
Does culinary arts have math? ›A chef's routine includes simple to complex math calculations. Examples include counting portions, increasing a recipe yield, determining a ratio for preparing a stock, calculating a plate cost, or establishing a food and labor budget.
What can I do with an associate's degree in culinary arts? ›- Line Cook. You may have heard the phrase, “too many cooks in the kitchen” — but the truth is, you usually can't get enough of them. ...
- Chef de Partie. ...
- Assistant Garde-Manger Chef. ...
- Junior Sous Chef. ...
- Assistant Kitchen Manager. ...
- Steward. ...
- Food Journalist. ...
- Food Stylist.
As you can see from the data above, Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts-Scottsdale is exceptionally difficult to get into. Not only should you be aiming for a 3.15 but also SAT scores around -.
What is the most prestigious pastry school? ›
- French Culinary Institute. ...
- The International Culinary Schools at the Art Institutes. ...
- Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts. ...
- The Culinary Institute of America. ...
- Star Career Academy.
The 3-year Bachelor programmes are composed of 4 academic semesters and 2 paid internships. These programmes combine operational management and professional techniques. During the first year, the basics of hotel management and culinary arts are taught.
What is the acceptance rate for the Culinary Institute of America? › Is CIA accredited? ›The CIA's accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and approval to operate in New York State include the online MPS program. Accreditation means the CIA meets national standards of excellence in higher education.
Where did Gordon Ramsay go to culinary school? ›Gordon Ramsay
What are the chances of getting into the CIA? ›If you read the qualifications, you probably realize it's pretty tough to get into the CIA, especially if you want to be one of the 10% of CIA officers who are field operatives. Your chances will be much better if you've first been honest with yourself about who you are and what you're capable of.
Does CIA require SAT scores? ›In other words, a 980 places you below average, while a 1200 will move you up to above average. There's no absolute SAT requirement at Culinary Institute of America, but they really want to see at least a 980 to have a chance at being considered.
Do you need SAT for CIA? ›A note from the college
School achievement record important, SAT/ACT tests not required for admissions, but if taken it is recommended that students submit their scores.
...
1. Nevada.
While it may be tempting to use the terms interchangeably, there are actually significant differences between the jobs of baker and pastry chef. A baker can bake a wide variety of items, including bread, rolls, pies, cakes, cookies, pastries, donuts, and more. But pastry chefs usually specialize in desserts.
How much do Disney chefs make? ›
How much does a Disney Chef make in California? As of Sep 25, 2022, the average annual pay for a Disney Chef in California is $50,551 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $24.30 an hour. This is the equivalent of $972/week or $4,212/month.
What's the difference between culinary arts and baking & pastry? ›Culinary arts centers include the cooking of meats, vegetables, and seafood for appetizers and main dishes to be served in a restaurant. Baking and pastry school deals with baking bread, cakes, pies, cookies and candies for a dessert menu. So, it might be just a personal preference.
What degree do you need to be a pastry chef? ›Pastry Chef Requirements:
High school diploma. Post-secondary training at a culinary institution. Certificate in culinary arts, pastry-making, baking, or relevant field.
Qualifications. Many pastry chefs have completed an undergraduate degree in culinary arts or attended a bakery school. This experience teaches you everything you need to know about being a pastry chef. Some bakeries/restaurants are proud to have qualified pastry chefs.
Does CIA offer online degrees? ›New Online Bachelor's Degree Just for CIA Associate Grads! !
The program's convenient, part-time study will allow you to set your own pace while advancing your knowledge and growing your career. While getting your BBA you'll: Learn the food business-specific skills you need to become a next-level leader.
As a guide, the standard chef position demands 50-plus hours a week, including nights, weekends and holidays. For a chef job in a restaurant, expect to work 7 days a week for 12 to 14 hours each shift. And that's pretty much the industry standard.
Do chefs get paid well? ›Chef Salaries in Sydney Area
The average salary for Chef is $190,000 per year in the Sydney Area.
Sous Chef, Cooking School Instructor, Cooks and Assistants, Food Scientist, Kitchen/Culinary Manager, Food Stylist, Catering Manager, among others.
Is there a Bachelor degree in culinary arts? ›What is a BSc in Culinary Arts? It is a degree that prepares students to excel within the kitchen as culinary professionals. Depending upon the focus of the particular program, students learn various kitchen skills.
Is culinary arts a good career? ›Is Culinary Management A Good Career Choice? Yes, as the hospitality & tourism industry re-emerges in 2022, the demand for certified culinary professionals is at its peak. The culinary management and culinary arts jobs will skyrocket even more in the upcoming years for sure.
Is culinary a 2 year course? ›
Associate degree in International Culinary Arts is a comprehensive two-year program for Food and Beverage practitioners. It is a ladderized program that leads to a BS Entrepreneurship major in Culinary Arts.
What is the highest paying job in culinary arts? ›- Restaurant bar manager. ...
- Sous chef. ...
- Nutritionist. ...
- Restaurant manager. ...
- Food safety specialist. ...
- Food and beverage manager. National average salary: $70,745 per year. ...
- Food technologist. National average salary: $72,381 per year. ...
- Private chef. National average salary: $81,686 per year.
Completing a Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts is rewarding. Although the entire Culinary Arts Programcan take up to four years, the skills and techniques that you will develop is worth the while. Completing a Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts has a lot of benefits.
How long does it take to get a culinary degree? ›Culinary schools take one to four years, depending on the program. The most common result is the diploma, associate, or bachelor's degree — master's culinary degrees are scarce in the United States.
Do chefs get paid well? ›Chef Salaries in Sydney Area
The average salary for Chef is $190,000 per year in the Sydney Area.
A chef's routine includes simple to complex math calculations. Examples include counting portions, increasing a recipe yield, determining a ratio for preparing a stock, calculating a plate cost, or establishing a food and labor budget.
What is the difference between BA Culinary Arts and BSc Culinary Arts? ›BA in culinary arts is the study of culinary in kitchen arts like the modern trends application in traditional foods or normal foods . The main work only kitchen. BSC in culinary arts is not present it's BSC in hotel management. This is not only food also the reception the hospitality of the hotel etc.
Are chefs in high demand? ›Job Outlook
Employment of chefs and head cooks is projected to grow 15 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 24,300 openings for chefs and head cooks are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
If you are hoping to become a chef but are worried about not enjoying all the food you will have to cook then fear not. The vast majority of Chefs learn to enjoy tasting a wide range of food as their career progresses. I guess simply put, their taste buds change and adapt.
Is culinary school difficult? ›Yes, culinary school is a challenge! But it's a challenge that thousands upon thousands of students have been able to meet.
Can you become a chef at 30? ›
Becoming a chef after 30 is absolutely possible. There are no specific age limits for starting a culinary career and many people choose to enter the profession late in life. However, the learning curve can be very steep as being a chef is not comparable to any other job role.
What is the difference between a culinary degree and certificate? ›The Culinary Arts Certificate will teach you the basics of what you need, while you gain experience in a kitchen. However, if you are hoping to work in any type of management position, generally a Culinary Degree will be required.
Do you need a culinary degree to be a chef? ›What are the requirements to be a Chef? Technically, you do not need a qualification specifically in Culinary Arts to be a Chef.