Culinary Arts

Culinary Arts Degrees

A Culinary Arts degree will teach you the food preparation and business knowledge necessary to pursue a job in the culinary world. Most degree programs in culinary arts offer courses in the classroom as well as in the kitchen. Classes in food sanitation and storage, nutrition, and menu planning will prepare you to make large amounts of delicious food safely, quickly, and efficiently. Business classes in management and accounting will give you the ability to conduct a smooth-running food-service operation.

An associate’s degree in culinary arts is a 2 year program. Students will learn the basics, including food preparation, presentation and nutrition. With an associate degree in culinary arts, you will have the career training you need to attain an entry-level position as a line cook in a restaurant.

A bachelor’s degree in culinary arts will teach you more about food preparation, presentation and nutrition, and will focus more on management level training. Bachelor’s degree programs require 4 years of study and will give students a solid general education. A bachelor’s degree places you in contention for management opportunities in restaurants or a catering business, with greater earning potential. Culinary arts certificate programs are another option for those who are looking for professional training in this field. Programs will vary in length and can be specific to a certain topic such as pastry arts.

Job Opportunities in Culinary Arts

Employment within the field of culinary arts is expected to be steady due to high turnover rates and the need to replace workers. Earnings will vary greatly depending on the position, location and type of employer.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 20010-2011 Edition