Culinary Arts Degree Options - Video
Students with an interest in culinary arts can find sufficient training through two-year programs at technical colleges or trade schools. Such programs cover topics like food preparation and presentation, food service management, nutrition, baking and international cuisine. With the right amount of culinary training students can go on to become bakers, chefs or food service managers.
Description of Degree
There are many associate-level degree options in the culinary arts field. An A.A.S. in Culinary Arts is the most common. This two-year degree program typically offers training in food preparation, baking, pastries, international cuisines and food service management and can provide students with the skills needed to obtain an entry-level position in a restaurant, hotel or another food service organization. Other degree options include an A.S. in Culinary Arts and Management or an Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts. All three degree programs can be found at a community college or trade school.
Skills Obtained and Typical Courses
Students in an associate's program for Culinary Arts will learn most of their skills through hands-on training. They will be taught specifics in nutrition, kitchen procedures, food presentation and food preparation. Although course names can vary, most curriculums include instruction in:
- Nutrition for Food Service
- Sanitation and Safety
- Quality Fundamentals for the Hospitality Industry
- Fruit, Vegetable and Starch Preparation
- Food Production Operations
- and Principles of Baking
Programs may also offer specialized training in baking and pastries, dining room operations or international cuisine.
Career Options and Occupational Outlook
Students who earn an associate-level degree or certification in Culinary Arts may work in restaurants, hotels or catering companies. Common entry-level positions include those in kitchen management, supervision and food production. Those wishing to move up in their career may use their associate-level degree as a stepping stone to a four-year degree program to become more specialized in a certain area of culinary arts.
Wrap Up
For those interested in the food or hospitality industries, a degree in Culinary Arts is a great training option. Most programs can be completed in a short amount of time and offer the training needed to obtain a position as a cook, food service manager or baker. After a foothold has been established, it is easy for professionals to work their way up by way of experience in this industry. In short, a degree in Culinary Arts is an attractive option for those who would prefer to spend less time in a traditional education setting and more time with hands-on training and field experience.
