Choosing a Culinary Arts Program

Which culinary arts program is right for you? There are several key factors to consider, but ultimately it depends on what you want out of culinary school. If you already have experience in the industry, you may want to choose a culinary arts program that focuses on advanced techniques or a culinary specialty. If you're undecided about how to focus your career, a culinary arts program with a broad focus may be the right choice for you.

As you begin looking at culinary arts programs, you should consider the following factors:

• Cost of Tuition – Are you willing to spend what it takes to go to a top culinary school? Or are you looking for a good school within a specific budget? The cost of education is a major factor, especially considering the reality that entry-level jobs in the industry often come with entry-level wages. The good news is that there are quality culinary training programs at every budget level, and there is often financial aid to help you pay for school.
• Location – Are you willing to relocate? Or do you want to stay close to home? If you want to stay close to home, your choice of schools may be more limited. If you're willing to move, the world, as they say, is your oyster.
• Length of the Program – Do you want to get through a training program as quickly as possible and enter the workforce? Or are you looking to earn a culinary degree like an associate's or bachelor's that will serve as a foundation for more advanced education? You have a choice of culinary arts programs that come in many different forms. Some certificate programs may be only a few weeks of intensive training. At the other end of the spectrum, a bachelor's degree is generally a 4-year program that will provide well-rounded culinary training. For more information about the different programs available, see our Guide to Culinary Programs.
• Professional Background of Instructors – Is the professional background of the faculty important to you? Some schools employ instructors who work in the industry and who may even be well-known chefs. Do your research on the teachers at schools you are considering. Having the opportunity to learn from chefs you admire can be inspiring as well as educational.
• Career Placement Services and Externships – Does the school you're interested in have career placement services or externship opportunities? When speaking with admissions counselors, find out if they have placement statistics on previous graduates. You should also find out whether there are externship requirements for their culinary arts programs. Any work experience you can get will help you prepare for the career you want.

Many people have ideas about what makes a culinary school good. While seeking expert advice can be helpful, the ultimate decision is yours. It's your career. Figure out what is most important to you, and choose a culinary arts program that fits you.