Choose the Right Culinary Degree:
Compare Certificates, Diplomas and Associate's Degrees
Compare Diplomas & Associate Degrees
Associate's, certificate and diploma programs often share the same curriculum and an emphasis on hands-on learning. Your decision may boil down to what you can afford, how quickly you'd like to enter the job market and the nature of your future career plans.
Diplomas & Certificates
- Does not count toward a BA
- May not require a high school diploma/GED
- Usually a 1-year program
- Located in a community college or culinary institute
- Coursework focuses on culinary applications only
- Provides student with a foundation for a culinary career
Find Culinary Diploma Programs
Associate's Degrees
- Counts toward a BA
- Requires a high school diploma or GED
- Usually a 2-year program
- Located in a community college or culinary institute
- Courses outside of culinary major are required
- Provides student with a foundation for a culinary career