Guide to Culinary Programs and Degrees
Choose culinary arts programs that will help you reach your goals.
Which One is Right for You?
The level of education you choose to pursue depends on many factors, most importantly your career goals.
Below is a brief description of program length, prerequisites and reasons for choosing certain culinary programs over others.
Culinary Certificates
Duration: 1 month to 2 years
Where Culinary Certificates Are Offered: Culinary institute, cooking school, community college or trade/vocational school
Prerequisites: None
Ideal for: People who want training and on-the-job experience as soon as possible
Associate Degree Programs
Duration: 9 months to 2 years
Where Associate Degrees Are Offered: Culinary institute or community college
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED
Ideal for: People who want a degree and on-the-job experience as soon as possible. A higher level of education and more in-depth culinary training than in a certificate program. Also includes general education requirements.
Bachelor's Degree Programs
Duration: 4 years
Where Bachelor's Degrees Are Offered: University
Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED
Ideal for: People who want to be managers, food writers or restaurant owners
Master's Degree Programs
Duration: 2 years beyond bachelor's degree
Where Master's Degrees Are Offered: University
Prerequisites: Bachelor's from an accredited university
Ideal for: People who want to be managers, culinary instructors, restaurant owners, academics, nutritionists or dietitians. Of special interest is the MBA in hospitality management.
FIND A CULINARY SCHOOL TODAY
Tell us a little about yourself and we'll connect you with schools that offer culinary arts programs.