It’s a simple matter to enroll in a culinary arts program and turn your passion for cooking into a career in food service management and hospitality. While there is a lot of interest in the industry, admission to culinary school is not as competitive as some other career paths. Moreover, there are various short-term certificate options that can help you qualify for entry-level positions in commercial kitchens in just a few months. A high school diploma and a passion for cooking are standard requirements for admission.
An internship at a local restaurant might be one path to entering the food service industry. However, there are unique benefits to enrolling in a culinary arts training program. In just a matter of weeks, you can acquire basic and advanced cooking techniques. Training in food safety and sanitation, food management, professionalism, marketing, and international cuisine are just a few of the topics covered in culinary arts programs. Hands-on training in the classroom combined with opportunities to work in affiliate restaurants are not only valuable learning experiences but provide bragging rights for your professional resume.
A degree or diploma in culinary arts could help you move up the career ladder. Formal training is essential if you want to make it to the top. Keep in mind that there are many other positions within the food service industry. Research and development, consultancy, or even managing your own business will require a foundation of knowledge in the industry to succeed.
Arizona Culinary Institute
The Certificate in Culinary Arts offered by Arizona Culinary Institute offers a fast-track to entry-level employment in food preparation. Classes move from the fundamental concepts of the profession to more advanced topics. The content will be delivered in lecture and lab sessions. Instructors will teach concepts and theory involved in professional cooking, Classical French cooking, mother sauces, small sauces, knife skills, safety, sanitation, food presentation skills, soups, and stock making. Students who complete the clock hour requirements with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 will receive a Certificate of Completion. They will be able to demonstrate basic to intermediate level cooking techniques, sanitation principles in a professional kitchen, and professionalism appropriate to the food industry.
Program overview:
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Duration: 14 weeks
Quarter credit hours: 19
Contact hours: 315
Prerequisites:
- Submit a copy of a valid state or federal issued photo ID
- Submit a copy of high school diploma or equivalent
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must provide proof of high school diploma or GED equivalency
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Review and sign the Enrollment Agreement
- Pay the $100 non-refundable deposit to hold a spot in the class
Program cost:
The total program cost of $10,625 includes tuition and the student supply fee. The non-refundable tuition deposit of $100 will be applied to the tuition cost.
Website: https://azculinary.edu/
Address: 10585 North 114th St., Suite 401, Scottsdale, Arizona 85259
Phone: 1-866-294-2433
E-Mail: info@azculinary.edu
Estrella Mountain Community College
The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Culinary Arts degree offered by Estrella Mountain Community College trains students for entry-level positions in the food service industry. Theory and practical instruction will highlight the preparation of casual and upscale cuisine for various food operations. Instructors will cover all areas of professional food service including safety, sanitation, culinary techniques, professionalism, food service management, teamwork, communication, and professionalism and ethics. Course modules include ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, Breakfast and Cold Foods, Principles of Professional Cooking, French Cuisine, Food Service Management, International Cuisine, Introductory Nutrition, Commercial Baking Techniques, and Classical Desserts. Students will have the opportunity to earn Certificates of Completion in Culinary Arts I and Culinary Arts II on the way the to AAS. The certificates are transferrable to other culinary degree programs.
Program overview:
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Duration: 4 terms
Semester credit hours: 60-66
Contact hours: 315
Prerequisites:
- Submit a copy of valid state or federal issued photo ID
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must provide proof of high school diploma or GED equivalency
- Submit a formal application prior to scheduling a kitchen tour and interview
- Review and sign the Enrollment Agreement
- Place into college-ready level English, Reading, and Math or equivalent coursework
Program cost:
Tuition costs $85 per credit or $1,020 flat rate tuition for 12 to 21 credits. Financial aid is available to eligible students.
Website: https://www.estrellamountain.edu/institutes/culinary-institute
Address: 3000 North Dysart Road, Avondale, AZ 85392
Phone: 623-935-8000
Shadow Mountain High School
The Culinary Arts Program at Shadow Mountain High School prepares students with technical knowledge and skills to assume entry-level employment in food production or service. Theory and practical sessions will emphasize the planning, selecting, storing, purchasing, preparation, and serving food programs. Food nutrition values, food safety and sanitation procedures, use of commercial equipment, creation of special diets, serving techniques, and managing food service outlets are some other areas covered in the program. Experienced instructors will guide students through specific skills needed for routine functions in a food establishment. These skills include safety and sanitation (for Arizona Food Handler’s Card), baking and pastry, measuring, knife skills, front of the House, cooking methods, nutrition, reading and writing recipes, and time management. Whereas the first modules introduce students to the culinary environment and cover basic kitchen skills and procedures, the final modules encourage the development of advanced cooking skills, leadership and community service skills, and organizational and time management skills. Graduates will be motivated to obtain post-secondary education in the Culinary Arts as they assume entry-level employment in a food service establishment.
Program overview:
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Duration: 2 years
Quarter credit hours: 6
Prerequisites:
- Submit a copy of valid state or federal issued photo ID
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must be currently enrolled in high school
- Submit a completed application for admission
- Obtain approval from a school counselor
Program cost:
Tuition is free for high school students.
Website: https://www.pvschools.net/schools/shadow-mountain-high/academics/signature-programs-shadow-mountain/career-and-technical-education-3
Address: 2902 E. Shea Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85028
Phone: (602) 449-3000
Fax: 602-449-3005
East Valley Institute of Technology
High school students and adults with a passion for cooking can develop skills in all aspects of the food service industry through the Culinary Arts and Baking and Pastry Arts at Evit Culinary School. The training will include hands-on experiences at special functions, diners, and luncheons at the school’s banquet hall. There will also be opportunities to participate in culinary competitions with top chefs and restaurants. This program is a dual enrollment course. It is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation.
Program overview:
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Duration: 2 to 4 semesters
Prerequisites:
- Meet with an Adult Education Advisor
- Complete the Online Application Form
- Provide a copy of photo ID and social security card
- Pay tuition and fees
- Submit a copy of valid state or federal issued photo ID
- Get a parking permit and student ID
Program cost:
The total program cost of $8,292 includes the supply fee. Students must purchase textbooks, supplies, and material. The program does not qualify for federal financial aid. A flexible payment plan is available for all students.
Website: https://www.evit.com/cms/one.aspx?pageId=20598665
Address: 1601 W Main St, Mesa, AZ, 85201
Phone: 480-461-4000