If you’re thinking about going to school to become a chef, choosing the right program can be daunting and scary.
Culinary Arts Programs can range from bachelor’s degrees to associate’s degrees to simple certification programs, so it can be confusing to know which kind of program might be right for you. If you’re thinking about your long-term future, you probably want to know what the best programs are and where they’re located. Going to a reputable program will help you get better jobs and will help you build better connections within the field of culinary arts. These four culinary programs are some of the most well-known programs in the United States.
The Culinary Institute of America (CIA)
The CIA has campuses in New York, Texas, and California. Students will learn a wealth of culinary skills in all areas of cooking. Students are trained by some of the most highly regarded chefs, and their learning is enhanced through the close-knit community at these campuses. The CIA offers a variety of both bachelor’s and associate’s degree programs, and they also offer specialized courses for students who want to learn about culinary arts but aren’t necessarily seeking it as a career.
Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts
Le Cordon Bleu boasts over 100 years of experience in the culinary arts. Le Cordon Bleu has campuses in 16 different cities throughout the United States, and even offers some online programs. Unlike traditionally semester programs, Le Cordon Bleu allows students to enroll in programs that start every six weeks, which offer flexibility. Through these programs, students learn standard ways of cooking global cuisine, so the program isn’t just based on one specialization. Le Cordon Bleu offers a certificate program and an associate’s degree program.
Institute of Culinary Education (ICE)
ICE was founded in 1975 and is housed in New York City. The Institute offers four different diploma programs in Culinary Arts, Baking and Pastry Arts, Culinary Management, and Hospitality Management. With their certification programs ranging from eight months to 13, ICE provides high-caliber training with a minimal time commitment. ICE is one of the best national culinary programs, and their high standards are derived from the teaching chefs, staff, and facilities.
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
August Escoffier was a world renowned French chef who started this school with a campus in Austin, Texas, and Boulder, Colorado. This school offers a variety programs offered at times to meet your schedule, and it’s known for its focus on green eating and farm-to-table principals. The school offers both a culinary arts program and a baking and pastry arts program. If you want a unique experience that focuses on professionalism, farm-to-table eating, and offers small class sizes, the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts may be perfect for you.
