Why This Matters
-
52% OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS SAY AN ASSOCIATE DEGREE IS REQUIRED
In a survey conducted by the Occupational Information Network, 52 percent of culinary managers said an associate degree was needed for the job. Many managers do not require this level of education; 17 percent said you will only need a post-secondary certificate.
-
CULINARY JOBS EXPECTED TO GROW BY 5%
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects there will be 9,200 more chef and head cook jobs in 2032 than there were in 2022.
-
CHEFS AND HEAD COOKS EARN AN AVERAGE SALARY OF $56,520
The top 10 percent of chefs and head cooks earn more than $91,520. Chefs and head cooks tend to make the most money in the amusement, gambling, and recreation industries (average salary of $62,930) and the least in restaurants and other eating places ($52,830).
Our Research
This list features some of the best culinary programs in the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for postsecondary education.
We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of culinary programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
- 28 hours to write this article
- 65 universities and colleges we assessed
- 126 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Best Culinary Schools
intelligent score 97.84
Award
Intelligent Pick
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Intelligent Pick
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Applied Food Science ; Bachelor of Science in Baking & Pastry Arts ; Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts ; Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition ; Bachelor of Science in Culinary Science & Product Development ; Bachelor of Science in Food & Beverage Entrepreneurship ; Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Food Systems
Required Credits to Graduate
120-123 credits
Department College of Food Innovation & Technology
Estimated Cost per Credit
$993 per credit
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected], [email protected]
Phone:
866-598-2427
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Applied Food Science ; Bachelor of Science in Baking & Pastry Arts ; Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts ; Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition ; Bachelor of Science in Culinary Science & Product Development ; Bachelor of Science in Food & Beverage Entrepreneurship ; Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Food Systems
Required Credits to Graduate
120-123 credits
intelligent score 95.56
Award
Best for Farm To Table
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Farm To Table
Delivery Format
On-campus, Online (Boulder Campus)
Programs
Boulder Campus: Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts; Associate of Occupational Studies in Baking & Pastry, Diploma in Culinary Arts, Diploma in Pastry Arts; Diploma in Plant-Based Cuisine; Distance Learning: Associate of Occupation Studies in Hospitality and Restaurant Operations Management; Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts; Associate of Occupational Studies in Baking and Pastry; Associate of Occupational Studies in Plant-Based Culinary Arts; Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations; Diploma in Professional Pastry Arts Diploma, Diploma in Plant-Based Culinary Arts
Austin Campus: Associate of Applied Science Degree in Culinary Arts; Associate of Applied Science Degree in Pastry; Pastry Arts Diploma; Culinary Arts Diploma
Required Credits to Graduate
44 - 90 credit hours
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$290 - $353 per credit
accreditation
Boulder Campus: Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training
Austin Campus: Council on Occupational Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected] ; [email protected]
Phone:
877-249-0305
Delivery Format
On-campus, Online (Boulder Campus)
Programs
Boulder Campus: Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts; Associate of Occupational Studies in Baking & Pastry, Diploma in Culinary Arts, Diploma in Pastry Arts; Diploma in Plant-Based Cuisine; Distance Learning: Associate of Occupation Studies in Hospitality and Restaurant Operations Management; Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts; Associate of Occupational Studies in Baking and Pastry; Associate of Occupational Studies in Plant-Based Culinary Arts; Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations; Diploma in Professional Pastry Arts Diploma, Diploma in Plant-Based Culinary Arts
Austin Campus: Associate of Applied Science Degree in Culinary Arts; Associate of Applied Science Degree in Pastry; Pastry Arts Diploma; Culinary Arts Diploma
Required Credits to Graduate
44 - 90 credit hours
intelligent score 95.04
Award
Best for Hands-on Learning
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Hands-on Learning
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Professional Studies in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
132 credits
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$911 per credit
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-285-46279
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Professional Studies in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
132 credits
intelligent score 91.89
Award
Best in the Northeast
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best in the Northeast
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Career Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
13 courses
Department School of Culinary Arts
Estimated Cost per Credit
$36,050 - $40,660 program cost
accreditation
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
888-354-2433
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Career Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
13 courses
intelligent score 91.77
Award
Best for Hospitality Industry
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Hospitality Industry
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
69 credits
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$889 per credit
accreditation
Accreditation Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
713-358-5054
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
69 credits
intelligent score 91.19
Award
Best Faculty
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Faculty
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts and Management
Required Credits to Graduate
96 credits
Department Institute for the Culinary Arts
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $66 per credit; Non-Resident: $99 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-228-9553
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts and Management
Required Credits to Graduate
96 credits
intelligent score 90.93
Award
Best in the Southeast
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best in the Southeast
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
72 credits
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,440 per credit
accreditation
World Association of Chefs Societies
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
866-534-7372
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
72 credits
intelligent score 90.12
Award
Best for Pastry & Baking Arts
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Pastry & Baking Arts
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Food Service Management: Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department School of General Education & Professional Studies
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $212 per credit ; Non-Resident: $502 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
304-333-3684
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Food Service Management: Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 90.11
Award
Best in the Midwest
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best in the Midwest
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science - Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
66-67 credits
Department Great Lakes Culinary Institute
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-District: $156 per credit; In-State: $300 per credit; Out-of-State: $400 per credit; International: $452 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
231-995-1080
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science - Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
66-67 credits
intelligent score 89.84
Award
Best in the Southwest
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best in the Southwest
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
67 credits
Department School of Business, Hospitality & Public Services
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $180 per credit; Non-Resident: $198 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation
more program informationEmail:
Phone:
702-651-7416
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
67 credits
intelligent score 89.71
Award
Best for Healthy Cooking
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Healthy Cooking
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department School of Hospitality Management and the Culinary Arts
Estimated Cost per Credit
$624 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation's Educational Foundation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
646-393-8479
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 89.59
Award
Best Athletics
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Athletics
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Business Management
Required Credits to Graduate
61 credits
Department Hotel, Culinary Arts, and Tourism Institute
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $120 - $241 per credit ; Non-Resident: $408 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Foundation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
410-777-2325
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Business Management
Required Credits to Graduate
61 credits
intelligent score 89.46
Award
Best for Sommeliers
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Sommeliers
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
B.A. in Culinary Arts ; B.A. in Hospitality Management ; A.A.S. in Culinary Arts ; A.A.S. in Baking and Pastry
Required Credits to Graduate
94-192 quarter credits
Department Kendall College of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management
Estimated Cost per Credit
$655 per quarter credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
888-705-3632
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
B.A. in Culinary Arts ; B.A. in Hospitality Management ; A.A.S. in Culinary Arts ; A.A.S. in Baking and Pastry
Required Credits to Graduate
94-192 quarter credits
intelligent score 86.92
Award
Best Student Organizations
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Student Organizations
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
94 credits
Department College Of Hospitality Studies
Estimated Cost per Credit
$495 per credit
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-844 1354
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
94 credits
intelligent score 85.56
Award
Best for Tuition-paid Travel
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Tuition-paid Travel
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts ; Bachelor of Science in Pastry Arts ; Bachelor's Degree in Restaurant Management ; Bachelor of Science in Hotel Management ; Associate of Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate Degree in Restaurant Management ; Associate of Science in Hotel Management
Required Credits to Graduate
99.5-197 credits
Department The Restaurant School
Estimated Cost per Credit
$9,825 per term
accreditation
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
267-295-2311
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts ; Bachelor of Science in Pastry Arts ; Bachelor's Degree in Restaurant Management ; Bachelor of Science in Hotel Management ; Associate of Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate Degree in Restaurant Management ; Associate of Science in Hotel Management
Required Credits to Graduate
99.5-197 credits
intelligent score 82.87
Award
Best Co-op Program
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Co-op Program
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts and Science
Required Credits to Graduate
185 credits
Department College of Nursing and Health Professions
Estimated Cost per Credit
$790 per credit
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
267-359-5663
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts and Science
Required Credits to Graduate
185 credits
intelligent score 82.8
Award
Best for Dual Enrollment
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Dual Enrollment
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Arts in Culinary Arts ; Associate in Culinary Baking and Pastry Arts ; Culinary Arts Diploma ; Culinary Baking and Pastry Arts Diploma ; Food Production Worker Technical Certificate of Credit ; Prep Cook Technical Certificate of Credit
Required Credits to Graduate
65-66 credits
Department Savannah Culinary Institute
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $100 per credit ; Out-of-State: $200 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
912-443-5513
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Arts in Culinary Arts ; Associate in Culinary Baking and Pastry Arts ; Culinary Arts Diploma ; Culinary Baking and Pastry Arts Diploma ; Food Production Worker Technical Certificate of Credit ; Prep Cook Technical Certificate of Credit
Required Credits to Graduate
65-66 credits
intelligent score 82.8
Award
Best Scholarships
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Scholarships
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate in Applied Science in Management Development - Hospitality
Required Credits to Graduate
64-68 credits
Department Culinary Studies Institute
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-District: $97 per credit; Out-of-District: $188 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation ; Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
248-522-3700
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate in Applied Science in Management Development - Hospitality
Required Credits to Graduate
64-68 credits
intelligent score 82.47
Award
Best for Active-Duty Military
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Active-Duty Military
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts ; Associate in Occupational Studies in Hospitality and Culinary Management ; Associate in Occupational Studies in Baking & Pastry
Required Credits to Graduate
65 credits
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$390 - $446 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
877-533-3198
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts ; Associate in Occupational Studies in Hospitality and Culinary Management ; Associate in Occupational Studies in Baking & Pastry
Required Credits to Graduate
65 credits
intelligent score 81.89
Award
Best Facilities
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Facilities
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Professional Studies in Culinary Management
Required Credits to Graduate
123 credits
Department Culinary Management Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$620 per credit
accreditation
Accrediting Commission of the American Culinary Federation Educational Institute
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
518-327-6227
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Professional Studies in Culinary Management
Required Credits to Graduate
123 credits
intelligent score 80.36
Award
Best Industry Partners
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Industry Partners
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
71-120 credits
Department School of Business, Entrepreneurship, and Professional Development:
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-District: $200 per credit; Out-of-District: $265 per credit; Out-of-State: $350 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
313-845-9645
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
71-120 credits
intelligent score 80.16
Award
Best Alumni Network
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Alumni Network
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
65 credits
Department Business, Management & Technology
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-District: $122 per credit; In-State: $171 per credit; Out-of-State: $233 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation ; Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
314-644-9127
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
65 credits
intelligent score 79.97
Award
Best for Veterans
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Veterans
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science-"Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
66-67 credits
Department Career/Technical Education Division
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $133 per credit; Out-of-State: $266 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
334-420-4310
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science-"Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
66-67 credits
intelligent score 78.58
Award
Best Advisors
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Advisors
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Arts in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Arts in Baking & Pastry
Required Credits to Graduate
67-77 credits
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $373.50 per credit; Non-Resident: $846 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Foundation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
808-984-3267
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Arts in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Arts in Baking & Pastry
Required Credits to Graduate
67-77 credits
intelligent score 77.89
Award
Best Externships
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Externships
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Food Service Management ; Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts; Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts and Applied Nutrition ; Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60-120 credits
Department College of Culinary Arts
Estimated Cost per Credit
$8,292 per semester
accreditation
Accrediting Commission of the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
844-334-4466
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Food Service Management ; Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts; Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts and Applied Nutrition ; Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60-120 credits
intelligent score 76.88
Award
Best Student-Teacher Ratio
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Student-Teacher Ratio
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
66 credits
Department Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$133.93 per credit
accreditation
Accrediting Commission of the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
504-671-6199
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
66 credits
intelligent score 76.85
Award
Best for Catering
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Catering
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
67 credits
Department Secchia Institute for Culinary Education
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $151 per credit; Non-Resident: $321 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
616-234-3300
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
67 credits
intelligent score 76.19
Award
Best for Leadership Development
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Leadership Development
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science Bakery/Pastry ; Associate of Applied Science in Food and Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department Culinary | Pastry | Hospitality Division
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $135 per credit; Out-of-State: $200 per credit
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
972-669-6400
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science Bakery/Pastry ; Associate of Applied Science in Food and Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 75.32
Award
Best in the Southwest
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best in the Southwest
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science Bakery/Pastry ; Associate of Applied Science in Food and Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department Business and Entrepreneurship Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $215 per credit; Out-of-State: $466 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Foundation's Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
210-212-5266
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science Bakery/Pastry ; Associate of Applied Science in Food and Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 74.97
Award
Best On-campus Housing
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best On-campus Housing
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
72 credits
Department Hospitality and Culinary Management
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $133 per credit; Out-of-State: $266 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
251-580-2111
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
72 credits
intelligent score 74.69
Award
Best for Transfer Students
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Transfer Students
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department HCCC Culinary Arts Institute
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $149 per credit; Out-of-State: $298 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
201-360-4630
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 74.05
Award
Best Bachelor's Degree Program
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Bachelor's Degree Program
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Bachelor of Business Administration in Culinary Arts Management
Required Credits to Graduate
64-122 credits
Department School of Business and Hospitality Management
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $295 per credit; Out-of-State: $452 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
607-746-4550
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Bachelor of Business Administration in Culinary Arts Management
Required Credits to Graduate
64-122 credits
intelligent score 73.05
Award
Best for French Cuisine
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for French Cuisine
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
70 credits
Department Business & Information Technology
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $96 per credit; Out-of-State: $192 per credit
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
207-741-5800
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
70 credits
intelligent score 71.72
Award
Best Counseling Services
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Counseling Services
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
62 credits
Department Hospital Arts Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $237 per credit; Out-of-State: $360 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
319-848-8770
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
62 credits
intelligent score 70.8
Award
Best for Work-Study
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Work-Study
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Specialized Business in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
90 credits
Department The Pennsylvania School of Culinary Arts
Estimated Cost per Credit
$400 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
717-757-1100
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate in Specialized Business in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
90 credits
intelligent score 69.86
Award
Best for Beverage Management
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Beverage Management
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science - Baking and Pastry Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department School of Public and Social Services
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $149.55 per credit; Out-of-State: $292.57 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
888-489-5463
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science - Baking and Pastry Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 69.83
Award
Best for Prior Learning Credits
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Prior Learning Credits
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department Culinary & Hospitality
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $158.20 per credit; Non-Resident: $228.70 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
920-735-4740
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 69.52
Award
Best for Adult Learners
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Adult Learners
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science in Culinary Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department Hospitality and Culinary Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $104.39 per credit ; Out-of-State: $379.61 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
813-253-7000
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science in Culinary Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 69.39
Award
Best Financial Aid Options
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Financial Aid Options
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Arts in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
48 units
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$46 per unit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Educational Foundation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
213 444-7706
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Arts in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
48 units
intelligent score 64.99
Award
Best for Culinology
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Culinology
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science: Culinology
Required Credits to Graduate
66 - 70 credits
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$7,722 per semester
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
507-537-6462
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Bachelor of Science: Culinology
Required Credits to Graduate
66 - 70 credits
intelligent score 63.64
Award
Best Small Business Center
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Small Business Center
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science in Baking & Pastry Arts ; Associate of Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Science in Foodservice Technology ; Associate of Science in Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
70 credits
Department Culinary and Hospitality Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $76 per credit ; Out-of-State: $268 per credit
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
252-222-6154
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science in Baking & Pastry Arts ; Associate of Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Science in Foodservice Technology ; Associate of Science in Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
70 credits
intelligent score 63.3
Award
Best for Food Purchasing and Inventory
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Food Purchasing and Inventory
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $134 per credit; Out-of-State: $175 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation Education Foundation and the Accrediting Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
501-812-2231
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 63.03
Award
Best for Cajun and Creole Cuisine
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Cajun and Creole Cuisine
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department Chef John Folse Culinary Institute
Estimated Cost per Credit
$302.13 per credit
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
985-493-2700
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 61.94
Award
Best Hybrid Program
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Hybrid Program
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
Department Greta W. Watson Culinary Arts Center
Estimated Cost per Credit
$283 per credit
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
254-867-4868
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
60 credits
intelligent score 61.34
Award
Best Apprenticeships
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
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Best Apprenticeships
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
68 credits
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $112 per credit; Non-Resident: $223 per credit
accreditation
American Culinary Federation
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
913-469-3809
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
68 credits
intelligent score 60.67
Award
Best in the Northwest
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best in the Northwest
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
91 credits
Department Oregon Coast Culinary Institute
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $99 per credit; Non-Resident: $297 per credit
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
541-888-7636
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate of Applied Science Culinary Arts ; Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
91 credits
intelligent score 60.45
Award
Best for Culinary Managers
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best for Culinary Managers
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
65 credits
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$100 per credit
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-928-0283
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
65 credits
intelligent score 60.39
Award
Best Disability Services
Rankings
School Information
Graduation Rate:
Admission Rate:
Urbanicity:
School Size:
No
Award
Best Disability Services
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
64 credits
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $163 per credit; Non-Resident: $164 per credit
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
712-274-6403
Delivery Format
On-campus
Programs
Associate Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Required Credits to Graduate
64 credits
Discover More Options
What You Should Know About This Degree
There are many programs similar to culinary schools, such as food service management, dietician, and nutritionist programs. Before you commit to a particular program, make sure that it is the best fit for your career goals.
We recommend you choose a program offering internship or externship opportunities. Culinary workplaces can be a hectic environment, and this hands-on experience is the best way to prepare yourself for your first job in the industry.
The American Culinary Federation (ACF) is the main certifying body in the culinary industry. They offer 16 professional certifications, which cover different types of cooking such as savory and pastry as well as different levels of expertise such as sous chef, executive chef, and master chef.
Once you have graduated from a culinary school and earned your accreditation, you will find there are many different career paths available to you. For example, you could work in a restaurant, become a personal/private chef, or teach courses at a culinary school.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching culinary schools:
- Am I eligible for this program? Generally, you only need a high school diploma or GED credential to be accepted into a culinary school. Review the program’s admissions requirements to see if there are any other qualifications you need to meet.
- How long does it take to complete this program? Most certificate programs can be completed within one year, while associate degree programs tend to take two years, and bachelor’s degree programs tend to take four years. Some schools offer accelerated programs, which allow you to reduce the amount of time it takes to earn your degree.
When you are researching different culinary schools, you should always keep track of the application deadlines and application materials that you need to submit. If you can’t find this information on the school’s website, contact their admissions department.
You should also talk to the admissions department about any scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options that are available to you. If you are already working in the culinary field, your employer may have an assistance program you can use to help pay for your educational expenses.