Do you love experimenting with new flavors and textures in the kitchen? Are you always up to date on the latest dietary fads? Does your love for food go above and beyond what’s placed in front of you every night at dinner? Then a career in the Culinary Arts may be for you!
Education
According to The College Board, this major is often complete with a certificate or associate’s degree. Helpful high school courses include: health science, chemistry and art. Throughout college you should expect classes within the realm of: food science, nutrition and restaurant management. At most colleges you will also be expected to spend between 15-40 hours in a kitchen weekly, on top of your coursework, so this major will require a lot of energy and dedication.
What to know before you apply
To major in the Culinary Arts you will most likely be required to look into schools specific to culinary. Colleges must be accredited by the American Culinary Federation, and the program should have an emphasis on real world, hands-on experience. It’s crucial to know if their kitchens are up to current industry standards, so your success rate upon graduating is high. Also see if professors at the school have substantial industry experience to help you gain more realistic knowledge.
Salary
A major in the Culinary Arts doesn’t restrict you to only becoming a chef. Other possibilities include: dietetic technicians, dietitians and nutritionists and food service managers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, chefs earned an average of $46,600 in 2011. Dietetic technicians earned an average of $29,200. Dietitians and nutritionists earned an average of $55,460. Food service managers earned an average of $52,620.
