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Culinary Arts (AAS)

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Culinary Arts Undergraduate (Semester Credit) Associate of Applied Science

College

College of Culinary Arts

Program CIP Code

12.0503

The School of Culinary Arts, Culinary Institute of Virginia, educational program prepares students for success in the competitive field of food service. The program prepares students for entry level positions in the food service industry. Emphasis is placed on the development of professional culinary skills, through standards-based, hands-on training. In the Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts degree, students will be taught skills in:

  • Foundational methods and techniques used throughout the foodservice industry.

  • Culinary and baking recipe development and execution.

  • Ensuring a safe and sanitary kitchen.

  • Applying purchasing, nutrition and supervision concepts in the foodservice environment.

About Culinary Arts

A career in the Culinary Arts allows you to use your creative skills in creating, preparing, and serving food that your customers will enjoy. Demand for qualified foodservice personnel can be global, there are no geographic boundaries. Culinarians plan and cook menus combining flavor profiles in ways that make memorable meals while maintaining a safe, clean kitchen area. Depending on the student’s work ethic, experience, and dependability, the graduate may work as a cook, pantry cook, banquet cook, line cook, or sous chef, with exceptional opportunity for advancement.

Working in a food service position is physically very demanding. Long periods of standing, lifting heavy objects and long periods between breaks are not uncommon in the industry. Hepatitis A vaccination may be required.

Background checks, drug screening and/or security clearances may be requirements for employment depending on the food service outlet.

Recommended Certifications

Students may obtain the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) ServSafe Food Protection Manager and ServeSafe Alcohol certifications as a result of their studies. The Culinary Institute of Virginia is accredited by the American Culinary Federation. Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to apply for initial certification of Certified Culinarian.