Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Culinary Arts
Majors Overview April 25, 2013In this article, students will learn about the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree programs in culinary arts and receiving information on continuing education opportunities, career options, and course topics; so they can make an informed decision about their education.
A.A.S. in Culinary Arts
Students who are enrolled in an Associate of Applied Science program in culinary arts learn basic managerial and cooking skills needed to work in a restaurant or hotel kitchen. They are taught about operational procedures, menu development and food preparation. They also learn professional skills including how to bake pastries, cook hot foods, prepare sauces, inspect ingredient quality and order ingredients. Training is devised to impart an understanding of the nutritional value of foods, operation of professional grade equipment, and managing a restaurant or kitchen.
It usually takes students two years to complete the program. Upon completion of the program, students can pursue positions in the kitchens of restaurants and hotels. Students who have earned their associate degree in culinary arts will have the options of pursuing additional educational opportunities; in addition, it may lead to professional careers in food preparation. Before applying to an associate degree program, students are required to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
While enrolled in an association degree program in culinary arts, students will learn how to cook various foods, such as desserts, baked goods, entrees, and appetizers. An associate degree program in culinary arts may include courses, such as:
•Food purchasing
•Menu planning
•Food safety
•Nutrition
•Pastry production
•Baking
•Hot foods
•Kitchen skills
•Culinary principles
Career Options
Students who have graduated from an Associate of Applied Science program in culinary arts will be prepared for entry-level positions in the food service industry. Students may purse the following careers:
•Restaurant manager
•Menu planner
•Sous chef
•Baker
•Caterer
•Chef
Information on Continuing Education
Upon completion of an A.A.S. degree program, students can further develop their culinary skills by pursuing a bachelor degree program in culinary arts. These degree programs teach students sophisticated business skills related to operating and owning a restaurant, as well as in-depth culinary preparation techniques.
Individuals who have earned their bachelor degree in culinary arts may pursue a master degree program in food studies. These programs concentrate on scholarship and theory instead of food preparation. Students will learn about the relationship between food and cultures, and methods used in food production. The American Culinary Federation offer voluntary certification to aspiring chefs.
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