Choosing the Culinary School That's Right for You

There are literally hundreds of culinary schools in the United States and abroad. Some are large and very well known and others are smaller and somewhat unique. In actuality, culinary schools have recently become a popular educational choice, because of FoodTV and similar networks.

Even if the food networks were all taken off the air tomorrow, jobs in the food industry would still be in high demand. Why? Because everyone has to eat.

Choosing a culinary school depends on several factors such as the actual position you want to train for, your financial situation and your location.

The majority of culinary schools are rather expensive. But, fortunately you don't have to promise your first-born child, in order to attend. Many culinary schools offer a scholarship program and financial aid to eligible students. Most also offer a lifetime placement service, as well.

A great place to begin your initial research in regard to choosing the right culinary school is CookingSchools.com (http://www.cookingschools.com). As of this writing, the site contains information on almost 1,300 culinary schools and programs, worldwide.

The database gives you the option of searching, either, by program specialty or campus location. In addition, the site is packed with articles and resources that will assist you in making the proper educational decision. It is possible to literally spend hours here gathering program information.

You might see yourself as an Executive Chef, someday. Job duties include training and overseeing restaurant staff, menu planning, purchasing, etc. It would also be up to you to come up with innovative recipes to add to the menu.

Do you love to bake gooey, decadent desserts? There are culinary schools that specialize in offering just this specific curriculum. Pastry Chefs find employment in large hotels, bakeries, bistros, restaurants, resorts, private clubs, corporate dining rooms and on cruise ships.

A Pastry Chef is usually responsible for ordering, menu planning, creating new dessert recipes and the actual, advance preparation of dessert items. (Plating is normally done by other kitchen staff, at the time of the order.)

A Sous Chef oversees the line cook staff and reports to the Executive Chef. Because the Executive Chef spends a great deal of time performing office duties, the Sous Chef is often left to supervise kitchen activity.

All of these professions are possible options, upon graduation from a culinary school. Other options include baker, cake decorator, food writer, restaurant owner, dietary specialist and food safety expert.

It is very important to do your research before choosing the culinary school that is right for you. Remember… ask questions, ask questions, ASK QUESTIONS! If at all possible, physically visit the campus, as well.

Is the culinary school accredited? Do you have access to instructor credentials? What is the average class size? What is the length of the program? How in-depth are the courses? Will you receive advanced training?

These are just a few of the questions you should ask during the beginning stages of your culinary school research.