Education Needed to Be a Chef

Chef encompasses many roles--food prep worker, cook, line cook, sous chef, chef de cuisine, personal chefs and more. Depending on the type of chef you want to be, different types of education are appropriate.

Training

For low-level chef positions, you may just need on the job training. Some jobs don't even require a high school diploma.

Technical Programs

Technical programs in cooking may last just a few months or up to two years and normally include classes in food safety and handling, cooking, business and computers.

Degree Plans

Colleges and culinary academies offer two- and four-year degrees in cooking that help prepare you for advanced positions by offering training in specialties, including world cuisine and various cooking techniques.

Apprenticeships

Many programs and degrees offer or include apprenticeships with restaurants that allow students to learn while getting credit toward their degree. Many apprenticeships are unpaid.

American Culinary Federation

The ACF accredits more than 200 programs within the United States. It is a voluntary option for programs who want their quality and content of instruction content and facilities recognized.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Chefs, Cooks, and Food Preparation Workers

Resources

• National Restaurants Association: Chef Profiles
• Education Portal: Career Information for Chefs
• American Culinary Federation