How to Compare Culinary Schools
So you want to work in the restaurant business and are wondering where to go to school. Unfortunately, there is not an "objective" ranking of culinary schools like there is for other colleges. Therefore, it is important to look at many factors and explore the campus to select the best school for you.
Instructions
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Research
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Think about what kind of program you are interested in. Consider time, location and available funding when browsing the culinary schools you see online. Narrow your search results based on what it is that you are interested in. You may be interested in baking and pastry or hospitality. Make sure these programs are offered at the schools you are interested in.
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Check to see if the school is accredited. There are many organizations that will examine culinary schools, but the most important is the American Culinary Federation. This organization will be extraordinarily important to a culinary student and graduate. After graduating from a culinary school that has been accredited by the ACF, a student will be more likely hired.
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Investigate what kind of awards the school has received to help rate its programs.
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Look up the chefs working at the school and examine their work records. See what kinds of schools they graduated from and where they worked before coming to teach at that culinary school.
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Find out where graduated students are now working. Did they find employment quickly after graduating? Are they working in prestigious or well-known restaurants or hotels?
Visit
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When you have narrowed down your preferred schools, visit them. Make an appointment with the admissions counselor and find out everything you can about the school. The admissions counselor will try to sell you on the school's programs, so listen attentively.
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Tour the campus. Observe the students in action in their kitchens and classrooms. Keep an eye out for important details such as cleanliness and order in the classrooms.
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If the school offers it, spend a day and night with a current student. Visit the classes and observe. Get to know the professors and other students and ask them any questions you may have.
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Tips & Warnings
Every school has something different to offer. Weigh your options find the school that best fits your needs and budget.
