Top Culinary Schools

Throughout the United States, the number of culinary institutes is growing. This is because the projected growth of the travel and tourism industries calls for over a million new positions world wide over the next six years. Many of these culinary arts positions will be found in four and five-star restaurants and hotels, both in the United States and in exotic locations around the world.

Top culinary schools include the world famous Le Cordon Bleu, which offers 12 locations in the United States. The Florida Culinary Institute offers bachelor-level programs for those who want to go as far as possible in the food industry. A highly acclaimed business college, Johnson & Wales, also has culinary schools in various locations, and it offers bachelor's programs. Other culinary schools offer programs that lead to diplomas, certificates, and/or associate's degrees.

The best culinary schools generally offer both financial aid and some scholarships. Courses run from 12 months to several years, depending on the level of expertise and certification desired. They feature hundreds of hours of course work as well as a similar number of hours in fully stocked kitchens, where students may work and learn alongside dedicated professional chefs.

A diploma or degree from one of the top culinary schools will be very helpful when it comes time to get that first professional job. Whether the prospective chef wants to pursue a career as a master chef, a restaurant owner, or as a chef in a major hotel, the right credentials will go a long way to getting him or her started. Find a top culinary institute in your area online.