One of the most important decisions you can make when pursuing a culinary arts career is choosing the right pastry chef degree and program. While this may seem like a simple task, there are many factors that should be compared and evaluated before enrolling in a program. But what are the most important elements, and how will the influence your final decision?
Types of Programs
While you are in the process of choosing from the long list of pastry chef schools, there will be many decisions you have to make. You will have to evaluate all aspects from accreditation to location, cost and fees. But one of the most important decisions you will have to make is related to the type of pastry chef degree you want to pursue.
Generally, colleges and institutions offer three degree types which include:
- Pastry Chef Certificate – usually a combination of baking and pastry courses, this type of program can take anywhere from 3 months to a year to complete depending on the school requirements. Also, being awarded a certificate can take longer if you only attend a program part-time.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) in Baking & Pastry – this is traditionally a 21 to 24 month program, which offers courses that focus past the bare essentials. Basic coursework includes baking, mixing and kitchen sanitation which may extend into advanced techniques depending on the curriculum. This is the most commonly found (and chosen) pastry chef degree programs.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Pastry Arts – This degree is generally harder to find, but can be located at top notch culinary schools such as The Culinary Institute of America (CIA). Also, in some cases this curriculum is combined with a Management, Food Service or other Professional Studies program.
Fitting the Requirements
Every pastry chef school has guidelines, deadlines and requirements which can vary between institutions. But some of these components are more challenging to complete than others – especially if you are a non-traditional or transferring college student. Most colleges and universities have minimal pastry chef degree requirements that must be met during the enrollment process – which usually includes obtaining a copy of your high school transcript, diploma or copy of your GED. However, there are exceptions to every rule. Some top rated or highly competitive programs require individuals to obtain industry related experience for up to a year before being accepted into a specific academic program.
Affording the Financial Responsibility
One of the primary reasons high school graduates and adults never go to college or only complete part of a program is because of the financial responsibility that comes with a certificate or degree. It is no secret that the costs of higher education are rising, and depending on the number of schools available can put this obligation out of reach. If you find that the pastry chef degree costs are overwhelming there are a couple of options that should be considered.
The first aspect to consider is state and federal funding, with the most commonly used application being the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). But depending on the cost of tuition and fees – which can start at approximately $2000 or more bases on the individual institution, this aid may not be enough. If this is the case, don’t give up on your dreams! Instead investigate and apply for some of the many pastry chef scholarships available today.
There are many aspects to consider when choosing a pastry chef degree. However, some of the most important factors to evaluate are the type and length of the program, affording the costs and fitting the degree requirements. Do you still have unanswered questions? Then start by making a list of pastry chef training programs and contacting admissions. From there, you will be on the fast track of turning your dreams and passion into a reality.
