Culinary Arts

Associate Degree
Tallahassee
Apply for theStart Date
Accreditation
ACF
American Culinary Federation
Program Duration
Keiser University publishes this program as approximately 24 months and 72 credit hours.
Modality
Keiser University offers this program on campus.
Cost
Keiser University charges $12,408 per 16-week semester at full-time load and publishes no total for this program.
Application Fee
A one-time application fee of $55 is charged on enrollment, along with a one-time registration fee of $145.
Financial Aid
Keiser University is eligible to participate in Federal Title IV financial aid programs, including grants and federal student loans.

Culinary Arts is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Tallahassee, FL. The program takes 24 months to complete.

Program Overview

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts provides comprehensive training across all aspects of professional cooking. The culinary arts program covers essential cooking techniques, from basic food preparation to advanced methods used in fine dining. Culinary students explore American cuisine, Classical French techniques, and international cuisines from around the globe, building a solid foundation in both traditional and contemporary styles. Courses address critical areas including food safety, nutrition, baking techniques, pastry preparation, and food service management. Students also develop practical skills in menu planning, food costs control, and supervision. The final course, a 12-credit externship, gives students hands-on experience in real restaurants or food service operations, connecting classroom learning to professional practice.
 
The Center for Culinary Arts at Keiser University holds accreditation from the American Culinary Federation, a mark of quality in culinary education. Recognition from the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS) further validates the program’s commitment to professional standards and global cuisines.

Program Mission

The Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts presents a comprehensive curriculum that includes laboratory sessions, academic preparation and hands-on experience. Students acquire professional knowledge of food, its preparation and handling and cooking from basic to advanced. The curriculum includes an externship to prepare students for entry-level positions in the foodservice industry.

Program Goals

The program equips culinary arts students with the skills needed to prepare wholesome, visually appealing dishes while fostering techniques that emphasize both quality and presentation. In addition, it creates a supportive learning environment designed to nurture confidence, professionalism, and the ability to succeed in the foodservice industry. Ultimately, this foundation prepares students for entry-level employment by developing the practical knowledge and hands-on experience required in real-world culinary settings.

Prerequisites

None. The culinary arts program welcomes students from all backgrounds, including recent high school graduates, career changers, and working professionals seeking to enter the foodservice industry.

Program Highlights
  • Accredited by the American Culinary Federation
  • Recognized by the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS)
  • Hands-on training in professional test kitchens
  • 12-credit externship providing real world experience
  • Small class sizes for personalized instruction
  • Training in global cuisines and baking techniques
  • Food safety certification preparation
  • Focus on both culinary skills and food service management
Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Keiser University’s culinary arts program find career opportunities across the foodservice industry. From restaurants and hotels to catering companies and corporate dining rooms, culinary arts students learn the skills employers seek. The associate in applied science degree prepares students for positions that require both culinary techniques and business understanding, including roles in food service management, menu planning, and food costs analysis.

Career Pathways in Culinary Arts

  • Line cook at restaurants and hotels
  • Sous chef
  • Pastry chef
  • Catering chef
  • Personal chef
  • Food service manager
  • Restaurant supervisor
  • Dining room manager
  • Kitchen manager
  • Banquet chef
  • Country club chef
  • Cruise ship chef
  • Test kitchen specialist
  • Food production manager

Why Choose Keiser University

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Culinary Career

  • Professional cooking techniques and knife skills
  • Baking and pastry preparation methods
  • International cuisine preparation
  • Menu planning and recipe development
  • Food safety and sanitation standards
  • Food costs analysis and inventory management
  • Leadership and team supervision
  • Customer service in dining rooms
  • Kitchen management and organization
  • Meal planning and nutrition basics

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

Request More Info

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I study culinary arts online at Keiser University?

The Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts requires hands-on training in professional kitchens, so students attend classes on campus at select Florida locations. This format gives culinary arts students the practical experience with cooking techniques, baking, and food preparation needed to succeed in the restaurant industry.

What makes this culinary arts program different from other culinary schools?

Keiser University’s culinary arts program holds accreditation from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) and recognition from the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS). Our small class sizes allow for personalized instruction, and students gain real world experience through a 12-credit externship. The program balances culinary techniques with food service management training, preparing graduates for both kitchen and leadership roles.

What career opportunities can I pursue with this degree in culinary arts?

Graduates find positions across the foodservice industry, including line cook, sous chef, pastry chef, catering chef, food service manager, and kitchen supervisor roles in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, corporate dining rooms, and cruise ships. The associate degree provides the foundation for growth into management positions or specialized areas like baking and pastry arts.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

What financial aid options exist for culinary students?

Students in the culinary arts program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

Does this program include an externship?

Yes. The curriculum includes a 12-credit Culinary Arts Externship as the final course. This hands-on experience places students in professional kitchens where they apply their culinary skills and cooking techniques in real restaurants or food service operations, building connections in the hospitality industry while completing their degree.

What cooking techniques and cuisines will I learn?

The degree program covers fundamental and advanced cooking techniques, including American Regional Cuisine, Classical French Cuisine, and International Cuisine. Students also complete courses in baking, pastries and desserts, garde manger, and food preparation methods. Training includes knife skills, food safety, menu planning, and presentation techniques used in professional kitchens.

How long does completing the associate degree take?

Most students complete the 72-credit associate degree in culinary arts in approximately 24 months when attending full-time. The actual timeline varies based on course load, transfer credits, and individual circumstances.

What does tuition cost for the culinary arts program?

Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

What courses make up the culinary arts major?

The 48-credit culinary arts major courses include Farm to Fork, Baking, Mise en Place, Principles of Food, The Craft, American Regional Cuisine, Classical French Cuisine, International Cuisine, Pastries and Desserts, Garde Manger I, Supervision and Cost Controls, Dining Room Service, and a 12-credit Culinary Arts Externship. Students also complete 24 credits of general education courses in areas like English, mathematics, science, and communications.

Do I need prior cooking experience to enroll?

No prior professional experience in cooking or food preparation is required. The culinary arts program welcomes students at all skill levels, from recent high school graduates to career changers and working professionals. Our curriculum starts with fundamental culinary skills and progresses to advanced techniques, ensuring all students build a solid foundation.

How does this culinary program prepare students for real-world culinary operations and guest service?

Students develop the ability to follow production schedules, identify purchasing specifications, and apply baking formulas to ensure consistency in both quality and quantity. In addition, students learn to receive, store, and issue food using cost-effective practices that reduce waste and minimize the risk of contamination. The program also emphasizes critical thinking and fine motor skills, enabling students to prepare hot and cold foods alongside bakery products with a polished, professional presentation. At the same time, students are guided to meet and exceed guest expectations through a strong focus on quality service. All tasks are performed in a safe and sanitary manner in accordance with the Florida Food Code, while maintaining professional standards aligned with the **American Culinary Federation’s Culinarians’ Code.

What accreditation does the program hold?

Keiser University maintains institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Center for Culinary Arts specifically holds accreditation from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) and recognition from the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS), validating the quality of our culinary education.

Student Testimonials

“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Jada Vidal
Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate

I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Amya Black
Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student

Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Tom Buchanan
Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay , a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kadeshia Rose
Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Kennedy Foster
Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate

I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Antigonie Sanabria
Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student

Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Lee Tamburro
Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student

Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Marcus Walton
Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student

What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Haley Roberge
Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate

I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Will Doyle
Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate

Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Alex Avila
Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student

I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Jacvelyne Michel
Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student

“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Ryan G
Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates

Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Jillian Bellis
Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student

Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Solange Mondesir
Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student

Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate

I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Brian Mardy, RN
Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing

I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate

KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Christy Marek
Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier. Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Brandon Alexander Presley
Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Sarah S.
Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Quondra B.
Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Osmara Cailam
Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

Justin Pugh
Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer

“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

John F. Phelan
John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA

“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Wayne Webb
Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate

“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Emily Emilov
Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate

“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate

“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD

“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Marie Boone
Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN

“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Javier Araque
Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Anthony Alber
Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate

“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Ryan Bushey
Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production

“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Danna Murphy
Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Jane Krolewski
Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate

Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Heather S
Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Wayne W.
Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Jason Liska
Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic

I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Desiree James
Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate

My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University

“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Jason Loomis
Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.

I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

Samuel Fernandes
Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University
1 / 45

Location

Tallahassee
1700 Halstead Blvd Building 2
Tallahassee, FL 32309

Accreditation

Keiser University holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The Center for Culinary Arts at Keiser University is accredited by the American Culinary Federation and has been accepted by the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS) into their Recognition of Quality Culinary Education program, demonstrating the program’s commitment to culinary education excellence.

Career outlook

Government figures for Chefs and Head Cooks · typical entry education: High school diploma or equivalent. These describe the occupation, not this school's graduates.

Advance your career

$56,910
median salary in Florida
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023.
$62,470
median salary nationally
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Chefs and Head Cooks.
+6.6%
projected change in employment, 2025–2035
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections.
220,300
people employed in this occupation nationally
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025.

Related job titles

  • Banquet Chef
  • Cake Froster
  • Cake Icer
  • Cake Maker
  • Cake Mixer
  • Certified Executive Chef (CEC)
  • Chef
  • Chef de Cuisine
  • Chef de Froid

Titles reported for this occupation by O*NET. Not a list of jobs this program guarantees.

Required Courses

NameCredits
Culinary Arts Major Courses (48.0 credit hours)
Farm to Fork3
Baking3
Mise en Place3
Principles of Food3
The Craft3
American Regional Cuisine3
Classical French Cuisine3
International Cuisine3
Pastries and Desserts3
Garde Manger I3
Supervision and Cost Controls3
Dining Room Service3
Culinary Arts Externship12
Subtotal48
General Education Courses (24.0 credit hours)
Strategies for Success3
American History Pre 18763
American History Since 18763
Introduction to Psychology3
Sociology3
Subtotal15
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
Speech Communications3
Subtotal3
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Computers3
Subtotal3
English (3.0 Credit Hours)
English Composition I3
English Composition II3
Subtotal6
Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours)
American Literature3
English Literature3
Subtotal6
Mathematics (3.0 credit hours)
Intermediate Algebra3
Subtotal3
Natural Science (6.0 credit hours)
General Biology3
General Biology Laboratory1
Environmental Science3
Advanced Biology3
Advanced Biology Laboratory1
General Marine Biology3
General Chemistry3
General Chemistry Laboratory1
Advanced Chemistry3
Advanced Chemistry Laboratory1
Subtotal22
Program Total106
Ready to get started?
Apply to Culinary Arts at Tallahassee.
Culinary Arts
Keiser University · Tallahassee, FL