Professional Baker is a Diploma program (Hybrid) offered by Sullivan University in Lexington, KY. The program takes 12 months (54 credit hours) to complete, with a total tuition of $31,590.
Program Overview
Diploma
This program prepares students for entry-level positions in the baking industry by providing a strong foundation in baking principles and techniques. Students gain practical knowledge of ingredients, production methods, and industry standards essential for success in both retail and independent bakery settings. Coursework includes hands-on experience in producing yeast breads, breakfast pastries, pies, cookies, and assorted desserts in various batch sizes. Students train in the University's professional baking laboratories to develop the technical skills and confidence needed for a career in the baking profession.
Admission Requirements & Process
At Sullivan University, we’re here to help you unlock your potential with flexible, career-driven programs that fit your life. The university has a rolling admissions policy and individually interviews and advises each person seeking admission. Ready to take the next step? Apply online, connect with an admissions advisor, explore financial aid options, and submit your transcript.
General Requirements
- Admissions InterviewApplicants must meet with an Admissions representative and complete an interview appointment. Interviews often take place at a Sullivan University location but can also be…
- Application and FeeApplicants must complete an application for admission to the university with a paid application and registration fee.
- High School Diploma or GEDAt the time of matriculation, a regular student must possess a high school diploma, have an official General Educational Development (GED) certificate, or a homeschooled…
- Prior College TranscriptsRequest transcripts from all postsecondary educational institutions previously attended, sent directly to Sullivan University, so that all possible transfer credit can be applied.
- Culinary Technical StandardsAll College of Hospitality Studies students must meet certain essential functions and technical standards, with or without reasonable accommodation, such as working in a…
Application Process
- 1Meet with an Admissions RepresentativeConnect with an admissions advisor. Sullivan University individually interviews and advises each person seeking admission; the interview often takes place at a Sullivan University location, or it can be conducted off campus or virtually by telephone and computer.
- 2Apply OnlineComplete an application for admission to the university with a paid application and registration fee. Sullivan has a rolling admissions policy with no application deadline, so it is best to apply as early as possible before your anticipated start date.
- 3Submit Your TranscriptsProvide proof of your high school diploma, GED or homeschool completion, and request transcripts from all postsecondary institutions you previously attended to be sent directly to Sullivan University so all possible transfer credit can be applied.
- 4Complete the FAFSAExplore financial aid options. The first step for applying for federal and state aid is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Completing and submitting the FAFSA is free and quick, and it gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to pay for college.Fill Out the FAFSA
- 5Attend OrientationPrior to beginning classes, Sullivan students are required to participate in an orientation program, held before the start of each quarter, that introduces University policy as well as staff and faculty. Some programs have additional mandatory orientations, which are discussed with the student upon acceptance to the program.
Program Schedule
54 Credit Hours. Length: 12 months. 54 quarter hours is equivalent to 36 semester hours.
Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid
Affording Sullivan University
Some students may believe they are not financially able to attend a college or university; however, almost everyone can afford Sullivan University. Sullivan has an Office of Financial Aid with a staff that is thoroughly knowledgeable about today's student aid programs, private loan plans, scholarships, and grants. In addition, the staff is current with all educational programs for veterans, as well as national, state, and local vocational rehabilitation programs.
Financial Aid Programs
Students attending Sullivan have access to numerous federal and state student financial aid programs. The first step for applying for federal and state aid is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many states and colleges use your FAFSA data to determine your eligibility for state and school aid.
Federal Pell Grants are gift aid from the United States Federal Government, and available to all who are eligible by demonstrating a financial need as determined by the FAFSA. A lifetime undergraduate limit applies. Repayment is not required.
William D. Ford Federal Direct Student Loans are low interest loans available through the Direct Student Loan Program, under which the federal government makes loans directly to students and parents through schools. Students must maintain at least a half-time enrollment status to be eligible and cannot be in default on any existing federal student loans. Aggregate limits apply.
In no case can the total amount of a student's financial aid exceed his or her cost of attendance. Financial Information can be found in the Catalog Supplement A.
Total program tuition is $31,590 (tuition only; any fees billed separately).
Required Courses
| Subject # | Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
Career Outcomes
Career Services for Graduates
The Career Services (CS) department plays a major role in the successful employment of graduates in their field of study. A highly qualified and professional staff works with each graduate individually to determine the best use of their skills and abilities within their chosen career field. The CS staff assists graduates with all aspects of the career search process through the following services:
- Resume and cover letter preparation
- Resume submission to employers
- Mock interviews
- Assistance with employer and salary research
- Job search planning sessions
- Career workshops/class presentations
In addition to individual coaching, CS provides opportunities for graduates to interact with area employers through career fairs. Employers are invited to speak to classes and introduce their organizations through information sessions and on-campus recruiting.
The tuition-free review privilege and tuition-free, nationwide career service are part of Sullivan University's national reputation as a leader in career education. Note: These services are only available to graduates of a full program of study who have met all obligations, financial or otherwise, to the university and whose account is in good standing.
What to Expect as a Student at Sullivan University
Sullivan University is a career-focused institution operating on a quarter system, with many undergraduate programs set up on a 2 + 2 (stair-step) format that lets a student progress through an associate degree on the way to a bachelor's degree. Programs may require a combination of face-to-face, hybrid, or online courses; online programs may require physical/face-to-face engagement at an onsite and/or offsite location. Many Allied Health, Nursing, and Pharmacy programs include hands-on labs, clinical rotations, or externships completed at approved sites, and require background checks, immunizations, and a satisfactory health evaluation.
Location
Accreditation & Approvals
Institutional Accreditation
Sullivan University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters and doctorate degrees. Sullivan University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels.
Licensure and Approvals
Sullivan University is licensed by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education. Sullivan University has been approved by Kentucky to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA).
Programmatic Accreditation and Approvals
- The Associate of Science in Health Information Management program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).
- The Medical Assistant Diploma program offered in Louisville is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB).
- The Practical Nursing Diploma and Associate of Science in Nursing programs are approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN). Effective December 13, 2024, the PN and ASN programs are candidates for initial accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Effective May 16, 2025, the RN-BSN program is a candidate for initial accreditation by the ACEN.
- The pharmacy technician program conducted by Sullivan University, Louisville, KY, is accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).
- The Limited Medical Radiography Diploma program is approved by the Kentucky Board of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (KBMIRT).
- The Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT).
- The Associate of Science in Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), upon the recommendation of the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC-ST/SA).
NOTICE: Sullivan University teaches to the license and certification standards of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. If you plan to work in any state other than Kentucky, it is your responsibility to verify that state's permit, license, or certification requirements.