Certificate Program Vs Bachelor Degree Program

[NYBKLYNChef]

Which program would be most beneficial, a Certificate program, Associates program, or a Bachelor degree program to make myself most marketable?

[hastypastry]

I think that would depend on what you want to do and where you want to go. From what I see from job postings and going on interviews...most places like to see that you have at least a 2 year culinary degree. From what I read in my ACF magazine, they are encouraging everyone to complete a 4 year bachelors degree. Me, I graduate this year with an assoc. degree in culinary arts from a com. college. I am going to attend a "culinary school" for pastry and baking later this year. Then, maybe I will complete a bachelors degree in rest. management. I am thinking that since I am working while attending school, I am getting real work experience and a college education that will open more doors to management for me. But, again, you have to ask yourself where you want to be eventually. Alot of chefs I know were in the business before school, but they felt that not having a culinary education kept them from being advancing, that they felt a "glass ceiling". Good luck with whatever you decide on doing.

Hasty

[frydaddy]

well in my opinion, obviously the Bachelors looks best, because it requires more effort and more knowlege, the Associates shows that you have a degree in your field, and the certificate shows that you have knowledge in your field. So the most beneficial for marketing yourself would be the Bachelor Degree. However, This does not guarantee you will advance any faster. You may not need this program, because everyone's situation is different.

I have a friend who graduated with a B.S. in culinary arts and wishes he would have only taken the two year program because it didnt help him get to where he is any quicker.

I have another friend who graduated a certificate program and got an Exec Chef job straight out of school.(lucky bastard)

So it really depends on alot, but id recommend at least the Associates Degree.(Usually only a few months longer than a certificate and holds more weight)

[jonas]

It depends, if you are an apprentice then a certificate is all you need and completing your apprenticeship has been valued at extremely high.

So that kind of certificate would be better than more schooling... but it's up to you. If you can't find a place to apprentice at, then more years the better I'd say. Just remember working more in the field means you have more actual working experience, which is much better than book smarts. You can tell me every kind of steak and what they look like, but if you can't cook me one to 130F, then what good is the knowledge?