Culinary Arts

Program Statement

The Culinary Arts program provides students with the opportunity to develop the practical skills and the theoretical knowledge needed to work in the food service/hospitality fields in a variety of entry level and advanced positions in food preparation or the front of the house.

Program Information

This program offers students the opportunity to develop strong communications, organizational, and critical thinking skills, as well as practical preparation for entry into the growing food service industry.

• Applicants must attend a New Student Information Session
• Prior to being considered for admission, students must complete the College Placement Exams (or be exempt).
• All courses are taught by experienced chef instructors and/or food service industry professionals.
• Students must be available to work at required Culinary Arts functions and events

Successful completion of this program requires participants to be able to demonstrate practical cooking skills required to work successfully in a professional kitchen.

High School Articulation Credit

Students graduating from area high schools and vocational/technical centers who participate in the College Tech-Prep program, maintain a grade of “B” or better and have the recommendation of their Culinary Arts instructor can obtain credit for certain introductory level culinary courses depending upon the articulation agreements between their school and Bristol Community College. 

Additional Costs

Students are responsible for the costs of their uniforms, kitchen and bakeshop tools, and texts.

Essential Functions

• Standing for long periods of time (4 to 10 hours) during a normally protracted class and work day.
• Working in a kitchen environment where the temperature can exceed ambient temperature.
• Lifting and moving heavy weight (such as wait-trays, small equipment, and institutional size supplies - 25-50 lbs.)
• Sufficient communication skills to allow for successful interaction between the students and the public.
• Sufficient mobility and motor coordination to complete assigned tasks in the kitchen and dining room in a safe, efficient manner according to acceptable industry standards.
• Ability to learn and apply the body of knowledge necessary to meet the program curriculum and successfully enter the food service profession.

After Bristol

Graduates can work in the kitchens, dining rooms, or bakeshops of a wide variety of establishments—from small local restaurants to large international organizations. An established transfer articulation agreement with Johnson & Wales University provides a streamlined pathway for students to pursue a four-year degree in Culinary Arts, Food & Beverage Industry Management, and Food & Beverage Industry Entrepreneurship.