Keiser University - Center For Culinary Arts

Highlights

• Training in a wide variety of American and international cuisine
• Internships at nearby restaurants and other facilities
• Participates in American Culinary Federation sanctioned competitions
• Assists student in finding nearby housing
• Degrees accredited by the American Culinary Federation

About the School

The Center for Culinary Arts is a branch of Keiser University. The center was established in 1989. All the campuses offer an Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts. Programs may vary based on the campus.

The two-year programs provide practical training regarding kitchen management techniques, food handling/preparation and front of the house procedures. The programs provide instructions for American, European, South American and Classical French Cuisine.

Academic Programs

Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts - Includes laboratory work, academic studies and hands-on experience. American regional cuisine and international cuisine are taught. The school strives to provide students with a high level of knowledge in food service production, nutrition, food service sanitation, dining room management, storeroom operations and cooking techniques.

Upon completion of the academic portion of the program, students are required to work 560 hours during an internship at a nearby restaurant or other appropriate facility.

Associate of Science degree in Baking and Pastry Arts - Utilizes a hands-on approach to teaching. During the program, students learn to use various types of equipment and tools while preparing items such as candies, cakes, centerpieces, breads and a variety of pastries. Students are also trained in nutrition, supervisory techniques and food service sanitation.

The Baking and Pastry Arts program's objective is to provide students the necessary skills to find employment as entry-level bakers. In order to graduate, students are required to produce an assessment project in guest services. The project includes a bushiness plan for a retail bakery business. Students must also participate in an internship at a bakery shop.

Learning Options

• The internship program prepares students for entry-level jobs in the food services industry.
• Students must complete 84 credit hours in order to acquire a degree.
• The programs include 60 major course credit hours and 24 credit hours in general education.
• The school offers three semesters per year.
• Day and night classes are available.

Student Notes

The university provides students with placement services, including help with writing resumes and finding job opportunities. Admission counselors provide tours of the facilities. The school notes that facilities at all campuses are kept modern and up-to-date, so that students will be able to work with the latest technology in use in commercial kitchens.

Faculty Notes

Qualified, experienced instructors use a hands-on approach to prepare students for employment in restaurants, catering companies, cruise ships, hotels and other businesses.

Admissions, Loans, Grants and Scholarships

A high school diploma or a GED credential is required for admission. An entrance exam must be taken if test results are not available from a SAT or ACT exam. The financial aid staff offers students assistance to locate grants and to apply for Federal loans. Florida Post-secondary Student Assistance Grants and Need Based Scholarships are available. Also, part-time employment, based on financial need, is provided through the Federal College Work Study program.