Oregon Culinary Institute

Oregon Culinary Institute Highlights

• Majority of learning spent in kitchen labs
• School reports significantly lower tuition versus similar schools
• Diploma can be earned in just 34 weeks
• Associate degree program can be completed in 64 weeks
• Training provided at on-campus restaurant
• Externships offer valuable experience and networking opportunities
• Accreditation provided by the Accrediting Council of Independent Colleges and Schools

About Oregon Culinary Institute

Oregon Culinary Institute is owned by the Pioneer Pacific College, which is a provider of career education. The Oregon Culinary Institute emphasizes cooking techniques and hands-on culinary training. The institute's consumer education program offers recreational courses. According to the institute, the school was established on the idea that culinary arts education should be complete, practical and affordable. The school also includes a fine-dining restaurant.

According to the institute, its kitchens simulate the typical facilities and equipment located in fine restaurants and other food service settings. The school's computer lab provides students the opportunity to learn about nutritional analysis, costing, purchasing and a variety of business essentials. Students also have the opportunity to research various projects.

Oregon Culinary Institute Academic Programs

Programs of study include:

• Culinary Arts Diploma – The program systematically takes students through the essential aspects of working in a commercial kitchen. The curriculum includes substantial amounts of hands-on learning. Training is provided in subjects such as basic, intermediate and advanced cuisine and the fundamentals of cooking. A culinary externship is also part of the program.
• Culinary Arts Associate Degree – Provides a solid foundation in the culinary arts. Includes the training provided in the diploma program plus general education classes and courses such as fundamentals of accounting; business and management; human resources management; marketing and finance; college and career success and professional development. The curriculum also includes an externship.
• Baking and Pastry Certificate – Prepares students for entry-level jobs in various food service settings. The curriculum combines lectures, demonstrations and training in kitchen labs. Training is provided in basic and advanced baking and basic, intermediate and advanced pastry arts. Students also acquire experience producing breads and desserts at the school's restaurant.

Learning at Oregon Culinary Institute

• The 34 week diploma program includes 24 weeks in kitchens and classrooms and 360 hours in an externship
• Associate degree program can be completed in 64 weeks
• The four-term programs are initiated every eight weeks

Faculty

The programs are taught by experienced chef instructors. The teachers emphasize hands-on learning in the programs.

Student Life

Some of the students are preparing for employment in the culinary industry and some are training to operate their own restaurant. The Oregon Culinary Institute representatives are available to assist students in locating housing and finding employment.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Applicants are encouraged to take a tour of the campus. Candidates are required to have a high school diploma or a GED certificate. Applicants are required to take the ACT Career Programs Assignment test, unless they have proof of completing at least one academic year in post-secondary education with at least a 2.5 GPA.

The cost of books, a cutlery set and uniforms is included in the total cost which allows students to use financial aid for these expenses. In addition, a financial aid officer is available to help students find financial assistance.