Culinary Schools in Kentucky

Fried chicken is one culinary achievement that the state of Kentucky is well known for but only few are aware that Louisville, Bowling Green and Lexington are some of America’s culinary gems. This is good news not only for foodies but culinary students as well. While most wouldn’t consider the state the ideal place to study, there are many great culinary schools in Kentucky that you can attend where you can learn to become a chef, pastry chef, restaurant manager, caterer, kitchen supervisor, menu planner, consultant and other occupations in the food and service industry.

Kentucky culinary schools boast excellent, world-class curriculums. Students can look forward to learning all about:

• Hospitality management
• Restaurant operations, procedures and management
• Beverage management
• Catering
• Baking principles
• Diet and nutrition
• Culinary arts
• Culinary management
• Kitchen studies
• Equipment use and care
• Food safety and sanitation
• Food cost control

You should consider your choice of school carefully. Different institutions focus on different aspects of training and some take longer than others. If you need accelerated practical training in order to get an entry-level job as soon as possible, it would be best to apply to technical and community colleges. If, on the other hand, you need a comprehensive qualification with as much theory as practical know-how, Kentucky culinary schools that offer associate and bachelor degrees are best. Universities are also great places for students who would like to advance their studies by joining an Honours or Masters Program. Culinary institutes are regarded as the best option because of their specialised and intensive programs, where students are usually given special attention by tutors and instructors. Institutes also have a reputation of having up-to-date training kitchens and equipments.

At the end of the day, your selection is determined by your career needs. Wherever you decide to receive your training, just make sure courses are accredited by the American Culinary Federation Accrediting Commission.

Some of the best accredited Culinary Schools in Kentucky are:

• Sullivan University is regarded as the National Centre for Hospitality Studies. It is recognised for its outstanding diplomas, certificates and degrees in baking, beverage management and working as a personal chef
• Ashland community and technical college offer exceptional courses in the culinary arts, food and beverage management. Since this is a technical college, you can expect a lot of hands-on work in student-run restaurants and local hospitality institutions
• Elizabethtown community and technical college excels in culinary management and restaurant administration

Other recommended Culinary Schools in Kentucky are:

• Bowling Green Technical College
• Sullivan University
• National college in Lexington
• West Kentucky Community and Technical College

Education and training doesn’t end in the classroom. Learn about local flavours and network with celebrity chefs at festivals like the Annual World Chicken festival, Anderson County Burgoo fest and Kentucky Bourbon festivals. Join industry associations like the American Culinary Federation, Women’s Chefs and Restaurateurs and the Research Chefs Association to receive job updates, industry news and career support.