A potato pops into your head when thinking of food that Idaho is known for. But the state has a variety of culinary schools to choose from---and they don't specialize in potato dishes. You'll get training to be a chef or manager, and could earn a variety of degrees based on your preference. In 2009, it was projected that Idaho restaurants would do $1.8 billion in sales, according to the National Restaurant Association. Without trained chefs or trained managers, none of that would be possible.
Brigham Young University--Idaho
The university's Department of Home and Family offers a culinary arts program as a minor. You'll need 24 credit hours in classes that offer a mix of theory and practical experiences. Students learn about food of different cultures, food preparation, food identification, food safety, food service equipment, nutrition, professionalism, service skills and supervisory skills.
Brigham Young University--Idaho
525 South Center St.
Rexburg, ID 83460
(208) 496-2200
byui.edu
College of Southern Idaho
Students could earn an associate of applied science degree in the school's culinary arts program. The classes last for four semesters; an internship during the summer between the first and second year is required. You'll learn about food and beverage controls, fry-line cooking, purchasing, sandwich prep, sanitation, sauces and service. A person working in the food service industry needs more than just cooking skills, and the College of Southern Idaho includes classes in communication, computer applications, leadership, math and professional development skills. As a bonus, students get experience in the Desert Cafeteria restaurant on the campus.
College of Southern Idaho
315 Falls Ave
Twin Falls, ID 83303
(208) 733-9554
business.csi.edu
College of Western Idaho
The college offers a choice of degrees in its culinary arts program. A student could get an advanced technical certificate (lasting 16 months), an associate of applied science degree (about two years) or a technical certificate (about one year). The classes include sanitation, safety and health, baking and introductory hot foods. An internship is required for the associate of applied science degree.
College of Western Idaho
6056 Birch Lane
Nampa, ID 83687
(208) 562-3500
cwidaho.cc
Idaho State University
A student has five options in his culinary training to choose from. He could enter the 11-month certificate in culinary arts technology program that teaches the basics of food production and service. After gaining the certificate, he could build on the techniques learned in the certificate program by going for an associate of applied science degree in culinary arts. A third option is gaining more business skills by finishing an associate degree in business technology through the marketing and management occupations program. This would help people looking to become restaurant managers or owners. A fourth option is a nine-month certificate in culinary management. It's geared for people already in the field who are hoping to improve their business and managerial skills. A fifth option is an associate degree in restaurant management. It teaches students manage the food preparation, the kitchen and kitchen staff areas, as well as all aspects of customer service and dining room management. Contact the school to set up a meeting with an adviser to determine the best program for your goals.
Idaho State University
921 South 8th Ave.
Stop 8380
Pocatello, ID 83209-8380
(208) 282-2622
isu.edu
Tags: culinary arts, applied science, applied science degree, associate applied, associate applied science, science degree, arts program