Your next step in the kitchen
Understand the costs. Compare the training. Make a choice that fits your life.
Explore public colleges, a culinary college, and career diploma programs. This is a starting collection, not a national ranking.
Public community college
Overland Park, Kansas
Chef Apprenticeship, Associate of Applied Science
2½ years · 67 credits
Fall 2026 tuition + required fees. Residency changes the rate.
Costs, program & sourcesPublic community college
Raleigh, North Carolina
Culinary Arts, Associate in Applied Science
2 years / 6 semesters · 72 credits
Fall 2026 tuition only. Required fees and supplies are additional.
Costs, program & sourcesPrivate culinary college
Hyde Park, New York
Associate in Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts
Less than 2 years · 66 credits
2026–27, 12–18 credits. Meals, fees and housing change the total.
Costs, program & sourcesPrivate career training
New York City, New York
Career Culinary Arts diploma
8, 11 or 12 months, depending on schedule
Starts after Sept. 1, 2026. Schedule and payment method matter.
Costs, program & sourcesPrivate culinary training
Austin, Texas
Diploma in Culinary Arts
30 academic weeks · 44 quarter credits
Effective Feb. 17, 2026. Uniform, toolkit, books and other fees differ.
Costs, program & sourcesRead the price unit. Per-credit, per-semester and program prices cover different things. Each profile explains what is included. Use the cost calculator to build a full estimate.
Compare the training, the total cost and realistic career expectations before choosing culinary school.
Read the guideA practical guide to culinary certificates, diplomas, degrees and online cooking courses.
Read the guideA decision checklist for military cooks considering civilian kitchen work, additional training and education benefits.
Read the guideBring the questions that matter
Keep tuition, equipment, schedules and externships together as you research your shortlist.