This site is best viewed in Firefox, Chrome, Safari, or EdgeX

Earn an Associate degree in Culinary Arts

NECC’s Associate Degree in Culinary Arts combines a mix of courses with hands-on cooking training and exposure to business knowledge, preparing you for employment in the food service industry beyond entry-level positions. You’ll also have the option of transferring credits towards a bachelor’s degree in a Culinary Arts-related field, saving you thousands of dollars on your education!

How to get started on a career in Culinary Arts

Get more details about how to apply for this program.

Program Costs

Program Costs

View tuition and fee information for this program.
Program Info

Program Info

View the semester-by-semester pathway for this degree.
Faculty

Program Coordinator

Bryan Philbrook, Program Coordinator

Email: bphilbrook@necc.mass.edu
Phone: 978-241-4781

Additional Program Information

Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of culinary arts, where you’ll get to learn about the practice and art of cooking through theory, technique, palate training, speed, and teamwork. Furthermore, you’ll gain real-world experience in food service management and entrepreneurship, proving that following your culinary dreams can lead to something extraordinary!

Student Learning Outcomes
  • Develop critical thinking skills to address issues in the culinary arts industry.
  • Identify, evaluate and utilize effective verbal, nonverbal and written communication skills.
  • Explain/Describe/the proper use and maintenance of professional-grade cooking and baking equipment and small-wares.
  • Explain terms and/or Define terms associated with culinary arts including sanitation, baking, cooking, restaurant management and customer relation expressions and terms.
  • Demonstrate competency of all sanitation procedures necessary in the industry.
  • Attain Servsafe Sanitation Certification.
  • Demonstrate skill needed to serve as manager or chef, through practical experience (Experiential Learning) in The Heights functioning restaurant and banquet facilities.
  • Apply ethical and professional principles in decision making situations.
  • Recognize the importance of proper uniforms and impeccable personal hygiene as pertains to sanitation and professionalism.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of diversity and multiculturalism in both human relationships and menu development.
  • Master business practices as pertains to culinary arts industry.
  • Engage with the industry thru experiential learning in co-operative placements where students are able to demonstrate classroom knowledge.

Credit for Prior Learning or Work Experience

With NECC’s Credit for Prior Learning, you can move through the program at a faster pace and graduate sooner! These credits are covered free-of-charge for eligible Massachusetts learners.

Support for Every Student

NECC offers a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising, to help students thrive academically. Want to transfer to NECC? Our advisors are happy to assist you.

Accommodations at NECC

As an ADA-compliant institution, NECC is committed to serving the needs of students, faculty, staff, and visitors with disabilities, including those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. We partner with multiple entities are dedicated to ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all members of the NECC community.

Do you have a documented disability? Are you Deaf or Hard of Hearing? If so, the Center for Accessibility Resources & Services (CARS) can connect you to the services you need to thrive at NECC.

Free Community College

No tuition. No fees. And an allowance for books and supplies for eligible students.

Learn More


Print View