What is the Best School for Pastry Chefs: Do I Need Formal Education?

Do you love to concoct new cookie recipes, decorate delicious cakes, and bake mouthwatering pies? You might be right to become a pastry chef. But before you dive in, there's questions. You might wonder should you go to school or learn on the job? How would you even pick a culinary school, if you wanted to pursue education? Here's a look at some answers which could help you make up your mind!

Why Pastry Chefs Begin Their Careers with a Degree

It's common for people to begin a career in the pastry arts with little to no experience or training. However, a growing number of applicants are choosing to delay their search until they've completed a training program for some important reasons.

• On-the-job training limits future opportunities. If you love baking but haven't quite formulated an ultimate goal yet, a training program is your best option. During the instruction, you'll be exposed to a variety of techniques and styles. Use your time to gather the information you can use to build the ideal career path.
• A lack of education limits entry-level opportunities. Without some formal training or verifiable experience, getting your first bakery job can be tough. With a degree, job seekers have a larger field of options. Sometimes their education can earn them higher starting wages as well.
• The best positions are highly competitive. When a premium position opens up, a degree gives the applicant an advantage over other seekers. This is a strategic move for those who are goal-oriented and driven for success.

Starting your pastry chef career with a solid knowledge foundation gives you more options and control over your path.

Benefits of a Formal Education

There are a number of benefits to choosing a degree program to start your kitchen career.

• Access to better openings. Many local businesses work with cooking schools to fill their employment needs. It's possible to secure a job before you've even graduated.
• You get a commercial kitchen ready. Cooking at home is not the same as living up to the demands of a working kitchen. Your training ensures that you're ready to take on the rigors of commercial kitchens.
• Higher probability of promotion. For those who are working to reach the highest rungs of career success, a degree makes it more possible that you'll be accepted for prime promotions.

Getting a degree is a smart move that pays off for the duration of your career.

Signs of a Superior Pastry School

Pastry school students have many options. Look for these clues to ensure you pick a program that will fully prepare you for the future.

• What classes are included in the program? For the best chances of success, your program should include instruction in basic baking techniques, design, and recipe and menu building. Nutrition and management classes should also be a part of your potential program.
• How is the information presented? You can learn a lot from online classes and reading assignments. However, programs that focus heavily on hands-on skills get the best results.
• Does the scheduling fit with my needs? Working adults can't take weeks away from reality. Choose a school that offers flexible schedules so you can still live while learning.
• Will the school help me find a job when I graduate? A networking center in your school should provide leads and information that help you find a job that fits your new skills.
• Is there academic help available if I need it? When times get tough, your school should be able to help you find tutoring to get things back on track. Another option is an active student study group that you can join for friendship, academic support, and future networking opportunities.

Are You Ready to Learn Baking and Pastry?

If you are interested in working as a pastry chef and are interested in earning an Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts, consider ECPI University's Culinary Institute of Virginia. For more information, connect with a friendly admissions advisor today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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Gainful Employment Information – Baking & Pastry Arts – Associate's

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