Why This Program
Thrive in the food industry as a chef, baker, restaurant manager, and more with Northampton Community College’s Culinary Arts Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree or Specialized Diploma. You’ll learn from professional chefs in hands-on kitchen settings and gain skills in restaurant operations.
NCC’s affordable culinary arts program provides the best value among Pennsylvania’s community colleges: we offer high program quality paired with low tuition costs and financial aid opportunities. This two-year program on our Bethlehem campus features distinctive culinary events, banquet-style cooking and plating, and special training with an industry-expert Chef in Residence. Prepare to excel in the food service industry as soon as you graduate!
What You'll Learn
NCC’s empowering culinary school in Pennsylvania is entirely career-oriented: you’ll practice your cooking skills in our state-of-the-art commercial kitchen and NCC’s public restaurant, the Hampton Winds. Our competitive Chef in Residence program gives you access to top-tier chefs from around the world, meaning you’ll gain a unique experience that sets you apart in the dynamic culinary industry.
The culinary arts degree and specialized diploma equip you with entry-level skills and advanced techniques from both classical and modern kitchens. Practice tableside cooking, plate presentation, global cuisines, and safety procedures for food preparation and reducing foodborne illness. NCC graduates succeed in a variety of food service roles preparing savory plates, sweet creations, and pleasurable dining experiences.
Program Details
Semesters: 5
Credits: 71
College Catalog: View Curriculum
Program Map: Download PDF
Locations: BethlehemProgram Overview:
Learn all the formal classical methods of preparing food, then put that training into practice with nearly 1,000 hours of hands-on experience. Once you’ve mastered your culinary training, complete additional core courses in topics like communication and science to earn your Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts.
Semesters: 3
Credits: 47
College Catalog: View Curriculum
Program Map: Download PDF
Locations: BethlehemProgram Overview:
Launch your career or build on your existing degree with skills in food preparation and restaurant operations. You’ll apply your learning in hands-on practice, meaning you’ll stand out to future employers and expand your opportunities in just 3 semesters. Credits from this program can be transferred to the A.A.S. degree if you choose to advance your credential in the future!
Semesters: 4
Credits: 37
College Catalog: View Curriculum
Program Map: Download PDF
Locations: BethlehemProgram Overview:
Learn professional culinary techniques along with business strategies to be prepared to take your business to the next level. By attaining an education in a field that encompasses both culinary skills and entrepreneurial skills, you will be on track to start and grow your own small businesses. Whether you want to operate your own catering business, run a mobile food truck or come to be a social media chef or food blogger, this specialized diploma provides you with the much needed training to become a culinary arts entrepreneur.
