A great culinary arts program in Little Rock, Arkansas, should provide candidates with the base level of education they will need to secure employment and continue to grow in the profession. The best programs should also have enough accreditation to guarantee certification and other career opportunities.
In the guide on this page, we introduce students to the best training programs prospective chefs can attend in Little Rock to enjoy all of these benefits. We also break down what each entry has to offer and why it is so well-regarded.
Before we proceed with the list, though, the following section examines the general requirements for launching a culinary arts career in Little Rock.
How to Become a Chef in Little Rock
The basic requirements to become a chef in Little Rock are transferable skills, a high school diploma or GED equivalent, and sometimes a minimum age of 18. Those who meet the requirements can secure admission into a training program, ideally one accredited by the American Culinary Federation.
After earning a certificate or an associate degree in a training program, candidates may consider certification from the ACF. Certified professionals enjoy more credibility, but becoming certified is not compulsory by law.
Chefs in Little Rock need a food handler’s license for safety purposes. They must also acquire relevant permits and licenses whenever they start their businesses.
Top Culinary Arts Schools in Little Rock, Arkansas
Below are some high-quality training programs for future culinary artists in Little Rock to consider.
Pulaski Technical College
North Little Rock, AR Campus Only
University of Arkansas—Pulaski Technical College is an excellent institution with several amazing training programs and an excellent alumni network. The school happens to have an excellent culinary arts division with several hands-on programs that help candidates master the preparation of an array of dishes, including bread, desserts, appetizers, soups, charcuterie, and pastries.
Tuition
$10,350 - $18,900 per ProgramContact
(501) 812-2200
mthompson@uaptc.edu
Northwest Arkansas Community College
Bentonville, AR Campus Only
Northwest Arkansas Community College is another amazing institution in the state. It has respectable programs and a history of graduate success. The school offers a culinary arts training program that operates at higher educational standards.
Tuition
$91 - $221 per CreditContact
(479) 631-8600
brightwater@nwacc.edu
Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, AR Campus Only
Arkansas Tech University has a culinary arts training program implemented in partnership with the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation and the Arkansas Hospitality Association. The programs incorporate hands-on learning and field trips to complement classroom studies.
Tuition
$250 - $500 per CreditContact
(479) 968-0389
chilton@atu.edu
Ozarka College
Melbourne, AR Campus Only
Ozarka College boasts an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts program that covers communications, food production, baking, and hospitality. The program also includes provisions for an internship and a cafe practicum.
Tuition
$124 - $224 per CreditContact
(870) 368-2300
Brioney.Edwards@ozarka.edu
Arkansas State University - Newport
Jonesboro, AR Campus Only
Lastly, anyone interested in launching a successful chef career in Arkansas can do so by attending the culinary arts program offered by Arkansas State University—Newport. The school tends to stand out through comprehensive practical training, and the culinary arts program is no different.
Tuition
$115 - $175 per CreditContact
(870) 680-8733
lisa_godsey@asun.edu
Explore neighboring states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: