Culinary Arts Schools in Little Rock

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.

#Arkansas

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.

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Tuition
$10,350 - $18,900 per Program
Contact
  • (501) 812-2200

  • mthompson@uaptc.edu

#Arkansas

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.

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Tuition
$91 - $221 per Credit
Contact
  • (479) 631-8600

  • brightwater@nwacc.edu

#Arkansas

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.

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Tuition
$250 - $500 per Credit
Contact
  • (479) 968-0389

  • chilton@atu.edu

#Arkansas

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.

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Tuition
$124 - $224 per Credit
Contact
  • (870) 368-2300

  • Brioney.Edwards@ozarka.edu

#Arkansas

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.

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Tuition
$115 - $175 per Credit
Contact
  • (870) 680-8733

  • lisa_godsey@asun.edu

Explore neighboring states for education and training:

Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: