Culinary Arts Schools in Idaho

It is usually possible to start a successful culinary arts career in Idaho without completing a four-year college program. However, candidates still have to make some decisions regarding the specific institution from which they want to receive a comprehensive education and the type of award with which they hope to graduate.

The guide below covers all of the educational considerations that individuals need to make to become successful chefs in Idaho. It also includes other important resources, such as certification and business requirements.

Readers will find out which programs are referred to as the best in the state and what other options they may have for career growth.

The guide then wraps up with a detailed overview of the annual average salary projections for chefs in Idaho and the factors that influence these numbers.

How to Become a Chef in Idaho

These are the most important steps needed to become a successful chef in Idaho.

High School Education

High school education is usually a requirement for admission into top culinary arts programs. Employers also tend to mention it when working with fresh chefs in the area.

Applicants who do not have a high school diploma can always use a GED equivalent.

Post-secondary Education

Institutions that offer culinary arts programs often do so to prepare candidates for entry-level employment. It is common for a singular institution to offer several pathways in culinary arts, including a general culinary arts program, a baking and pastry arts program, culinary management programs, and hospitality programs.

Additionally, institutions may offer several awards for each program, including short-term certificates, technical certificates, and associate of applied science degrees.

In one of the upcoming sections, we analyze the best programs for candidates in Idaho to consider.

Career Growth

Specialization can be quite valuable for career growth as a culinary arts professional. Certification and continuing education are also very helpful. We explore this particular topic in more detail below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a travel agent in Idaho

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Chefs in Idaho are not expected to receive a state license to secure admission in the culinary arts discipline. However, professionals who will be handling food, regardless of their designations, are expected to have a food handler’s license.

Individuals starting a business will also have to acquire relevant permits, which may vary depending on their business structure. For instance, a catering permit is different from a food truck permit.

As for certification, this is not compulsory according to the laws but can be very valuable when it comes to career opportunities. They facilitate networking, continuing education, and credibility among employers and peers.

The American Culinary Federation is responsible for accrediting training programs, but it also offers several highly rated credentials that individuals should consider for all of these benefits.

Top Culinary Arts Schools in Idaho

Residents of Idaho can consider any of the top-class programs below for their comprehensive culinary arts education.

Explore culinary arts schools in Idaho by city:

• Culinary arts schools in Boise

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary for chefs in Idaho can be around $43,885 for those who are just starting their careers and are among the bottom 10%. Even better, this figure can get as large as $77,557 or more for those who are among the top 10%.

However, in determining the annual average salary for chefs in Idaho, it is advisable to focus on the median earning figure. Those who fall into this category will typically end the year with an average salary of $58,340.

State professionals can improve their yearly earnings by improving their experience, credentials, educational background, and business approach. They can also choose to focus on a specific location.

Data shows that McCall is the highest-paying destination for chefs in Idaho, with an annual average salary of $67,454. Boise is second with an annual average salary of $63,351, while Coeur d’Alene follows with an annual average salary of $62,395.

Chefs in Moscow, ID, manage an annual average salary of $58,336.