Culinary Arts Schools in Portland, Maine

Several factors make food appealing to the senses, including presentation, flavor, texture, and aroma.

Anyone who wants to become a successful chef in Portland, Maine, must pay attention to all of these areas of culinary arts.

Naturally, the most common approach is to attend an accredited training program and ultimately develop well-rounded expertise in all these areas, enabling one to function effectively in a professional capacity. Choosing the right training program can also help candidates rapidly advance and improve their yearly returns.

Portland residents will be pleased to know that we have carefully curated some of the top training programs below, which can help them achieve all of these objectives.

How to Become a Chef in Portland

Residents of Portland and elsewhere in the country don’t have to worry about state licensure on their journey to becoming successful chefs. They need to worry about becoming properly trained and having enough practical experience to set themselves apart.

This is why completing a training program and additional training “on the job” is usually needed to enter the profession. After receiving proper education, individuals who wish to start their restaurants or catering outfits will need to register their businesses in the same manner as anyone incorporating a legal entity in the state.

As for certification, the American Culinary Federation offers impressive credentials that, although not mandatory, are highly valued.

Top Culinary Arts Schools in Portland, Maine

Prospective chefs in Portland may receive a sound education from any of the programs below.

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Southern Maine Community College

South Portland, ME Campus Only

Southern Maine Community College has a Culinary Arts associate degree program that individuals across the state can enroll in for a comprehensive education. The program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation and is overseen by highly competent instructors.

Tuition

$96 - $192 per Credit

Contact

(207) 741-5746
mlasalle@mainecc.edu

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Central Maine Community College

Auburn, ME Campus Only

Central Maine Community College is home to a culinary arts program that prepares students for successful careers in several areas of the food service industry. The programs are designed to help students develop skills in catering, food service management, and culinary arts.

Tuition

$96 - $192 per Credit

Contact

(207) 755-5273
cmccadmissions@mainecc.edu

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Kennebec Valley Community College

Auburn, ME Campus Only

Kennebec Valley Community College in Fairfield is another destination to consider for a comprehensive culinary arts program, whether you are a student anywhere in the state of Maine. The school offers a culinary arts associate of applied science degree program with a farm-to-table focus and instruction in food purchasing, sanitation, menu planning, and nutrition.

Tuition

$96 - $192 per Credit

Contact

(207) 453-3681
senjaian@kvcc.me.edu

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Eastern Maine Community College

Bangor, ME Campus Only

At Eastern Maine Community College, residents of Portland and other parts of Maine can enroll in a culinary arts training program that covers international and American regional cuisines.

Tuition

$96 - $192 per Credit

Contact

(207) 974-4680
nscott@mainecc.edu

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University of Maine

Orono, ME Campus Only

Lastly, the University of Maine also claims to be among the very best institutions to study as a prospective culinary artist in Maine. However, students who will be receiving their training here must commit to the long-term education offered by this school of food and agriculture.