Preparation is key to entering any discipline and establishing oneself as a respected professional. In Missouri, anyone who aspires to become a successful chef must also dedicate the same amount of time needed to familiarize themselves with the various steps involved in the process.
These steps range from the requirements needed to secure admission into a program to the types of programs to consider, as well as the possible awards and focus areas. Through the guide on this page, we introduce candidates to all of these considerations and ensure that they are as well-prepared as possible.
We also provide answers to some frequently asked questions, including prospective annual average salaries and career outlooks.
How to Become a Chef in Missouri
Candidates in Missouri can start a successful chef career by following the guidelines below.
Meeting the Fundamental Requirements
The fundamental requirements to become a chef in Missouri can vary depending on the specific employer and chosen institution. For instance, some employers and training programs may require a range of admission criteria, such as a high school diploma or GED equivalent, and/or a minimum age of 18.
Earning an Associate Degree or Certificate
In Missouri, the majority of chefs opt to earn an associate’s degree or a certificate to launch their careers, as it can provide them with a lifelong advantage. The state offers excellent training programs that are accredited by the American Culinary Federation, indicating a high standard of education.
These programs not only allow graduates to pursue certification immediately but also offer many career services and advice for rapid advancement.
Developing Real-World Confidence
Fresh chefs will only be confident enough to perform their duties at a high level if they have already had the opportunity to practice in a work environment, even before securing full-time employment.
For this, participants may take advantage of campus-based culinary establishments, internships, apprenticeships, and prep cooking opportunities.
Securing Employment & Facilitating Career Growth
After foundational training, becoming employed as a chef in Missouri is pretty straightforward. Specialization can be crucial for career focus and opportunities.
Professionals in the field may also join specific organizations and become certified for career growth.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Although chefs don’t need certification to practice legally in the state of Missouri, certification is indispensable for establishing a good reputation, securing job placement, and potentially advancing to a higher position.
The American Culinary Federation’s Certified Culinarian credential is a popular choice for chefs in Missouri who wish to pursue certification immediately after completing an accredited culinary program. The Federation also holds other top-rated credentials, including the Certified Fundamental Cook, Certified Pastry Culinarian, and Certified Executive Chef designations.
As for licensing, the only license that a chef needs to practice professionally in Missouri is a food handler’s license.
Top Culinary Arts Schools in Missouri
These are some of the top training destinations for aspiring chefs in the state of Missouri.
St. Louis Community College
St. Louis, MO Campus + Online
St. Louis Community College offers a 65-credit-hour culinary arts program that blends the art and science of food preparation with key skills in safety, sanitation, professionalism, and culinary finance.
Tuition
$122 - $243 per CreditContact
(314) 539-5465
epiazza@stlcc.edu
The College of the Ozarks
Point Lookout, MO Campus Only
The College of the Ozarks provides a 4-year bachelor's degree in culinary arts, equipping graduates with top-tier credibility and expertise in food preparation, seasoning, regional and international cuisines, soups, and appetizers.
Tuition
FreeContact
(800) 222-0525
mkoogler@cofo.edu
St. Charles Community College
Cottleville, MO Campus Only
St. Charles Community College's culinary arts program, offered through the School of Health, Human Services, and Natural Resources, combines classroom instruction with hands-on training in the kitchen and real-world placement opportunities.
Tuition
$213 - $340 per CreditContact
(636) 922-8722
nshuman@stchas.edu
Explore culinary arts schools in Missouri by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary of a chef in Missouri is approximately $55,040 for those in the median category. The figure can climb as high as $86,159 for those in the top 10% and also regress to around $35,161 for those in the bottom 10%.
Professionals in the city can enhance their reputation, educational background, certifications, networking, and location to influence their yearly earnings. As they gain more experience, chefs in Missouri also naturally improve their yearly earnings.
The most favorable places to work for high salaries in the state are Clayton, with an annual average salary of $62,787; St. Louis, with an annual average salary of $61,739; and Jefferson City, with an annual average salary of $58,361.
Chefs in Kansas City make around $55,186.
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