Charlotte, North Carolina, is a wonderful destination for anybody who wants to become a successful culinary artist. This is not only because there are various world-class restaurants in and around the city but also because amazing training programs offer robust curricula for rapid skills development.
Although narrowing down the best options can be challenging, the list below will ensure readers do not have to worry. We have carefully curated only the most highly rated programs and analyzed their offerings.
Before we begin, below is a brief analysis of what it takes to become a successful culinary artist in Charlotte, North Carolina.
How to Become a Chef in Charlotte
For safety purposes, all chefs and culinary artists in Charlotte are expected to have a food handler license. However, they must complete a training program before obtaining this license.
It is possible to receive training as a future chef in the real world under the supervision of licensed chefs. However, the majority of candidates usually opt to complete an academic program first.
They may then consolidate their academic knowledge with practical training abroad. Pursuing certification as a chef is also common in Charlotte, even though this is not compulsory by law.
The American Culinary Federation is the major authority when it comes to professional credentials for professionals in this field across the country.
Top Culinary Arts Schools in Charlotte, North Carolina
Below are some amazing culinary arts training programs for interested individuals in Charlotte to consider.
Central Piedmont Community College
Charlotte, NC Campus + Online
Central Piedmont Community College's Culinary Arts programs perfectly combine theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Participants in this program will take courses in sanitation and safety, production skills, cost control and purchasing, culinary fundamentals, and human resource management.
Tuition
$76 - $268 per CreditContact
(704) 330-6387
beth.thompsonpeace@cpcc.edu
Guilford Technical Community College
Jamestown, NC Campus Only
Guilford Technical Community College offers a Culinary Arts program overseen by an award-winning faculty. The American Culinary Federation Educational Institute accredits the program at an exemplary level.
Tuition
$76 - $268 per CreditContact
(336) 334-4822 Ext: 50114
info@gtcc.edu
Wake Tech
Raleigh, NC Campus Only
Through Wake Tech, individuals anywhere in North Carolina can apply for a culinary arts program and quickly develop essential skills. The school offers a diploma route, possible certificates, and an associate in applied science track.
Tuition
$76 - $268 per CreditContact
(919) 866-5992
awstumb@waketech.edu
Central Carolina Community College
Pittsboro, NC Campus Only
Central Carolina Community College offers a Culinary Arts degree program, a Culinary Fundamentals Certificate program, and a Farm-to-Table Entrepreneurship certificate program. These programs are notable for low student-teacher ratios, sustainability focus, and fast-track options.
Tuition
$76 - $268 per CreditContact
(919) 718-7510
rminter@cccc.edu
Durham Tech
Durham, NC Campus Only
Durham Tech is responsible for a Culinary Arts program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the food service industry. The program provides hands-on training in professional kitchen settings, covering food preparation, cooking techniques, baking, and international cuisines.
Tuition
$76 - $268 per CreditContact
(919) 536-7200 Ext: 4318
moodya@durhamtech.edu
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: