Culinary Arts

The Southwestern Illinois College Culinary Arts and Food Management program prepares students for entry-level positions in the food service industry. The program offers five different educational options to meet students’ specific needs.

The Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts and Food Management degree program provides students with the knowledge of restaurant management and culinary arts skills necessary to obtain an entry-level chef or restaurant management position. Some graduates prefer to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree. The program has an outstanding reputation among notable colleges and universities. SWIC can assist in the transfer process.

The Baking and Pastry degree program prepares students for careers in the culinary arts/baking industry. The Associates in Applied Science program blends specialized baking science, technology and applications, as well as foundational business competencies to operate a successful baking operation.

The four Culinary Arts and Food Service Management certification programs provide specific foundations to help prepare for a particular job in the industry or to enhance present job skills. One certificate offers a food service concentration while another offers a food service and management combination. The third certificate concentrates on food preparation. The fourth certificate focuses specifically on the art and science of baking and pastry.

SWIC Culinary Arts and Food Management Program partners with National Restaurant Association and the Council of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education.