The Culinary Arts associate degree program prepares students for careers in food production and other career paths where food production serves as the foundation of success. Culinary laboratory courses focus on the progressive development and practice of culinary craft skills, product identification, and cooking methods, then expands to the study of classical and contemporary techniques and flavor profiles used in the production of the major world cuisines. Students also engage in a dining and beverage service laboratory which complements the kitchen laboratory experience and provides students with a comprehensive food production and service experience.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are expected to:

Execute professional cooking techniques and skills needed to produce, present and serve quality food and beverages utilizing ingredients and flavor profiles of the major world cuisines.
Apply sound nutritional practices related to healthful cooking by incorporating traditional ingredients and adapting classical and contemporary techniques to yield products that meet universal recognized federal and private dietary recommendations.
Apply FDA recommended food safety and sanitation principles to food and beverage products, tools and equipment used throughout the "flow of the food" in food and beverage operations.
Implement cost control measures to track goods, services and costs through the cycle of cost control and to evaluate revenue and expenses and their effect on profitability.
Communicate professionally and exhibit appropriate decision making skills with respect for individual and team diversity as it applies to the food and service industry.

The associate degree culminates with an internship experience where students gain industry experience which assists in their preparation for future careers. Students may engage in the internship experience at hotels, restaurants, country clubs, resorts, casinos, spas and workplace dining venues, and sites may be local, national or international if specific requirements are met.