collageThere are many online courses available for you in culinary courses. The interesting part about these free online courses is that they will provide you with your certificate at the end of the training. These online culinary school are available at undergraduate and graduate levels for international students.
You can get more information about online culinary school on Collegelearners. Read on to discover the latest information about online culinary school free, online culinary school Canada, online culinary school cost, online culinary school near me, online culinary school Philippines, online culinary school uk.
What is Culinary?
Basically, Culinary is related to cooking. It refers to the art of creating, cooking, presenting, garnishing, and plating. Culinary has different types and every culinary has specific styles of cooking and culinary tools.
So, here I listed some best online culinary courses, these online chef certification courses are enough to teach you every cooking or culinary skill from basic to advanced level, which is required for every chef.
From these professional online cooking courses, you will also learn about every culinary ingredient which is used in cooking. Cooking is a great art and also very old. But the main part of cooking or culinary is practice. An everyday practice can make you a successful and professional Chef or a Cookery.
Get Cooking with a Culinary Education
On the surface, food is a commodity, but in the hands of trained and skilled professionals, it transforms into art. Yet, the culinary industry is larger than just cooking; it encompasses business, marketing, and sales and operations. For students considering a culinary education, the array of educational and subsequent career paths are varied.
A culinary education is indispensable to people who want to pursue a career in the food service industries. This training provides students with an essential foundation in the culinary arts and prepares them for a multitude of occupational avenues. Online culinary degree programs vary in curriculum focus, structure, and length—which means students should take an assessment to determine if online learning is actually right for them. The checklist below includes a profile of the culinary student who is the best fit for an online education program.
- Passionate about food
- Want to learn the basics outside of a professional kitchen
- Interested in learning about each facet of the food service industry
- Interested in developing fundamental culinary skills
- Gain foundational knowledge of cooking techniques and methods
- Need flexible schedules and self-paced learning options
- Cannot commute and need a learn-from-home option
Top Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.VIEW MORE PROGRAMS
Culinary Specializations
Online Culinary Certificates
Online culinary certificate programs are specialized, short-term, non-degree educational programs that are traditionally designed to be completed in a year or less by full-time culinary students. Narrowly focused in scope, these programs concentrate on fundamental knowledge and skill building. Students typically progress through and complete a set course list in topics ranging from modern cooking methods to knife skills, food specific (e.g. lamb, poultry) to recipe creation and conversion. Online Certificate in Culinary Arts
| COURSE NAME | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Classic Cooking Methods | This class is an introduction to the fundamentals of the culinary arts and cooking techniques, teaching students about culinary terminology, basic cooking principles, and professional standards. |
| Knife Skills | In this class, students develop practical knife skills that are used in modern kitchens, including a review of different types of knives, grips, and using knives effectively in the preparation of different foods. |
| Introduction to Soups | An introduction to soups, students study the different types of soup (e.g. thickened, specialty) and learn about the process of soup production, how to follow set processes, and how to complement a main course with soup. |
| Kitchen Math | Students gain an understanding of kitchen math and recipe conversion, learn about taking accurate measurements, and why math is crucial when it comes to recipe preparation, cost control, and inventory ordering. |
Skills Learned
- Ability to use professional cooking equipment
- Technical proficiencies in modern cooking methods
- Knowledge to arrange a kitchen and use knives effectively
- Skills in recipe conversion
Future Opportunities
- Station Cook
- Line Cook
- Banquet Prep Cook
Online Culinary Diplomas
Although sometimes used interchangeably, diplomas and certificate programs do diverge slightly. Unlike a certificate, credits from a diploma program are generally eligible to be transferred to degree programs (e.g. associate, bachelor’s). Like the certificate, online diploma programs consist of several courses in the culinary arts. Depending on the institution, students may have to complete between 30 and 72 credits of study to earn their diploma. Curriculum is career-focused, providing students with a background in food preparation, an understanding of the food service and hospitality industries, and equip them with technical skills in the fundamental and advanced culinary arts. Online Diploma in Culinary Arts
| COURSE NAME | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Culinary Fundamentals | This class is an introduction to the conceptual theories of cooking and covers topics ranging from classical vegetable cuts to culinary terminology, kitchen equipment to knife skills. |
| Baking and Pastry Arts | In this course, students learn how to prepare high-quality baked goods, studying production techniques, ingredient ratios, and quality measures. |
| Introduction to Food Production | In this course, students study the core ingredients of the kitchen, such as vegetables, herbs, fruits, dairy, animal proteins, poultry, and fish. |
| Restaurant Cooking | Students develop basic skills for preparing dishes in a restaurant setting, learning both classical and contemporary culinary techniques. |
Skills
- Proper classical and modern cooking techniques
- Ability to apply nutritional principles to food production and menu planning
- Skills to maintain industry-level standards of sanitation and safety
- Use appropriate equipment to create high-quality culinary products
Future Opportunities
- Chef de Partie
- Baker
- Pantry Chef
Online Culinary Associate Degrees
Associate degree programs offer a more comprehensive curriculum than certificate or diploma programs. Typically requiring approximately two-years of full-time study to complete, the curriculum in these programs provide students with a complementary understanding of food service management and operations and professional culinary skills. Depending on the program, students may have to earn between 60 and 70 credits to satisfy graduation requirements. Online Associate in Culinary Arts
| COURSE NAME | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Food Science | This class allows students to learn about the science of food and its composition and how it reacts physically during cooking and storage. |
| Food Safety | This courses is an introduction to food production regulations and includes the study of subject ranging from facility sanitation to storing and reheating food, handling hazardous foods to kitchen safety. |
| Menu Planning | In this class, students gain an understanding of menu development and related factors, including menu design, menu planning, item pricing, and how to use the menu to maximize profitability. |
| Marketing and Cost Control | In this class, students explore restaurant operations, studying topics including restaurant layout and design, marketing, cost control, personnel, and concept analysis. |
Skills Learned
- Understanding of how to control labor and food costs in commercial operations
- Ability to use industry-specific computer hardware and software
- Skills in food service-related management, finance, and communication
- Expertise in contemporary culinary techniques and methods
Future Opportunities
- Food and Beverage Manager
- Sous Chef
- Culinary Educator
Online Bachelor’s Culinary Degrees
Although the number of online bachelor’s degrees is limited, there are a few available both in the culinary arts and culinary management. These are traditional four-year programs that open doors to multiple options in the culinary industry after graduation. Curriculum blends culinary-specific instruction with generational education courses, helping students develop not only practical skills in the field, but critical soft skills such as communication and critical thinking. Most programs require between 124 and 132 credit hours of study to complete and some institutions require students to have completed a related associated degree in the culinary arts or have professional experience prior to admission. Online Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Management
| COURSE NAME | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Menu Management | This course serves as an introduction to menu development and planning, teaching students how menus fit within foodservice operations. |
| Food and Beverage Operations | This class provides students with an understanding of the operations at the front-of-the-house in a restaurant, and covers topics such as personnel management, cost control, and customer service. |
| Inventory and Cost Controls | In this class, students study the underlying methodologies behind purchasing inventory and cost controls, including a review of the selection, control, and purchasing processes in the food and beverage industry. |
| Facilities Management | This class serves as a primer to the layout, design, and maintenance of food service facilities, with an introduction to subjects such as building codes, energy conservation, food service equipment, and operating expenses. |
Skills Learned
- Knowledge of modern culinary cuisine
- Fundamental and advanced culinary techniques
- Communication, problem solving and critical thinking skills
- Business skills in finance and marketing
Future Opportunities
- Restaurant Manager
- Kitchen Manager
- Event Planner and Manager
Online Culinary Master’s Degrees
At this time, online master’s degrees in the culinary arts do not exist. However, students may choose to pursue a campus-based alternative.
Financial Aid for Online Education FAQs
Deciding on which culinary program to choose often boils down to cost—and how to pay for the program. Below is a list of regularly asked questions regarding paying for an online culinary education.COLLAPSE ALL EXPAND ALL
- Is financial aid available?
- Can a student make monthly payments?
- Are there scholarships and grants for online students?
- How does an online student apply for financial aid?
Use our financial aid guide to learn more about funding a culinary education. Read More
The Tools That Make Culinary Study Online Possible
It may be slightly surprising to think that students can learn to become skilled culinarians through an online program. The culinary arts are tangible occupations—requiring hands-on training and instruction. However, the culinary arts are well-suited for online learning. Below is a list of different tools and processes that make learning possible.
Online Theoretical Courses
Online courses are effective for teaching theoretical culinary concepts. Students can complete classes in topics such as cost control, kitchen operations, hygiene and safety, food science, nutrition, and more without ever setting foot in a classroom.
Practical Demonstrations
Many courses offer live webcams or recorded videos of cooking demonstrations from instructors and chefs. Students can follow along in their own kitchen, practicing the techniques from the online demonstration or video.
At-Home Instruction
Most online culinary programs—especially certificate and diploma programs—are self-paced. Students are provided with cooking assignments they can complete at-home to develop specific culinary skills and techniques.
Self-Assessment
An important part of culinary instruction is developing a flavor palate, to understand how a food actually tastes. Online programs accomplish this by providing students with self-assessment sheets for their assignment. These self-assessment sheets include a recipe and rubric for students to follow to assess and judge their cooking and culinary skills.
Learning Management System
Although it varies by institution, online programs typically use a Learning Management System to conduct online learning activities. Students log-in to the learning platform to access course materials, participate in online discussions with their peers and instructors, participate in chat sessions, submit assignments, and watch instructional videos.
Externships
The externship is a major component of most online culinary programs. Experiential learning in a supervised setting help students develop the professional skills necessary for employment in the food service industry. Online students typically work with the individual program to find an approved local externship opportunity, where they can work under the direction of chefs and other culinary professionals.
How to Evaluate Online Culinary Programs
Choosing an online culinary school is no different than choosing a physical campus to attend. Prospective students should research their options and decide what type of curriculum best fits their academic, personal and professional needs.
Accreditation
Accreditation ensures an online culinary program has met established standards for curriculum, faculty and student services. The US Department of Education does not accredit programs or schools, but does approve third-party accreditation agencies. That means culinary schools may be accredited by different organizations, such as the Accrediting Commission of the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation, the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, or the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Food Safety
Although it varies on a state-by-state basis, students should review the culinary school’s compliance with regulatory and safety licensure requirements for food safety. Does the program adhere to the National ServSafe certification regulations?
Faculty
It is also important to research faculty members before attending an online culinary school, reviewing the academic and professional background of professional instructors. Are faculty members engaged and do they offer mentoring relationships?
Curriculum
Picking the right school means picking a program that offers the right blend of knowledge and skill-building curriculum. How does the school structure teaching practical techniques to students in online learning sessions? Is the curriculum broad in scope (e.g. do students learn how to use knives, how to season food, how to organize a kitchen)?
Externship Services
As noted above, real-world, instructor-led, and supervised instruction is important to the learning process. Students should ask about the school’s externship placement services. Do they help students locate opportunities? Can students select their own proctor and instructors?
Culinary Resources
There are numerous student-focused resources available from culinary associations and organizations, ranging from student memberships to scholarships. Below is a list of some of these associations that support students and their educational and professional goals.
- American Culinary FederationThe American Culinary Federation is the country’s largest professional organization for chefs, cooks—and aspiring professionals. Students can learn about accredited culinary programs, access educational resources, and learn about career paths in the industry.
- American Society of BakingThe American Society of Baking is a professional organization for commercial baking professionals. It offers a membership to full-time students, along with benefits including free admission to its annual conference and scholarships.
- Bread Bakers Guild of AmericaThe Bread Bakers Guild of America is a community of artisanal bread bakers. It offers individual memberships to culinary students and access to a variety of educational resources.
- Consolidated Foodservice Scholarship ProgramSponsored by Consolidated Foodservice, this scholarship program provides $500 to high school students or current college students who desire to pursue an education and career in the hospitality management or culinary arts fields.
- International Association of Culinary ProfessionalsThe International Association of Culinary Professionals is a worldwide organization of individuals working within the food and beverage industries. It offers an Emerging Professional membership to students enrolled in a culinary training program, as well as networking events, educational resources, and credentialing programs.
- International Cake Exploration SocietéThe International Cake Exploration Societé is a membership-based organization for individuals who work in cake decoration and sugar art. It offers a scholarship program and memberships to students who are enrolled in an accredited vocational or culinary school.
- James Beard Foundation Scholarship ProgramThe James Beard Foundation offers an array of scholarships that change from year-to-year. Although the programs vary, they are all designed to help aspiring culinary students achieve their professional goals.
- National Association of College and University Food Services Scholarship ProgramThe NACUFS offers a scholarship program for students attending an accredited program in foodservice or related area. Since 1992, the organization has awarded nearly $300,000 to students.
- National Career Development AssociationThe National Career Development Association can help students refine their career path, secure training, and locate career opportunities in their local area.
- National Restaurant AssociationThe foodservice industry’s trade association, the National Restaurant Association provides educational programs and professional development opportunities for individuals interested in careers in the restaurant industry.
- Occupational Outlook HandbookA resource from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this database includes career profiles—including culinary occupations—and offers an overview of what the job is, education required, and job growth projections.
7 Best Free Online Culinary Courses with Certificate
List of free online cooking courses with certificates:
1. Think Like a Chef: A Beginner’s Guide to Cooking with Confidence
From: SkillShare
This is a beginner-level free online course for cooking, from which you will learn the basic knowledge of cooking and learn the proper techniques for preparing healthy and tasty foods.
From this course, you’ll also learn to choose the right products and where to find the best ingredients and also learn to use different varieties of kitchen tools properly.
This online short cooking course will also teach you about flavor and how flavors can play a vital role in cooking.
What You’ll Learn from this Course:
- You will learn the basic knowledge of cooking.
- You learn the exact cooking techniques and how to cook tasty and healthy foods.
- Learn about kitchen tools and how to use them properly.
- You know about flavors and how flavors can play a vital role in cooking.
Course Enrollment: Free
Certificate of Completion: Yes (Paid)
Course Duration: Approx. 38 minutes
Enroll in this Course>> [Most Recommended]
2. Culinary Education Crash Course – Basics in becoming a Chef
From: Udemy
Do you have a passion for cooking? Want to build up your kitchen skills quickly?
Then this beginner-friendly online culinary management course from Udemy is absolutely perfect for you. Through this online chef course, you will learn how to cook or prepare meals and the combination of flavors.
This course also offers complete cooking guidelines with professional skills which are very helpful for beginners to advance their level of training.
You will learn the different methods of cooking, like Sauteing, Frying, Poaching, and others. And you’ll also get to know about the important essentials for cooking like the mixes of herbs and spices, sauces, salads, etc.
Through this course, students can also learn about how to care for their kitchen tools properly and how they can be used in kitchen operations.
What You’ll Learn from this Course:
- Learn to cook properly and what is the combination of flavors.
- Learn the different cooking methods.
- Learn which are important essentials for cooking.
- Complete guidelines for beginners to advanced levels of cooking.
- Learn about Wines from basic to advanced levels.
Certificate of Completion: Yes
Course Duration: 1.5 hours
3. Easy Techniques for Mastering Classic Indian Cooking
From: Skillshare
Through this online Indian cooking course, you’ll learn the five cooking techniques specific to Indian cooking and different vegetarian culinary skills.
This course is really very helpful, for those who like to cook and want to make authentic Indian food at home.
You will learn the different types of herbs and spices and also learn about the tempering of whole spices which is called “Tarka”, a lesson on “Chutney”, and the process of grinding different spices, etc.
What You’ll Learn from this Course:
- Introduction of Indian cooking.
- Toasting and Grinding Spices and What Does “Masala” Mean?
- Key Ingredient: Ginger-Garlic Paste and What is a Curry.
- Learn about Tarka: Tempering Spices.
- Know about Chutneys: What and Where it is used in Indian Cooking.
Certificate of Completion: Yes
Course Duration: 46 minutes
Enroll in this Course>> [Recommended for Indian cooking]
4. Baking Basics: Make Perfect Bread & Pastries Every Time
From: Skillshare
This is an online cooking and baking course which contains 4 different video modules, from which you can learn different types of knife skills which are very useful while cooking.
Also, you’ll learn basic to advance cooking skills and how to read recipes and weigh ingredients the right way. And from here you can learn the step-by-step guidelines for cooking which are useful in hotel kitchens.
This course will also help you to learn how to cut different types of fish and meats as well as vegetables and you can understand the principles of baking and cooking methods with procedures.
This free video cooking course makes you ready to begin a career in any commercial hospitality kitchen, catering company, or bakery company.
What You’ll Learn from this Course:
- You learn different types of knife skills.
- Basic to advance level of cooking.
- Basic principles of cooking and baking.
- Exact kitchen methods are useful in hotels, catering, and bakery companies.
Certificate of Completion: Yes
Course Duration: 4 weeks
5. Virtual Cooking Basics Class from Confetti
From: Confetti
Through this online cooking certificate program, you will learn an overview of various cooking skills and some advanced techniques of cooking.
It will also teach you the nutritional aspects of foods and how to prepare stocks and sauces. From this online cooking class, you get to know about all types of meat and fish and how to cut them properly.
And also learn about Pasta and how to combine flavor and eggs or water to create it. Lastly, you’ll get a deep knowledge of desserts, different types of desserts, and how to make desserts properly.
What You’ll Learn from this Course:
- Learn an overview of cooking techniques.
- You’ll learn how to make Stock and Sauce.
- All types of meat, and fish, and how to cut the meat properly.
- Learn all about desserts and the processes to prepare them.
Certificate of Completion: Yes (Paid)
Course Duration: Approx. 60 minutes
6. The Cook’s Roadmap
From: Rouxbe
The Cook’s Roadmap is a free online chef course from Rouxbe, which is a leading online culinary school. This online cooking certification course is a roadmap for chefs, which helps to learn about cooking skills from basic to advanced levels step by step.
This course will also help you to learn the skills of handling chef’s knives like an expert with a basic macro and micro-nutrient guide.
Through this course, you will learn how to perfectly roast chicken as well as vegetables and also learn about pan-frying, roasting, steaming, and sweating.
What You’ll Learn from this Course:
- How to handle knives like a pro.
- Learn about the nutritional aspects of foods.
- How to cook perfect grains and legumes.
- How to apply dry heat cooking and moist-heat cooking methods.
- How to prepare stocks and how to use them to enhance flavor.
- Learn to prepare salad and salad dressing.
- Learn about Pasta making.
- Learn about Wheat and Gluten.
Certificate of Completion: No
Course Duration: Approx. 6 hours
7. Inspired Cooking: Creating Dishes from Art
From: Skillshare
From this culinary arts online course, you’ll learn the latest contemporary Culinary techniques and methodologies and this is also helpful for the food business foundation.
This online culinary program will teach you to prepare for a variety of Food industry roles. Will learn the exact Culinary art skills from basic to advanced levels.
Know about Culinary history, food service math, and food nutrition. You’ll also gain knowledge about modern culinary tools and techniques in food service preparation, operations, and management.
What You’ll Learn from this Course:
- Foodservice Management
- Culinary Arts and Patisserie
- Learn about Purchasing and Cost Control
- Culinary Entrepreneurship
- Learn about Menu Design and Management
- Learn Foodservice Math and Accounting
- Learn food science and management.
- Learn about Restaurant Operations.
collage