The Culinary Institute of America

For more than six decades, The Culinary Institute of America has been setting the standard for excellence in professional culinary education. The CIA has inspired excellence throughout the food world by leading the way: in the Education of students, in the Elevation of the culinary profession, through the Innovation of thought leadership, and through Collaborations on critical food and industry issues. In all these ways, the college has truly changed the way the world looks at food.

At The Culinary Institute of America you'll receive a renowned education from the world's premier culinary college. We offer both bachelor's and associate degrees in culinary arts.

• "Learn while doing" with 1,300+ hours of hands-on culinary training.
• Complete an 18-week externship practicing your skills in the real world.
• Get into the action in our on-campus public restaurants.
• Build practical cooking skills as you learn to prep, cook, and plate a variety of cuisines, working with professional equipment and top-quality ingredients in our new teaching kitchens.
• Graduate ready to pursue careers such as chef, restaurateur, food writer, foodservice manager, research & development professional, and so much more!
• Join the CIA family, instantly becoming part of the CIA community of students, instructors, and alumni, all of whom have a deep commitment to the culinary arts and a kinship with those who practice them.
• Earn a valuable CIA credential in culinary arts that lets employers know you have the skills, knowledge, and professionalism to succeed at your job and take on new challenges.

You can complete our associate degree program in only 21 months. Or choose our 38-month bachelor's degree for additional management studies and preparation for leadership positions. Bachelor's students also take part in a Food, Wine, and (Agri)culture Trip to California, Italy, China, Spain, or France.

Your CIA experience won't just change the way you think about food; it'll change the way you think about the world. Join the 44,000-member CIA alumni network and become our next success story!

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to those who qualify.