School and Ranking Information
There are only three schools that offer culinary arts training within 50 miles of Austin, TX. Two of the schools are for-profit institutions. Based on graduation rates and program availability, the top schools in Austin are:
- Winner: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts - Austin earned the top ranking with its strong retention and graduation rates.
- Runner Up: Austin Community College District was noted for its various learning and career resources available to students.
School Comparison Table
| Category | Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts - Austin | Austin Community College District |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Austin, TX | Austin, TX |
| School Type | <2-year, private for-profit | 2-year, public |
| Tuition & Fees (2021-2022) | $31,773 (for culinary art/chef training program)* | $2,550 (in-district)* $8,580 (in-state)* $10,590 (out-of-state)* |
| Culinary Arts Program Levels Offered | Certificate | Certificate; associate's degree |
| Culinary Arts Degrees Awarded (All Levels) in 2020-2021 | 164* | 4* |
| Most Popular Culinary Arts Program in 2020-2021 | Associate in Culinary Arts/Chef Training (162 awarded)* | Undergraduate Certificate in Culinary Arts/Chef Training (3 awarded)* |
| Undergraduate Graduation Rate (in 150% of normal program time) for 2018-19 Entering Class | 56%* | 9% (2015)* |
| Noteworthy | The school offers modern commercially equipped kitchens and part-time culinary jobs in conjunction with the program | The program offers job placement and internship opportunities |
Sources: *NCES College Navigator
Winner: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts - Austin
- Placement assistance in the culinary industry
- Modern kitchen facilities and equipment
- The program offers an accelerated curriculum
- 21:1 student-faculty ratio, according to the NCES
The 40-week culinary arts program at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts - Austin is designed to advance students' cooking methods and techniques, as well as develop individuals' knowledge of current culinary trends. Emphasizing small class sizes and personalized attention, this program's curriculum covers kitchen management skills, bread baking, seasoning, sauces, and knife skills. As part of their degree requirements, students must also complete a three-week farm experience at an off-site location. During these three weeks, students gain a greater understanding of local food sourcing and production, as well as sustainable farming practices.
Runner-Up: Austin Community College District
- Offers students a tutoring and learning lab
- Both programs prepare graduates for the Certified Culinarian certification
- Students have access to a student success office
The Culinary Arts Certificate program at Austin Community College District is designed to develop students' culinary skills within a commercial setting, while also advancing individuals' management abilities. Accredited by the ACF, this program features coursework in food production and planning, meat preparation and cooking, basic food preparation, and baking. Along with a field experience, the program requires completion of courses in sanitation and safety, nutrition, and the hospitality industry.
An Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts program is also available to students. In addition to the courses featured in the certificate program, this degree program includes coursework in beverage management, dining room service, international cuisine, and purchasing for hospitality operations.