An online associate degree in baking and pastry arts may provide students with the skills and training needed to master baking fundamentals. In these two-year programs, students may learn how to operate a bakery from all facets, including customer service and food preparation. Coursework within these programs may include a handful of general education courses along with electives and major-specific classes, such as menu development, food safety, and baking ingredients.

Individuals who complete the online associate degree program in baking and pastry arts may seek entry-level employment or transfer their credits into a four-year baccalaureate-level program in the same or related field. Graduates may find employment options in the food service industry in locations including bakeries, restaurants, bistros, and grocery stores.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 2% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online associate degree in baking and pastry arts may combine several general education requirements along with major-specific courses and electives. Students enrolled in these two-year programs may learn how to make specialty breads, desserts, pastries, and confections. Online coursework within these programs may include the following:

• Baking Ingredients
• Food Safety
• Cakes and Dessert
• Baking and Pastry Techniques
• Nutrition
• Menu Development
• Café Operations

Career Options

Graduates of an associate-level program in baking and pastry arts may seek entry-level employment in bakeries, bistros, private clubs, hotels, restaurants, groceries, and manufacturing facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in baking and pastry arts are expected increase by 2% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Baker
• Pastry Chef
• Chocolatier
• Cake Decorator
• Pastry Cook

Continuing Education

Individuals who successfully complete the online associate-level program in baking and pastry arts may opt to transfer their credits into a baccalaureate degree program. These four-year programs may include more business courses compared to the associate degree program, and students may learn more about different cultures and their cuisines. Employers may require post-secondary education for management positions in addition to experience and training in the field.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook