Online Catering Schools
Online catering programs prepare students to run their own catering business, or seek employment in food services management or the culinary arts. Online catering degrees may appeal to individuals who are creative, have strong time-management skills, are leaders, and are business-savvy. Students may earn an associate degree in catering, and select schools may offer a diploma or certificate option.
Graduates of catering programs may seek employment in the food services industry, whether it is working directly in the kitchen, overseeing food preparation, managing others, or starting their own business. These programs may provide students with the skills and training needed to begin a career as a caterer, hotel banquet manager, restaurant catering manager, special events planner, or personal chef.
Available Degree Levels
- Career Diploma: Varies
- Certificate: One to two years to complete
- Associate Degree: Two years to complete
Students enrolled in online diploma programs in catering learn the basics surrounding food preparation and cooking methods. They may learn how to select different types of spices, how to choose the correct supplies and equipment, and how to properly cook meat. Courses may include food styles, gourmet kitchen, poultry and game, fish and shellfish, baking and pastry, and world cuisines.
Certificate programs in catering are designed for individuals who are interested in starting their own catering business or for those who have a general interest in cooking and catering. These online programs are often offered in conjunction with hospitality, tourism, or cooking programs. Coursework may cover menu creation, sanitation and food safety, cooking methods, food presentation, desserts and baked goods, essential etiquette for business and hospitality, culinary arts, and cost control.
Online associate-level programs in catering are typically geared towards individuals who are interested in seeking managerial positions in catering or the food services industry. In addition to equipping students with the essential management skills, these programs may train students in the fundamentals of cooking and provide them a strong background in the food and hospitality industries. Coursework may cover topics such as quality control, marketing, staff management, cost control, ordering ingredients, and staff training.
Career Options
Graduates of online catering program may have acquired the skills to prepare and serve different types of cuisine or learned how to best utilize a gourmet kitchen. Graduates may also opt to start their own catering business. Online catering programs may provide students the skills to seek entry-level employment in the food services industry. Graduates may also obtain internships, apprenticeships, or out-placement programs to secure experience.
Possible career fields include:
- Personal Chef
- Hotel Banquet Manager
- Special Events Planner
- Restaurant Catering Manager
- Caterer