An online master’s degree in culinary arts may provide individuals with knowledge and training in the study of food history and culture. In this one to two-year program, students may learn about food science and research, food service skills, and hospitality industry financing. Popular areas of concentration may include food service management, food policy, and nutrition.

Upon graduation, students may either seek employment or pursue a culinary arts doctoral degree from an accredited culinary school. Master’s-level graduates may seek employment in food science, hospitality management, and culinary education.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: -1% (2010-2020)*

Program Concentrations

The curriculum for a culinary arts master’s degree may consist of specialized electives and core classes geared toward the student’s area of concentration. Students may take courses such as food marketing, philosophy of food, and culture and cuisine. Possible areas of concentration for a master’s degree in culinary arts may include the following:

• International Hospitality Management
• Food Service Management
• Baking and Pastry Arts
• Nutrition
• Business and Entrepreneurship
• Food Policy

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in restaurant management, culinary education, research and development, hospitality management, and event planning. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, chef employment is projected to decline by 1% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Executive Chef
• Culinary Educator
• Director of Catering
• Food Writer
• Research Chef

Continuing Education

Those who successfully complete a master’s degree in culinary arts may wish to continue their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. A doctoral degree in culinary arts may offer advanced knowledge on food history and cultural dimensions. Employers may require some vocational or educational training at minimum for positions in the culinary arts field.

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