Benefits of Training at The French Culinary Institute

For training in classical French cooking at a flexible pace, The French Culinary Institute at the International Culinary Center in New York City is a great option. Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT), the school’s immersion approach makes it possible to complete full training programs in six to nine months, rather than the two years it takes at most other culinary schools. Unlike traditional culinary degrees, FCI offers both traditional and innovative programs for chefs and cooks at the amateur, career, and advanced levels.

From Amateur to Advanced

Those on the career path can take advantage of programs in Culinary Arts, Pastry Arts, Hospitality, and Bread Baking. These programs take anywhere from eight weeks to nine months, with day and evening options for classes. The programs provide in-class and hands on training comparable to other accredited programs, but in a shorter period of time thanks to FCI’s immersion schedule. Students in these programs will gain valuable hands-on experience working at the Zagat-rated, on-campus restaurant L’Ecole.

Amateur level programs are available in Bread Making, Cakes, Culinary Techniques, and Pastry. These are more specific offerings, and, lasting approximately 60 hours, require less of a time commitment than the career classes.

Advanced programs at FCI offer specialized training for professionals in Culinary Technology, Wine Studies, Business Development, and Food Journalism. Unique to FCI are Culinary Technology courses that cover food science; sous-vide, or vacuum-bag cooking; and working with hydrocolloids, ingredients that allow chefs to modify the texture and shape of food without altering the taste. These programs take anywhere from 15 to 90 hours to complete.

A major selling point of the FCI is the flexibility it offers students. FCI’s full immersion schedule, and curriculum designed by world-renowned culinary masters has students cooking from day one so they can spend more time applying skills and techniques learned in the classroom.

Costs and Benefits

Students at FCI receive a world-class education and training opportunities, all while living in New York City, but all this does come with a hefty price tag. Student housing and financial aid options may be available for some students, so check with the school before applying.

Upon completing the FCI programs, graduates will be well prepared for entry-level and possibly advanced positions. Furthermore, completing an education in a major culinary hub like New York City is sure to help students with professional networking in top restaurants throughout the city. Average salaries for culinary professionals range from $68,000 for executive chefs, $56,000 for restaurant managers, and $55,000 for pastry chefs.

The French Culinary Institute
462 Broadway
New York, NY 10013-2618
(888) FCI-CHEF
www.frenchculinary.com
Career Path: Culinary Arts, Pastry Arts, Hospitality, and Bread Baking
Amateur: Bread Making, Cakes, Culinary Techniques, and Pastry
Advanced: Culinary Technology, Wine Studies, Business Development, and Food Journalism
ACCSCT Accredited