The small state of Rhode Island is conveniently situated by a coast that provides fresh seafood to the local culinary scene daily. A state rich in heritage and even richer in flavors, it is host to some of the best eateries and food markets in the country. If you are an aspiring chef looking to earn a qualification against the backdrop of a buzzing local environment, Rhode Island cooking schools are the best choice.
Finding a Cooking School in Rhode Island
Because of its small size, there are not many Rhode Island cooking schools. However, this can be beneficial for new graduates because the state is densely populated with locals and tourists, and culinary skills are in demand. Rhode Island cooking schools and institutes provide excellent, world-class curriculums, as well as facilities to expand student skill sets.
Universities and business schools in Rhode Island have opened up their curriculum over the years to include quality culinary training. Students can choose between degrees and short learning programs to suit career needs. Short, accelerated programs are beneficial for those who want to be employed within months. Degrees, on the other hand, can take up to 4 years and cover a lot of subjects that short courses can’t.
Rhode Island Local Scene and Cuisine
The state is a haven for seafood lovers, and aspiring chefs can have fun learning about the local tastes. Sampling famous dishes, meeting local chefs and going to food events are paramount to your future career. The food industry is a network of culinary professionals, and the sooner you become part of that network, the higher your chances of landing great internships and jobs.
Learning about local dishes can help you keep abreast of rising trends. Trends are important because they keep your skills relevant. A great way to stay current and relevant is to attend at least one of these annual events:
- Food for Thought in Providence
- Great Chowder Cook-off in Newport
- Taste of Rhode Island
Job Opportunities in Rhode Island
Students of Rhode Island cooking schools can look forward to a profitable future, with the average sous chef earning around $45 000 a year. Although this is the average, it is possible to earn more or less depending on the type of job you have. Salaries are determined by the level of demonstrated skills in the kitchen, education and the type of company you are recruited by.
Students with bachelor and associate degrees are typically paid more than those with basic technical skills. If you have good, basic kitchen skills and would like to earn a managerial position, get as much work experience as possible. Employer priorities differ. While some prefer candidates with work experience and little education, others hire graduates who are well-schooled but have little real-life practice.
Best Rhode Island Cooking Schools
- Johnson and Wales University: offer extensive and competitive degrees in culinary arts, food service management, baking and pastry, entrepreneurship and more
- Lincoln Culinary Institute
- University of Rhode Island
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