Frequently Asked Questions

How long are the degree programs?

The full-time culinary programs, including Culinary Arts, Baking and Pastry, and Food Service Management, span a total of two years or four semesters. Students are admitted in September and January.

How much is the program?

For in-county and other New Jersey residents with a chargeback, the approximate cost of the culinary arts degree program is $35,000 around half that of comparable culinary schools. Textbooks, tools, uniforms and miscellaneous expenses are additional. Click here for more information about tuition and fees.

Are uniforms, textbooks, tools, and/or knives included in the tuition?

These items are not included in the tuition at this time. They may be purchased from the college bookstore, or at a convenient location, provided they meet ACA standards and requirements. Click here for uniform, textbooks and tools information.

Are the degree programs full time?

Yes, the culinary program is not only full time, but follows a unique schedule with classes taking place five hours a day Monday through Thursday for 12 consecutive days. Culinary semesters follow the college calendar with allowances for winter and spring breaks. There are no culinary classes during the summer.

Can I attend part time?

Our courses can be arranged as a part time schedule for those students who are looking for a more flexible schedule.

What time are the classes? Do I have a choice of morning, afternoon or evening?

Classes are scheduled as follows:

Morning 7:00-12:00 p.m., M-Th
Afternoon 12:30-5:30 p.m., M-Th

Options for morning classes are offered on a first come first basis. Returning students for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, semester will be assigned classes/times upon registration.

When I finish the program what do I receive?

At the completion of all culinary courses, students participate in a culinary awards ceremony, where they receive a certificate of completion in the program. Based on their grade point average and criteria established by the American Culinary Federation, students may receive a gold, silver or bronze medal.

If I want the Associate in Applied Science Degree, are there additional courses I need to take? If so, what are they?

The additional courses needed for the degree program include the following general education credits:

Composition I and II
History or Humanities course
Social Science Course
General Education Course
Laboratory Science Course
Introduction to Computers Course

Are these General Education classes included in the tuition?

All seven additional academic courses are included in the estimation of culinary tuition charges. These courses can be completed in the student's home county and transferred into Atlantic Cape Community College, taken on campus or completed as online courses.

Do you have an externship included in the program?

Cooperative education is a requirement for the culinary program. Students will get hands-on experience at our restaurant Careme's during their 2nd year of studies.

When can I start the program?

Fall semester classes begin in late August and end in mid December. Spring semester classes begin late January, ending in mid May.

What is the procedure for Admission into the Academy?

Complete admission application and submit. Contact the college testing center and make arrangements to complete the College Placement Test. Registration is scheduled once Placement Test scores are received.

Do you have on-campus dorms/housing?

Atlantic Cape Community College does not have on campus dorms/housing. The housing office can provide a list of local apartment complexes and real estate offices for students seeking to secure their own housing while attending the Academy. Housing Office: (609) 625-1111 ext. 5085 or email Eric Stewart at estewart@atlanticcape.edu.