Gwinnett Tech's Culinary Arts Program is a Recipe for Success

Many people dream of a career as a chef, caterer or other roles in the culinary field. At Gwinnett Technical College, students are working side by side with seasoned professionals to learn the theories, techniques and skills needed for a successful career.

“The Culinary Arts Program at Gwinnett Technical College is a hands-on program that integrates classic with contemporary methods of preparation,” said Program Director Chef Kerri Crean. “Students receive a realistic and strong depth of the fundamentals of culinary knowledge.”

Graduates of the program have a 98 percent in-field placement rate. However, success begins before the students don their caps and gowns with Gwinnett Technical College being the first college in the state to win all three culinary related categories at the Georgia SkillsUSA competition. Additionally, students have the opportunity to partner with the college’s Horticulture Program, providing enrichment in urban agriculture and through a Farm to Table initiative. Additionally, the program is one of 28 in the country with an articulation agreement with Johnson and Wales University, allowing the students to transfer to the school’s bachelor degree program.

With coursework in cooking, baking, serving and management skills, Gwinnett Technical College offers learning options for students no matter what career goals he or she might have in mind. In addition to these courses, students learn how to run and manage a restaurant or other food venue, focusing on the critical competencies to compete in the job market. This American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission program is available at the associate degree, diploma and technical certificate of credit level, as well as at through the college’s continuing education small business courses.

“Gwinnett Technical College has worked with employers and members of its program advisory committee to ensure the program’s curriculum, facilities and equipment meets the current and future needs of a rapidly changing industry,” said Dean of Business Sciences and Art & Design Jermaine Whirl.

Gwinnett Technical College allows students to start any semester with tuition at $89 a credit hour. Programs can run from several months to two years.

Gwinnett Technical College offers more than 150 degree, diploma and certificate program options that can be completed in two years or less. For more information, visit www.GwinnettTech.edu or call 770-962-7580.

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