School of Technology, Trades, Business, and Hospitality

Culinary Skills Certificate

The Culinary Skills Certificate is a 39-credit program accredited by the American Culinary Federation that prepares students for entry-level cooking roles through intensive training in food preparation, production, and service. Students develop essential professional habits and technical expertise in international and regional cuisines, culminating in a 240-hour practicum and multiple industry certifications like ServSafe Food Manager®.

A focused female culinary student in a white chef's uniform and toque standing in a professional training kitchen.

Program Information

The Culinary Skills Certificate is designed to prepare students for entry-level cooking jobs in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, country clubs, caterers, cafes and institutional kitchens. Basic hot and cold food preparation, production, presentation, and service skills are taught. Development of proper work habits, professionalism, and the practice of food safety and sanitation procedures are stressed. Students will complete a 240-hour practicum (internship) experience. Students will earn several industry certifications such as Serv Safe Food Manager® and Certified Guest Service Professional®, among others.

Program accredited by the American Culinary Federation, meeting nationally recognized educational standards of excellence and competencies.

Success in the program is defined by your ability to apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios. This program ensures that every student achieves the following core competencies:

  • Produce multiple food products in a timely manner while demonstrating proficiency in both professional cooking and baking techniques.
  • Pass the NRAEF Food Protection Managers ServSafe™ examination and demonstrate industry standards in sanitation, safety, and personal hygiene.
  • Recognize ingredients from and perform cooking techniques associated with different regional, ethnic and international cuisines.
  • Exhibit interpersonal skills and respect in the treatment of colleagues and patrons.
  • Demonstrate food production and customer service skills in both kitchen and dining room.

Success starts with a solid plan. Your program's course sequence is designed to build your skills step-by-step. By following this plan, you ensure you're meeting all program requirements and staying on track.

 
 Program Pathway

Get Started

Program Facts

39Total Credits
3Semesters to Complete
17:1Students to Faculty

Start Here. Go Anywhere.

Transfer with Confidence

Make the most of the work you’ve already done! To find more information about how your credits transfer from Frederick Community College to a four-year institution, explore our comprehensive transfer agreements. These pathways are designed to help you transition seamlessly and save time on your journey to a bachelor’s degree.

Explore Transfer Options

 

Connect Your Program to a Career

Explore our Career Communities to see how your program of study translates into real-world opportunities. From specialized resources to professional associations, we’ll help you bridge the gap between the classroom and your career goals.

Explore Your Career Community

 

Get Hired Faster with Handshake

There’s a reason Handshake is the #1 tool for student hiring. Create your profile today to unlock exclusive access to local jobs, internships, and career fairs designed specifically for students like you.

Join Handshake

 

Program Contacts

Faculty

Elizabeth DeRose
Director of Hospitality, Culinary and Tourism
 HCTI@frederick.edu
 240.629.7912

Admissions

Jefferson Hall
1st floor
 admissions@frederick.edu
 301.624.2716

Financial Aid

Jefferson Hall
3rd Floor
 financialaid@frederick.edu
 301.846.2620

Related Programs

A professional pastry chef in a white uniform and hat carefully pipes delicate designs onto a baking sheet in a commercial kitchen.

Baking and Pastry Arts A.A.S.

Learn More
A culinary student with blue braided hair and a chef's coat uses a rolling pin to flatten dough in a professional kitchen.

Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate

Learn More
 Gemini said A professional head chef demonstrating plating techniques to culinary students in a commercial kitchen.

Culinary Arts and Supervision A.A.S.

Learn More
Apply to FCC

Start your journey as a Cougar!