How to Become a Chef

Knowing how the kitchen and restaurant works is vitally important to becoming a chef, but. But be warned, this first job might include mundane tasks like washing dishes and taking out the trash. However, the exposure to professionals in the kitchen is what matters — you'll learn if this is right for you.

To move on to culinary school, you need a high school diploma. Most apprenticeship programs require a high school diploma or GED to get in, so earn this very important diploma. GED programs vary by state, but you can usually get one for $150 or less.

Culinary schools take one to four years, depending on the program. The most common result is the diploma, associate, or bachelor's degree — master's culinary degrees are scarce in the United States. While you don't need a formal education to become a chef, those who have earned their culinary degree can quickly earn positions with greater responsibilities.

Here are different options for getting a culinary education:

• Culinary School: No matter the diploma, certificate, or degree that results from attending a culinary school, culinary school curriculum focuses strongly on what it takes to become a chef. This path can take anywhere from one to four years. Despite their generally higher cost, with the quality of faculty, training, and updated facilities, culinary school is a great way to start your chef career.
• Community College: Community colleges generally offer an associate degree, diploma, or certificate in culinary arts, just like many culinary schools do. But community colleges may be cheaper to attend. Community colleges also allow students to take a few general education classes, providing a more well-rounded degree.
• Vocational / Trade School: A vocational or trade school program could be one of the quickest ways to obtain culinary training. Some programs are associated with local high schools, where juniors or seniors can learn valuable skills, giving them a head start on a culinary degree or preparing them for entry-level work. Other programs are intended for high school graduates or GED recipients and teach a specific set of culinary skills, preparing students to move right into the kitchen.
• Four-Year Schools: The curriculum that leads to a bachelor's degree will be comprehensive. For example, a typical degree in the culinary arts will cover management, business, and marketing concepts, preparing graduates to run a restaurant or other food-related business. Students will also learn about a wide variety of cuisines and cooking methods.

The formal culinary program is just the beginning. Working as a chef requires a great deal of experience, which is why fresh graduates probably won't immediately begin working as a chef. Additional training under the tutelage of a professional chef, whether it's through an internship or apprenticeship or simply through day-to-day work, will heighten the skills and knowledge every chef needs. As a bonus, work experience is a great networking opportunity.

Whether as a commis or chef de partie, with your experience and networking opportunities, you can get your first chef job. From here, you can work your way up to sous chef and eventually to head chef.