Culinary Arts Associate Degree
Sharpen Your Culinary Skills with an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from NECC
Why pursue a degree in Culinary Arts?
Do you enjoy cooking or baking? Would you like to manage a restaurant, catering service, or banquet venue? If so, NECC’s Culinary Arts, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree program could be the recipe you need to sharpen your skills and prepare for a dynamic career in the fast-paced food service industry.
NECC Degrees: Key Ingredients for Successful Culinary Careers!
At NECC, our Associate Degree in Culinary Arts combines a mix of courses with hands-on cooking training and exposure to business knowledge, preparing you for employment in the food service industry above entry level. You’ll also have the option of transferring credits towards a bachelor’s degree in a Culinary Arts-related field, saving you thousands of dollars on your education!
While a minimum of 60 credits is required, students have the flexibility to earn a certificate on a full-time or part-time basis—making it ideal for those already employed in the food service industry.
Ready to explore where your passion and creativity can take you?
What you’ll get from our Culinary Arts program
Discover the Ins and Outs of the Culinary World
Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of culinary arts, where you’ll get to learn about the practice and art of cooking through theory, technique, palate training, speed, and teamwork. Furthermore, you’ll gain real-world experience in food service management and entrepreneurship, proving that following your culinary dreams can lead to something extraordinary!
Do Cool Stuff, Not Just Homework
Forget about endless lectures. We’re talking about interactive classes and workshops where you practice what you’ve learned in real-life scenarios, as well as projects that connect you with others in the local culinary community.
Gear Up for a Great Career in the Culinary Arts Field
At NECC, we’re here to help you build a skill set that’s in demand. Whether you see yourself as the next great cook, baker, restaurant manager, banquet manager, or something else, we’ve got you covered. While guiding you every step of the way, our experienced instructors will show you how to:
Build a solid foundation in the many food service facets and professional settings- Develop skills in restaurant operations, banquet operations, and cooking techniques
- Understand culinary basics, including food preparation and cooking techniques, baking, nutrition, safety and sanitation, cost controls, and house management (front and back)
- Gain practical experience through a required program internship
Your Schedule, Your Rules
Juggling life, work, and study? No sweat. With a mix of online and on-campus options, NECC makes it easy for you to fit study into your life, not the other way around.
Once you’ve completed our Culinary Arts Associate Degree program, you’ll have the option of applying those credits towards a bachelor’s degree in Food Business, Hospitality Management, Culinary Science, Baking and Pastry Arts, or a related field at a four-year institution.
Quote:
My experience has changed me as a person.”
Laurine Faro, General Studies: Individualized Option
Where this journey can take you
Many above entry-level jobs in the food service industry offer much potential for growth. In some ways, starting out with an Associate degree is an advantage—you can begin working in the field and decide whether you like it before investing additional time and money obtaining a bachelor’s degree.
If you’re already employed in the culinary field, our Associate degree program will empower you to enhance your skills within your current position or prepare you to pursue additional responsibilities.
Imagine yourself serving in one of these culinary roles:
- Producing palate-pleasing baked goods as a Baker
- Preparing delicious food for satisfied diners as a Cook
- Streamlining business efficiency as a Restaurant Manager
- Maintaining food quality and safety standards as a Kitchen Manager
- Ensuring guests enjoy an exceptional dining experience as a Banquet Manager
- Overseeing all aspects of catered events as a Catering Manager
Why choose NECC for your Culinary Arts degree?
We Get It
At NECC, inspiring our students to succeed is our top priority. Modern, relevant, and engaging, our Culinary Arts Associate Degree courses are designed with you in mind.
NECC’s dedicated faculty and staff help students develop the skills they need to advance in the workforce or transfer to a four-year college or university. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention and support, empowering students to thrive academically. We also offer a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising.
With over 60 credit programs, two convenient campuses, robust student support services, and a vibrant student life, NECC is committed to providing an affordable, accessible, and high-quality education for all.
Learn from the Pros
Our instructors aren’t just teachers. They’re experienced professionals who live and breathe Culinary Arts and Culinary Management.
Experience Beyond the Classroom
At NECC, it’s not just about earning a degree. It’s about building a network, finding your tribe, and acquiring the tools necessary to chase your dreams. Our Haverhill and Lawrence campuses are home to a diverse range of clubs and organizations and activities that help students connect with peers who share similar interests.
Whether you choose to gain leadership experience, stay healthy and fit, join a club, or participate in varsity sports, and student activities, we’ll guarantee you’ll have fond memories of your time at NECC.
We Got Your Back
From the day you start until the day you land your first big gig, our team is here to support, guide, and cheer you on. At NECC, our goal is to empower our students by equipping them with the skills and tools necessary to thrive, wherever they choose to work.
Career Services
NECC Connect
What Can I Do With This Major?
Got Prior Learning or Work Experience?
With NECC’s Credit for Prior Learning, you can move through the program at a faster pace, and graduate sooner! The best part is these credits are covered free-of-charge for eligible Massachusetts learners.
Support for Every Student
NECC offers a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising, to help students thrive academically. Want to transfer to NECC? Our advisors are happy to assist you.
Career Outlook for Culinary Arts Professionals North of Boston
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities for cooks and bakers are projected to increase more than 5% within the next nine years. Employment opportunities for food service managers are projected to increase 2% during that period.
At NECC, our Culinary Arts Associate Degree graduates have an exceptional rate of employment while working as cooks, bakers, and managers (front of house and back of house). Some have gone on to start their own successful businesses!
How Much Can I Expect to Make While Working in the Culinary Arts Field?
The earning potential for culinary arts professionals varies based on several factors, including education, certifications, experience, setting, and additional skills. For example, according to Salary.com, the average salary for a Restaurant Manager in Massachusetts was $63,808 as of August, 2024.¹
With a Culinary Arts Associate Degree from NECC, you’ll be qualified to pursue or advance your career in these roles:
Administrative Assistant
Responsible for clerical and organizational tasks like file organizing, scheduling appointments, assisting other staff members, and drafting correspondences or messages. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $50,286 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $45,281 and $56,490.¹
Customer Service Representative
Assists customers directly while resolving complaints, answering questions, and processing orders. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $42,579 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $38,357 and $47,813.¹
Human Resources Assistant
While reporting to the HR Director, responsible for various administrative tasks, maintaining employee records, and helping with recruitment and payroll processes. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $51,666 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $46,263 and $57,618.¹
Advertising Sales Agent
Also known as an Advertising Sales Representative, these professionals negotiate advertising rates, prepare contracts, and manage the administrative aspects of the sales process. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $67,256 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $56,904 and $77,832.¹
Office Manager
Responsible for ensuring a business’s daily operations run smoothly and efficiently. Office managers organize employees and ensure that important structures, such as budgets and training processes, are in place. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $93,219 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $83,704 and $105,214.¹
Court Mediator
As a neutral, third-party observer, helps people in a legal dispute reach an agreement by facilitating negotiations between the parties. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $50,248 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $45,724 and $56,132.¹
Tutor
Teach students subjects in a personalized way, either one-on-one or in small groups. Tutors also help students prepare for exams, entry requirements, and other qualifications. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $64,945 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $54,219 and $79,234.¹
How to Get Started as a Culinary Arts Professional in the Merrimack Valley Region
Feeling pumped? We thought so! Learn more about how to apply for the Associate Degree in our Culinary Arts program. Still unsure that it’s the right fit for you? Contact us to chat more about why this could be the best decision you’ll ever make!
FAQs
Sources and Citations: ¹Salary information provided on this page is sourced from Salary.com. The data reflects estimates based on employer surveys and job listings. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, and other factors.
Upcoming Events
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Campus Tour and Info Session – Haverhill
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Haverhill, SC-104
Campus Tour and Info Session – Haverhill
3:00 pm to 4:30 pm
Haverhill, SC-104
Helpful Links
- Program Pathway
- Academic Catalog
- Culinary Arts LibGuide
- Center for Business & Accounting
- Non-Credit Culinary Classes
- What Can I Do With This Major?
Got Questions?
We're here to help. Contact us if you have questions.
Denis Boucher
Program Coordinator
Hospitality Management & Culinary Arts
978-241-4781
