* Culinary Arts: This is the most direct route. These programs are typically offered at culinary schools or within larger universities' hospitality programs. They focus heavily on practical cooking skills and techniques.
* Culinary Science: This major blends culinary arts with food science, focusing on the scientific principles behind cooking and food preservation.
* Hospitality Management: This broader major covers various aspects of the hospitality industry, including food service management, restaurant operations, and hotel management. It may include some culinary training, but the emphasis is on the business side.
* Food Studies: This interdisciplinary field examines food from cultural, social, economic, and historical perspectives. It might not involve hands-on cooking as much as culinary arts, but it offers a broader understanding of the food system.
The best choice depends on your career goals. If you want to be a chef, a Culinary Arts degree is the most direct path. If you want to manage restaurants, Hospitality Management might be a better fit. If you're interested in the science behind food, Culinary Science is a good option.