The Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy began in 1896 in Paris. The culinary training school expanded to the United States, where it operated colleges on 17 campuses nationwide as of January 2011. The Pasadena branch of the Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy serves as a second campus for the Los Angeles branch of the private post-secondary school. Both the Los Angeles and Pasadena campuses were part of the California California School of Culinary Arts until Le Cordon Bleu purchased the school in 1994.
Students at the Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy in Pasadena can choose from two culinary arts programs. The post-secondary diploma program requires about a year of full-time study, and the associate of occupational studies degree takes two years. Students in the degree program take additional general education courses such as math and English, which are not required of diploma students. The college also offers a diploma and an associate of occupational studies degree in pastry arts and baking.
The Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy in Pasadena carries the accreditation of the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools and is licensed by California to grant diplomas and associate degrees. Students at the Pasadena campus have the benefit of working in the school's on-site restaurants, the School Cafe and the 561 Restaurant. Through internships at these restaurants, they gain hands-on work experience in both casual and fine dining environments.
The Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School in Pasadena requires a high school diploma or GED for admission. Students do not need to submit SAT or ACT college admission test scores for admissions consideration, but an in-person interview is required. As an accredited institution, the college participates in federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans. The school provides job placement assistance for graduates, including help with resume preparation. Though the college does not provide on-campus housing, students can get help finding apartments in the Pasadena area from the college.