Certificate programs generally offer short curricula that average in length two to three months; diploma programs are slightly longer at six to nine months. Both programs are designed to introduce individuals to the study of pastry arts or to provide more concentrated study for those who have already pursued culinary or hospitality management training. A certificate or diploma is awarded upon course completion. Both certificate and diploma programs can be found at community colleges, technical schools, culinary institutes and online. Due to the short nature of the programs, their primary goal is to have students focus solely on culinary skill development. Very little outside coursework is required. This is one of the primary differences between certificate or diploma programs and higher level degrees, which require a certain number of hours in general liberal arts training. Many of these programs offer small classes with intimate access to professional chefs as well as ongoing job placement following graduation in areas such as assistant pastry chefs or bakery assistants.
The one- or two-year associate degree program in baking and pastry arts is a very popular career route. Offered to high school graduates, these programs can be found at a wide variety of community colleges as well as other training sites, and they require more extensive coursework then either the certificate or diploma programs. Coursework includes bread-making, and pie, tart, pastry, cake, petit four and showpiece dessert techniques as well as classes on food safety, efficient food production, and other arts and sciences courses crucial to a well-rounded education. Upon completion, the graduate can work in many areas of the food industry, including hotels, restaurants or clubs. Students may also decide to pursue a higher level degree.
Four-year bachelor's degree programs are available to those students with a high school degree. Offered by colleges and universities as well as different culinary institutes, they require an even greater course-load than associate degree programs, and their goal is to prepare students to enter the job market in leadership roles in the food industry. Possible job options include executive pastry chef or bakery owner. During the four-year program, students will engage in hands-on baking and pastry arts activities, complete a wide variety of liberal arts coursework, and acquire the skills necessary to navigate the exciting professional world of baking and pastry arts after graduation.
Highly specialized master's degree programs are available for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree and wish to further their training or engage in research. Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, is one example of a master's degree program in food service education. These types of programs generally range from one to two years and can be more specifically tailored to a student's particular interest. Upon graduation, students are prepared to enter leadership roles in food service, branch out in an entrepreneurial fashion and start their own bakery or cafe, or enter the academic world and teach baking and pastry arts.