In the world of culinary education, Le Cordon Bleu is a known and respected name. Students attending this school who are interested in the art of chocolate making should pursue an associate of applied science in Le Cordon Bleu Pâtisserie and Baking degree. In addition to chocolatier skills, the student will receive an education in the arts of bread making, European pastry production and fine pâtisserie.
Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago is located in the downtown area. As of 2010, the total cost of obtaining this degree was $42,950.
The French Culinary Institute in New York City offers a very intensive pasty arts program. The program includes 600 hours of hands-on instruction. This instruction is given over a six-month period for day students, and a nine-month period for those attending at night. Besides the art of chocolate making, students will learn how to make classic pastry doughs, petit fours and cakes. Students will also receive training in the art of sugar decoration. As of February 2011, the cost of the program ranged from $34,800 to $42,550. Students will receive their Grand Diplôme upon graduation.
The Culinary School at the California Institute of Technology offers a baking and pastry specialist program at the school's Citrus Heights and Clovis campuses. In addition to learning about chocolate making, students will receive an education in the preparation of breads, cakes and other desserts. As of February 2011, a diploma for completing the baking and pastry specialist program will cost a student less than $20,000. This cost includes the student's culinary tool kit.
Located in New York City and associated with the French Culinary Institute, the ICC recreational division offers a 15-hour course on chocolate desserts. The course is presented across three evening sessions and offers instruction on a range of chocolate-based creations, including crêpes, soufflés and cakes as well as various decorations and garnishes, such as chocolate curls, ribbons and cigarettes.
As of February 2011, the cost of this course was $785, which includes a uniform and a tool kit. No degree is awarded for the completion of this course.