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New Culinary Arts Degree Coming This Fall

Beginning with the Fall 2021 semester, the Pennsylvania Highlands Community College Somerset Center will be adding a Culinary Arts program to its diverse list of academic offerings.

Culinary Arts (A.A.S.) is an associate degree program that prepares students for entry-level and management positions in the food service industry. The curriculum offers a foundation in general business management with a focus on culinary skills, including baking and pastry.

“Culinary Arts was offered in response to local needs in hospitality,” stated Robert Farinelli, Vice President of Academic Affairs. “It is built to appeal to both students new to culinary, as well as to those who may have some previous experience. Classes will be offered in the late afternoon/early evening hours during the week.”

In addition to classroom and food laboratory experience, students are required to complete a supervised internship with cooperating local resorts, restaurants, and food service facilities. Course work is supplemented by practical experience arranged through these internships. Each student is expected to complete an internship of 405 hours.

“The Culinary Arts degree program was developed with the assistance of the staff at the Somerset County Career and Technology Center,” added Farinelli. “We are very excited to work with them on this new opportunity for the region. This is a strong partnership that will only grow.”

Culinary Arts and fall classes in Somerset start August 23rd. Registration is now open.