You'll learn to make a variety of sweet treats in pastry school.
Cakes, cookies, pies, tarts and candies are popular with people of all ages. Pastry schools let aspiring bakers use their creativity while perfecting the skills needed to make delicious, visually appealing desserts. There are a number of pastry programs across the country that offer the training you need to be successful.
French Culinary Institute
The French Culinary Institute (frenchculinary.com) has locations in New York and California. The classic pastry arts program includes more than 500 hours of hands-on training along with 60 hours of theory. The program covers the fundamental science, techniques and precision of baking cakes, tarts, cookies, chocolate desserts and other pastries. Upon completion, you'll receive a diploma and food protection certification. As of March 2011, tuition for the six-month program is $43,500.
Le Cordon Bleu
The patisserie and baking certificate and associate degree program at Le Cordon Bleu (cordonbleu.edu) is offered at 16 locations across the U.S. The program, which is more than 100 years old and run by trained chefs, covers basic baking skills through both classroom and hands-on learning. You'll learn to create sugar showpieces, artisan breads and classic European pastries. As of 2011, the cost is $20,000 to $40,000 depending on the location and program type.
Institute of Culinary Education
The Institute of Culinary Education (iceculinary.com) in New York offers a pastry and baking arts diploma. Created by Chef Nick Malgieri, the program aims to develop the five skills he thinks a successful baker or pastry chef needs. The skills include baking/pastry theory, baking/pastry techniques, palate training, teamwork and speed. ICE's program includes more than 600 hours of training in baking breads, cookie and cake decorating, creating confections and working with sugar and chocolate.
Johnson and Wales University
With locations in Providence, Rhode Island, Miami, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Denver, Johnson and Wales (jwu.edu) is home to the International Baking and Pastry Institute. The school offers associate and bachelor's degrees as well as a culinary nutrition program, which has been accredited by the American Dietetic Association. Advanced baking technologies help students accelerate their education on make delectable breads, cakes, cookies, pies and confections and create 3-D baked masterpieces. As of 2011, tuition is $23,955.
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