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Pastry Chefs are currently making from $37,006 to $59,992 a year, Buffet Chefs between $39,832 and $55,676, Sous Chefs between $36,645 and $45,530 a year, and the highly educated and experienced Executive Chefs bring in from $62,376 to $97,545 on a national average (Source: Salary.com™, Jan. 2007).

But the career options don't stop there! The list for exciting careers in the culinary arts is a big one. Being a professional chef is just one of them, and many related chef jobs will lead to upscale and high-class establishments, ingredients, menus, and clientele. The following is what you can expect when you are on your way to reach the high-profile cuisine scene.

The good news: the number of culinary training programs and schools continues to increase to meet demand! Certificate and degree programs offer a greater selection of professional options like advanced cooking techniques; cooking for banquets, buffets, or parties; and cuisines and cooking styles from around the world. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2006)

Your culinary pursuits will invariably place you in small quarters against hot stoves and ovens. It's part of the zeitgeist of the culinary lifestyle, along with being under constant pressure to prepare meals quickly with infallible quality.

The U.S. Department of Labor describes the many paths a future chef can take in their culinary education. Vocational programs after high school, independent and professional chef schools, and college degree programs in the culinary or hospitality arts are all options for the aspiring chef. Most coursework is highly practical, as the majority of the students' time is spent in kitchens learning to handle food safely and properly use equipment. (Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition.)

There is more excitement than ever for a career in cooking and the culinary arts. Just use the links below to find schools in your area! Also, find some of our distance and online learning opportunities here!