Some schools, such as the Culinary Institute of America, offer programs through which a chef may demonstrate his or her knowledge and skills and be given certification. Others, such as Baltimore International College, Stratford University, or Johnson and Wales University, offer programs whereby students gain either an Associate's or Bachelor's degree.

The 'culinary arts profession is made up of people who work either directly or indirectly in the preparation and service of food items in the public or private sector. They work in a range of establishments including, but not limited to hotels, full-service restaurants, private clubs, corporate dining, institutional catering, caterers, and home meal replacement (carry-out). With the increased demands of the consumers for nutrition, quality, sophistication in all parts of the culinary industry, today's culinary professional needs to be well trained and prepared to meet the consumers demands