Culinary Skills Program (H134)
Program Description
Program Overview
Get ready for a career as a cook or a chef with the one-year Culinary Skills certificate program. Learn the fundamentals of food preparation from professional chefs, explore a wide range of ingredients and discover the world of food culture.
Full Description
Learn the fundamentals of food preparation and develop your skills in our cooking labs, guided and supported by culinary faculty with the one-year Culinary Skills (H134) certificate program. Explore emerging and established culinary movements such as local, sustainable, nutrition-focused and international cuisines. This program will broaden your knowledge and give you the chef training you need to succeed in today’s food service industry.
Here are some of the skills you'll be able to show off after completing the Culinary Skills program:
- core cooking and baking skills
- appreciation for nutrition
- menu planning and food, beverage and labour cost control
- solid knife skills and cooking techniques gained through practice and repetition
Program Schedule
The Culinary Skills program operates from Monday to Friday. Some classes may begin at 7 a.m., and others may run until 10 p.m.
George Brown College Chef School Student Standards and Expectations
Note: George Brown College has adopted a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiative. As a result, we no longer have computer lab classrooms. For classes that require computers, students will need to bring their own laptops. Our Library Learning Commons offers open access computers as well as equipment that can be borrowed on a short-term basis. For more information, please contact The Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts at chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Graduates may qualify for direct entry to the second year of the Culinary Management diploma program. Please contact the program coordinator for further information.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Required Courses
Semester 1
Code | Course name |
---|---|
COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts* |
GSCI 1035 | Science of Sustainability |
HOSF 1002 | Baking and Pastry for Cooks** |
HOSF 1029 | Theory of Food I |
HOSF 1145 | Sanitation |
HOSF 1146 | Emergency First Aid/Heartsaver CPR (weekend course) |
HOSF 1184 | Café Production** |
HOSF 1185 | Fundamentals of Butchery** |
HOSF 1202 | Culinary Foundations** |
HOSF 1203 | Culinary Essentials** |
HOSF 1255 | Nutrition Fundamentals from a Culinary Perspective |
HOST 1068 | Smart Serve |
MATH 1200 | Culinary Math Essentials |
Semester 2
Code | Course name |
---|---|
HOSF 1031 | Theory of Food II |
HOSF 1166 | Foods of the World** |
HOSF 1204 | Culinary Principles** |
HOSF 1205 | Culinary Concepts** |
HOSF 1287 | WHMIS |
HOSF 1296 | Beverage and Service Fundamentals** |
HOSF 1297 | The Sustainable Chef** |
HOST 1005 | Food, Beverage and Labour Cost Control |
HOST 1126 | Career Preparation** |
*Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit our Assessment Centre for more information.
**seven-week courses
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Provide fundamental culinary preparation and presentation for a variety of food service environments using a range of classical and contemporary techniques.
- Apply basic food and bake science to food preparation to create the desired end product.
- Contribute to and monitor adherence of others to the provision of a well-maintained kitchen environment and to the service of food and beverage products that are free from harmful bacteria or other contaminants, adhering to health, safety, sanitation and food-handling regulations.
- Ensure the safe operation of the kitchen and all aspects of food preparation to promote healthy workspaces and the responsible, efficient use of resources.
- Support the development of menu options that reflect knowledge of nutrition and food ingredients, promote general health and well-being, respond to a range of nutritional needs and preferences, and address modifications for special diets, food allergies and intolerances, as required.
- Apply fundamental business principles and recognized industry costing and control practices to food service operations to promote a fiscally responsible operation.
- Apply basic knowledge of sustainability, ethical and local food sourcing, and food security to food preparation and kitchen management, recognizing the potential impacts on food production, consumer choice, and operations within the food service industry.
- Use technology, including contemporary kitchen equipment, for food production and promotion.
- Perform effectively as a food and beverage preparation and service team member and contribute to the success of a food service operation by applying self-management and interpersonal skills.
- Develop strategies for continuous personal and professional learning to ensure currency with and responsiveness to emerging culinary techniques, regulations, and practices in the food service industry.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† Additional Cost
Description | Cost |
---|---|
Small wares | $100–$300 |
Books | $400 |
Note: Semester 1 tuition fees include the cost of a culinary kit, safety shoes and Chef School uniform.
Please view the following for a detailed list of what is contained in the culinary kit:
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Health Policy
Students should be aware that various allergens including nuts, dairy and shellfish are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances. However, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to halal and kosher foods.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.
FINANCIAL/FEES
For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.
CULINARY SKILLS (H134)
For general Chef School inquiries, please contact CHCAStudentSupport@georgebrown.ca.
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Join us for an upcoming Open House Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.
Culinary Skills Program (H134)
Program Description
Program Overview
Get ready for a career as a cook or a chef with the one-year Culinary Skills certificate program. Learn the fundamentals of food preparation from professional chefs, explore a wide range of ingredients and discover the world of food culture.
Full Description
Learn the fundamentals of food preparation and develop your skills in our cooking labs, guided and supported by culinary faculty with the one-year Culinary Skills (H134) certificate program. Explore emerging and established culinary movements such as local, sustainable, nutrition-focused, and international cuisines. This program will broaden your knowledge and give you the chef training you need to succeed in today’s food service industry.
Here are some of the skills you'll be able to show off after completing the Culinary Skills program:
- core cooking and baking skills
- appreciation for nutrition
- menu planning and food, beverage and labour cost control
- solid knife skills and cooking techniques gained through practice and repetition
Program Schedule
The Culinary Skills program operates from Monday to Friday. Some classes may begin at 7 a.m., and others may run until 10 p.m.
George Brown College Chef School Student Standards and Expectations
Note: George Brown College has adopted a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiative. As a result, we no longer have computer lab classrooms. For classes that require computers, students will need to bring their own laptops. Our Library Learning Commons offers open access computers as well as equipment that can be borrowed on a short-term basis. For more information, please contact The Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts at chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Graduates may qualify for direct entry to the second year of the Culinary Management diploma program. Please contact the program coordinator for further information.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Latest alumni stories
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
Code | Course name |
---|---|
HOST1068 | Smart Serve |
HOSF1184 | Café Production* |
HOSF1185 | Fundamentals of Butchery* |
HOSF1255 | Nutrition Fundamentals from a Culinary Perspective |
HOSF1002 | Baking and Pastry for Cooks* |
HOSF1202 | Culinary Foundations* |
HOSF1203 | Culinary Essentials* |
HOSF1029 | Theory of Food I |
HOSF1145 | Sanitation |
HOSF1146 | Emergency First Aid/Heartsaver CPR (weekend course) |
MATH1200 | Culinary Math Essentials |
COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts** |
GSCI1035 | Science of Sustainability |
SEMESTER 2
Code | Course name |
---|---|
HOSF1287 | WHMIS |
HOSF1166 | Foods of the World* |
HOSF1204 | Culinary Principles* |
HOSF1205 | Culinary Concepts* |
HOSF1031 | Theory of Food II |
HOST1005 | Food, Beverage and Labour Cost Control (hybrid) |
HOSF1296 | Beverage and Service Fundamentals* |
HOSF1297 | The Sustainable Chef* |
HOST1126 | Career Preparation* |
* seven-week courses
** Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit our Assessment Centre for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Provide fundamental culinary preparation and presentation for a variety of food service environments using a range of classical and contemporary techniques.
- Apply basic food and bake science to food preparation to create the desired end product.
- Contribute to and monitor adherence of others to the provision of a well-maintained kitchen environment and to the service of food and beverage products that are free from harmful bacteria or other contaminants, adhering to health, safety, sanitation and food-handling regulations.
- Ensure the safe operation of the kitchen and all aspects of food preparation to promote healthy workspaces and the responsible, efficient use of resources.
- Support the development of menu options that reflect knowledge of nutrition and food ingredients, promote general health and well-being, respond to a range of nutritional needs and preferences, and address modifications for special diets, food allergies and intolerances, as required.
- Apply fundamental business principles and recognized industry costing and control practices to food service operations to promote a fiscally responsible operation.
- Apply basic knowledge of sustainability, ethical and local food sourcing, and food security to food preparation and kitchen management, recognizing the potential impacts on food production, consumer choice, and operations within the food service industry.
- Use technology, including contemporary kitchen equipment, for food production and promotion.
- Perform effectively as a food and beverage preparation and service team member and contribute to the success of a food service operation by applying self-management and interpersonal skills.
- Develop strategies for continuous personal and professional learning to ensure currency with and responsiveness to emerging culinary techniques, regulations, and practices in the food service industry.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
† Additional Cost
Description | Cost |
---|---|
Small wares | $100–$300 |
Books | $400 |
Note: Semester 1 tuition fees include the cost of a culinary kit, safety shoes, and Chef School uniform.
Please view the following for a detailed list of what is contained in the culinary kit:
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Health Policy
Students should be aware that various allergens including nuts, dairy and shellfish are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances. However, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to halal and kosher foods.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.
FINANCIAL/FEES
For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.
CULINARY SKILLS (H134)
For general Chef School inquiries, please contact CHCAStudentSupport@georgebrown.ca.
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.