Le Cordon Bleu - College of Culinary Arts

Introduction to Le Cordon Bleu - College of Culinary Arts

As the world's largest hospitality education institution, Le Cordon Bleu has a global presence in 20 countries. The name came from French culinary magazine La Cuisiniere Cordon Bleu, which offered lessons from some of France's best chefs.

By 1895, the lessons proved so popular that it opened a cooking school in Paris. Today, Le Cordon Bleu has international recognition as one of the most prestigious culinary arts schools, whether in Bangkok, Sydney, Tokyo, Ottawa, Seoul, London or elsewhere. In the U.S., there are 14 branches through a partnership with the Career Education Corporation.

Student Life at Le Cordon Bleu

At any given time, there are more than 18,000 students studying at one of the Le Cordon Bleu schools around the world. Students choose to study culinary arts or hospitality management education.

Class offerings depend on local demand, with the exception of the "classic cycle." This is a series of six ten-week classes including three on cuisine and three on pastry making. If the student successfully completes the class, he can go on to basic, intermediate or advanced levels. The classes become progressively more difficult as students learn and practice cooking skills.

FAQs on Le Cordon Bleu - College of Culinary Arts

What is the Accreditation Status of Le Cordon Bleu?

Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts is partnered with several organizations, like the International Association of Culinary Professionals that allows the school to operate in the U.S.

What Are Some Requirements for Admission to Le Cordon Bleu?

To apply to Le Cordon Bleu, students need to choose the class programs they wish to take. The programs require students to have graduated from high school and complete the admissions application form.

Can I Receive Financial Aid from Le Cordon Bleu?

Le Cordon Bleu costs a set amount per class, with students working toward completing a degree or certificate. Students abroad may have trouble finding financial aid if they are not citizens of the particular country for which the program takes place.

U.S. students should fill out a FAFSA application for government loans. Cordon Bleu collaborates with the James Beard Foundation, which awards scholarships to culinary students in America.

What Are Some Career Options for Those Who Graduate From Le Cordon Bleu?

Besides becoming chefs, students who graduate from Le Cordon Bleu go on to careers as caterers, food service providers and restaurant managers. Students who are able to complete all three levels in the same field of cooking receive the Diplôme de Cuisine or the Diplôme de Pâtisserie.

Students who are able to complete all six classes earn the Grand Diplôme -- a culinary credential that states the chef has mastered both pastry and cuisine fundamentals. Le Cordon Bleu also offers hospitality management education in the form of bachelor's and master's degrees, as well as degrees in restaurant management.