Western Carolina University Western Carolina University's acclaimed cooking school provides students with the opportunity to hone their culinary skills and become master chefs.

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Western Carolina University offers a wide range of cooking classes that can help students develop their culinary skills. Through its Department of Nutrition, Food and Exercise Science, WCU offers courses that provide knowledge of basic food preparation techniques, nutrition science and food safety. The goal is to equip students with the skills necessary to work in the culinary industry as a professional, including food service management.

WCU's culinary program is designed to provide a strong foundation in food science and nutrition, while also challenging students to explore the creative possibilities of a restaurant-style kitchen. Courses focus on the use of fresh ingredients and cooking methods that emphasize nutrition. Students learn about menu design, hospitality management, and food production and service systems. They also gain a thorough understanding of nutrition, food safety and sanitation, as well as the history, culture, and economic foundations of food processing and service.

In addition to traditional classroom instruction, WCU also offers hands-on culinary training. Coursework includes developing recipes and working in the university's restaurant-style kitchen. The kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line commercial equipment and inventory, so students learn in a professional environment.

WCU's cooking education also emphasizes the importance of sustainability, which is integrated into the university's curriculum. For example, the university seeks to promote sustainable food sourcing, packaging and preparation. Additionally, students learn to support local farmers by understanding their practices and how those practices impact the environment.

By studying at WCU, students will gain the skills needed to work in the culinary field, including important knowledge about nutrition, food safety and sanitation. Students will also obtain a strong foundation for a career in the food service industry, such as becoming a chef, front-of-house manager or food and beverage director. With a WCU degree in cooking education, students will be well-equipped to take on job opportunities in the culinary industry.