Culinary Arts

Virginia Western is one of only a few community colleges in Virginia with culinary arts degrees. We opened our three state-of-the-art kitchens in 2018. The Al Pollard Culinary Arts Program offers the following degrees: an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Culinary Arts and an AAS in Culinary Arts: Baking Specialization. Students may also pursue Career Studies Certificates available in four areas of study. 

The Culinary Arts Program not only teaches students how to cook, but also how to be a professional. The program runs like a restaurant, intertwining cooking techniques with professional skills to give students real-world knowledge of what to expect in the culinary industry.  

The program consists of both lecture and hands-on lab classes. Our kitchen facilities allow us to lecture in the labs, as well as cook. 

Why choose Virginia Western’s Culinary Arts program? 

• We are accredited by the American Culinary Federation. This means students, upon successful program completion, automatically receive an ACF certification credential. ACF meetings are held monthly for interested students.
• The classes are taught by skilled and certified industry professionals. 
• There is ample opportunity for employment. Graduates have found employment locally at places such as Carilion Clinic, Center Stage Catering, Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, The Hatch, and The Village Grill.
• You will earn your ServSafe Food Manager and ServSafe Alcohol certifications. 

Related Programs

• Culinary Arts: Baking Specialization (Associate of Applied Science)
• Management: Hospitality Management Specialization (Associate of Applied Science)
• Culinary Arts: Baking & Pastry (Career Studies Certificate)
• Culinary Arts: Cake Production & Decorating (Career Studies Certificate)
• Culinary Arts: Introduction to Foodservice (Career Studies Certificate)
• Culinary Arts: Advanced Foodservice (Career Studies Certificate)
• Hospitality Management (Career Studies Certificate)

Mandatory Cutlery and Uniform Requirements

• Two (2) full uniforms, if taking more than one lab (if only taking 1 lab, 1 uniform is sufficient, so long as it is kept clean), consisting of: Chef Jacket with school logo and your name embroidered on it; black & white checkered pants; neckerchief; neckerchief slide; white apron; white baker's cap; black hard-style non-skid shoes with closed heel and toe (sneakers/tennis shoes/soft cloth shoes will NOT be permitted). Cutlery and uniform purchasing requirements (PDF)
• In accordance with the Virginia Health Code 12VAC5-421-200 (Prohibition of jewelry) and ACFEF Standard 5.11, there will be no jewelry of any kind (to include medical information jewelry) permitted in the classrooms or labs, with the exception of a plain, metal band.

Mission & Goals

The mission of the Al Pollard Culinary Arts Program at Virginia Western is to:

• Equip the students with the needed skills to enter into the culinary industry.
• Prepare the students to be professionals at all times.
• Create lasting relationships with local businesses and citizens of the Roanoke Region, to promote economic vitality of the area.

The mission can be achieved through adherence to the following goals:

• Teaching professionalism daily; leading by example.
• Creating partnerships with local, charitable organizations, to give students opportunity to hone skills.
• Teaching the demands of the food service industry in a realistic manner.
• Commitment to upholding the high standards of the food service industry.
• Creating an atmosphere conducive to learning.
• Encourage students to continue their education.
• Garnering mutual respect.

Accreditation & Program Credentials

This program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation.

Completion of the Associate of Applied Science degree satisfies the American Culinary Federation eligibility requirements for both Certified Culinarian (CC) and Certified Pastry Culinarian (CPC) designations. Visit the American Culinary Federation website for further information.

Graduation Rates (PDF)  |  Employment & Certification Rates (PDF) | Estimated Expenses

Credit for Prior Learning

Our Credit for Prior Learning Program may award college credit for college-level skills and knowledge gained outside of a college classroom. Examples of Credit for Prior Learning include:

• Certifications and licensures
• Military and law enforcement training
• Work-based learning
• National or institutional examinations
• Workforce training

Click here to learn more about Credit for Prior Learning.