Culinary Arts: Introduction to Foodservice

The Introduction to Foodservice Career Studies Certificate (CSC) program at Virginia Western will give you the professional skills necessary to obtain an entry-level position in the foodservice sector. 

What will you learn?  

The Introduction to Foodservice CSC program is designed to provide you with knowledge and hands-on experience in various aspects of food preparation and service, such as:  

• Applied nutrition for food service  
• Stock, soup, and sauce preparation  
• Baking and pastry  
• Sanitation and safety  
• Working with a sense of urgency  

What are the benefits?  

The Introduction to Foodservice CSC program will prepare you to enter the workforce at entry level in the following positions:  

• Prep and/or production cook  
• Dishwasher  
• Vegetable cook  

You will also have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials, such as ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, ServSafe Alcohol Safety Certification, and American Culinary Federation (ACF) membership. 

Claude Moore Kitchen Photo Gallery

Related Programs

• Culinary Arts (Associate of Applied Science)
• 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 & Decoration (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.

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.