Being a top chef goes beyond loving food. It’s about appreciating the soil and sunshine, how food is grown and what it takes to run a business. It means taking creative risks and constantly adapting. If this is the career of which you’ve been dreaming, start creating now in Loyalist’s on-campus gourmet restaurant, Resto 213.
Visit the Resto 213 website
This program will be delivered in-person for the Winter semester. For more information, please visit our Winter 2022 Program Delivery page.
Find your career
There’s no life like the one of a chef and the opportunities are limitless.
• Culinary Management graduates are prepared to work as cooks and apprentices in their choice of establishment around the world.
• Opening a restaurant is a high-risk venture. A diploma from Loyalist will prepare you to pursue your dreams with solid skills in culinary technique, marketing and leadership.
• Diploma graduates complete the in-class requirements for apprenticeship training.
• Following completion of on-the-job apprenticeship outcomes, graduates are qualified to write the exam for Interprovincial Red Seal Certification — an internationally recognized standard of quality.
Our grads get great jobs
- Cook, Chateau Whistler
- Baker, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
- Cook, Blue Hill at Stone Barns, New York
- Sous Chef, Siwash Lake Wilderness Lake Resort, Whistler
- Cook Eigensinn Farm, Singhampton
- Cook, The Drake Devonshire Inn, Prince Edward County
- Sous Chef, Le Club Chasse et Pêche, Montréal
- Cook, Blumen Bistro, Picton
- Chef de Partie, Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen, UK
- Cook, Raymond's, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Cook, Rocky Mountain Resort, Banff, Alberta
Is it for you?
Do you have what it takes? You can succeed in this field if you are:
- Passionate about food
- Willing to take creative risks
- Skilled at time management
- Excellent under pressure in a fast-paced environment
What employers say
“The Canadian National Chef’s Congress was hosted by Chef Michael Stadtländer at Eigensinn Farm. Only three colleges were invited and Loyalist students stood out for their work ethic and professionalism. For three days solid, Loyalist students played a major role in making one of Canada’s most important culinary events ever come together. I am extremely grateful and totally impressed by their hard work and dedication.” - Chef Jason McColl Sous-Chef, Blümen Garden Bistro
Experiential learning
Create and innovate under the guidance of distinguished chefs with a rich appreciation of farm-to-table cuisine.
- Work in the kitchen and dining room of Resto 213, Loyalist’s on-campus student-run gourmet restaurant.
- Earn first-hand experience in all aspects of culinary management — from hosting and service, food preparation, pricing and menu design, to developing marketing strategies.
- Students also prepare food for the Loyalist Market, a retail outlet offering an amazing variety of fresh and frozen products designed and created by Culinary students.
- Optional field trips provide invaluable experience in food and culture. Recent destinations include New York City, Paris, Switzerland and Portugal.
- Receive individual attention from licensed chefs and Red Seal pastry chefs.
Outstanding faculty make the difference
- Faculty have a tremendous depth and breadth of experience, working in environments ranging from the Chateau Lake Louise to the Royal York Hotel, Auberge du Pommier and Rosewater in Toronto.
- The faculty team works closely with its advisory committee and industry partners to ensure that the program is aligned with industry demands and trends. The curriculum is delivered in ways that meet the learner's diverse needs.
- First Year - Semester One
- PROF1026 Career Preparation
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Students learn the most effective way to search for fulfilling employment. Using expert advice from professionals, students are introduced to job search skills, résumés, application and interview techniques, portfolios and dress codes.
- MATH1049 Culinary Math
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Students gain an understanding of the basic mathematic skills required in culinary applications such as scaling recipes, calculating costs, inventory and measurement as well as basic MS Excel software spreadsheet use.
- CULN1005 Culinary Techniques 1
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This course lays the foundation for students pursuing a career in culinary management. In this hands-on lab students will be involved in the preparation and presentation of the fundamentals of cooking essentials.
- CULN1007 Culinary Techniques a la Carte 1
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This course exposes students to experiential learning through the practical application of Culinary Techniques in a fully operational dining room and take-out style food service operation. Upon successful completion of this course, the graduate will be prepared to accept an entry-level position in a professional kitchen or continue their post-secondary studies in Culinary Management.
- FOOD1017 Food Theory 1
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Extensive knowledge is required to function efficiently in a food and beverage operation. This course provides a working knowledge of basic food theory and basic professional baking fundamentals in preparation for the practical application of culinary techniques.
- CULN1004 Orientation and Safety Training
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In preparation for their hands-on learning experiences in the Loyalist kitchen and Resto 213, students receive certification in Safe Food Handling, Smart Serve and First Aid. Additionally, they receive training on the standard operating procedures of various pieces of kitchen equipment, basic knife skills, front of house service, conflict resolution and workplace wellness.
- FOOD1016 Techniques of Baking 1
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The art of baking is an essential part of the development of a chef. In this class, students practise a wide variety of baking techniques in a hands-on environment.
- First Year - Semester Two
- CULN1002 Culinary Techniques 2
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Building on the skills acquired in basic culinary techniques, students will continue to develop and refine abilities in a hands-on lab environment.
Prerequisite: CULN 1000 or HOSP 1020 or CULN 1005
- CULN1003 Culinary Techniques a la Carte 2
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Students learn the practical application of culinary techniques in a fully operational dining room and a take-out style food-service enterprise.
Prerequisite: CULN 1001 or HOSP 1040 or CULN 1007
- FOOD1012 Food Theory 2
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Building on the skills gained in Basic Food & Bake Theory and Practical courses, this course further develops the students’ knowledge of principles and practices relating to the production and presentation of food.
Prerequisite: FOOD 1009 or FOOD 1017
- FOOD1011 Menu Planning
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Students practice planning, writing and costing for various types of menus from the sales, dietetic and cost points of view.
- FOOD1013 Techniques of Baking 2
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Building on the skills acquired in basic baking, students will continue to develop and refine abilities in a hands-on lab environment.
Prerequisite: FOOD 1007 or HOSP 1019 or FOOD 1016
- GNED General Education Elective
- General Education Courses
- Second Year - Semester Three
- Second Year - Semester Four
- FOOD2010 Advanced Gastronomy
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Preparation and presentation of high quality, high end culinary items for à la carte, buffet and banquet kitchens such as charcuterie (including sausage making, pates and terrines), hors d’oeurves and canapés, whole animal breakdown, alternative starches and more.
Prerequisite: FOOD 2008 or HOSP 2017 or FOOD 2011
- CULN2001 Culinary Business 2
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The appeal of owning a business and “being my own boss” has some serious appeal! However, opening a business is tough work, competition is stiff and effective planning is essential. In this course, students will build a basic business and marketing plan for a food service operation that will culminate in “Dragons' Den” style pitches. *Note: students have the option to present privately to the instructor or publicly in front of the class.
- FOOD2012 Food and Beverage Practical 2
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Building on the skills acquired in Food and Beverage 1, students supervise, prepare, serve and sell a variety of hot and cold appetizers, entrées and desserts in a fully operational 65-seat licensed dining room.
Prerequisite: FOOD 2011
- HOSP1007 Wine & Beverage Appreciation
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Students gain an appreciation of wines, spirits and beer. The learner will explore wine making, grape varieties, pairing wine and beer with food, as well as wine, spirit and beer production service and sales.
- GNED General Education Elective
- General Education Courses
*Courses subject to change.
Turn your diploma into a degree
Many universities across Canada and abroad will provide credit recognition for your diploma studies at Loyalist College. The following is a list of agreements that are currently in place. There are many more options, and new agreements are added annually. Contact your university of choice to make individual arrangements. Click here for more information about university transfer agreements.
Two-year diploma
- Algoma Unviersity – B.A.; B.B.A.; B.Sc.; Bach. Computer Science
- Algonquin College – B.A. in Hospitality & Tourism Management
- Brock University – various*
- Davenport University – B.A. Management or B.B.A./M.B.A. Strategic Management
- Holland College – Applied Degree in Culinary Operations
- Institute of Technology Tralee – Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts (Year 3)
- Lakehead University – various*
- Laurentian University – various*
- Limerick Institute of Technology – Bachelor of Arts in Business Studies with Travel and Tourism Management
- Nipissing University – various*
- Queen's University – various*
- Ryerson University – various*
- Seneca College – Bach. Interdisciplinary Studies
- Ontario Tech University – various*
- University of Waterloo – various*
- Wilfrid Laurier University – various*
- York University – various*
* Various potential degree pathways. Please confirm details with the receiving institution.
Study Abroad
Explore opportunities to continue your studies in Ireland:
How much will it cost?
Approximate costs (2021 – 22)
- Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08
- Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,462
- Total: $4,184.08
Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.
*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.
Bursaries and financial assistance
Loyalist College has a number of scholarships, bursaries and academic awards available to students. Our Financial Services Office can help you explore your options, or assist you with a student loan.
Admission requirements
Required academic preparation
- OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U) or (M) level, AND
- Grade 12 English (C) level or equivalent
OR
Recommended academic preparation
Advanced standing
- OYAP Cook Level 1 graduates with an overall B average are eligible for direct entry to semester two.
- Individuals who have attained the Interprovincial Red Seal for Cooks will be granted full credit for year one and are eligible for direct entry to year two of the diploma program.
- Applicants with prior learning or significant related experience may be eligible for advanced standing through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition.
Prior learning assessment and recognition
Applicants with work experiences or other types of non-credentialed learning may be eligible for credits at Loyalist. Graded credits (as opposed to exemptions) are granted. Click here for more information about our assessment and credit challenge process.
Experience with the Canadian Forces
Loyalist’s Culinary programs are recognized by the Canadian Forces:
- Culinary Skills students can participate in the Subsidized Education Program.
- Culinary Management students have the opportunity to receive advanced standing as a Cook (Apprentice).
- Visit forces.ca for details.
International students
Click here for information about how to apply, international student fees and more.
Campus News
LOYALIST COLLEGE ADDS SEVERAL DEGREE PROGRAMS THROUGH THE INSTITUTE OF...
Belleville, Ontario, May 31, 2018 – Graduates of six Loyalist College two- and three-year diploma programs now have the opportunity to earn a degree at the Institute of Technology Tralee, Ireland, ... Read More
LOYALIST COLLEGE TO OFFER DEGREE PROGRAMS THROUGH LIMERICK INSTITUTE O...
Belleville, Ontario, May 4, 2018 – Graduates of numerous Loyalist College two- and three-year diploma programs now have the opportunity to earn a degree in as little as one academic year through ad... Read More
Loyalist College to Host 14th Annual Junior Iron Chef Competition, Mar...
Loyalist College is pleased to invite members of the community to the 14th annual Junior Iron Chef Competition on Saturday, March 7. Spectators will watch a live feed of the student competitors in the... Read More
St. Peter Catholic Secondary School Wins Junior Iron Chef Competition
Belleville, March 1, 2014 – Loyalist College is pleased to announce that St. Peter Catholic Secondary School of Peterborough won the title of Junior Iron Chef at the 13th Annual Competition on March... Read More
Loyalist College to Host 13th Annual Junior Iron Chef Competition, Mar...
Loyalist College is pleased to invite members of the community to the annual Junior Iron Chef Competition on Saturday, March 1st. It will take place in the Dining Hall of the Kente Building. Organized... Read More
In the News
County Live
Chef Albert Ponzo is putting his cooking skills to good use by ensuring people in Prince Edward Coun
Belleville Intelligencer
Belleville Intelligencer
Belleville Intelligencer
2015 Culinary grad Dakk Sutthajaidee has all the ingredients to serve his new country
Read story here.
Loyalist students get first-hand experience in all aspects of restaurant management – hosting and service, food preparation, pricing and menu design, developing a business plan, and marketing strategy – at our on-campus gourmet restaurant, Resto 213.
See resto213.com
