Contact Information
Program Requirements
Typical Program
Degree/Certificate: Certificate
HEGIS Code: 5404
SUNY Code: 4029
Major Code: BAKE
The Career
New York State and the U.S. Department of Labor project the need for qualified bakers will double in the next five to 10 years. Locally, research indicates that 75 percent of the chefs in Western New York would employ graduates of a program such as SUNY Niagara’s Baking and Pastry Arts program.
Upon completion of the two-semester program, the graduate will be qualified for employment in entry-level positions or higher as a baker, assistant baker or assistant pastry chef.
The SUNY Niagara Approach
Classes are taught in state-of-the-art kitchen facilities at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute. The program will combine both classroom learning as well as laboratories.
The faculty at SUNY Niagara are all certified by the American Culinary Federation and have worked in various facilities such as the Hyatt, Hilton and Radisson hotels as well as various private clubs in Western New York. They are graduates of such institutions as Johnson and Wales, State University of New York at Buffalo and the Culinary Institute of America. SUNY Niagara believes in employing instructors with the highest degree of education as well as work experience in order to enhance the student’s learning experience.
Students wishing to attain an associate degree may do so by continuing study in the Associate in Applied Science Pastry Arts program or the Associate in Applied Science Individual Studies program.
SUNY Niagara provides both academic and personal support to students at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute comparable to those available at the Main Campus. In addition to the basic skills courses, students are able to improve their skills by receiving assistance in the library resource area, which can be configured as a site to accommodate alternative testing arrangements for individual students as needed. Academic counseling is available from the student’s faculty member and student services staff who can help students clarify their personal and academic goals, identify behavioral and social obstacles, and explore available resources for achieving their goals.
The Baking and Pastry Arts program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation, Inc., 180 Center Place Way, St. Augustine, FL 32095, (800) 624-9458.
Admission
Students admitted in fall and spring.
Program Goals and Objectives
- To provide students with the basic knowledge of baking and pastry techniques that will prepare them for employment
- To learn how to work in a safe and sanitary environment for food preparation and service
Program Learning Outcomes
At the completion of this program, students will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of kitchen etiquette and professionalism
- Apply proper sanitation and safety techniques while demonstrating proper knife handling and care for equipment
- Apply purchasing principles to the operation of a bakery, and/or pastry shop
- Demonstrate baking theory and principles in the production of quality desserts
- Demonstrate an understanding of baking and pastry foundations
- Differentiate between the many types of classical pastries
