If you have a minimum of 3 years of cooking experience in fine dining establishments, advanced placement (AP) can be your fast track to a coveted culinary arts degree from NECI.

Depending on your level of experience, our AP program allows you to complete your culinary degree within one year, with only one six-month residency period in Vermont. You will need to successfully pass our AP written and practical exam to enter this program.

If you want to refine your present culinary skills with classical technique and broaden your knowledge of food - there is no substitute for culinary school. In one year, you'll earn an associate's degree that can be an important credential on a resume, as well as a foundation of further education. Furthermore, NECI maintains connections with top national restaurants as well as restaurants around the world, and can help you get a foot in the door of the very top echelon of the industry. A year at NECI can take you places you might never get to otherwise.

What is required to enter the AP program?
We look for three to five years of fine dining experience for advanced placement candidates. You'll need to pass a written and practical exam to be admitted.

What are the benefits of the AP program?
Successful applicants to the program will be able to waive most of the first residency and internship, allowing you to enter the second year of the program. You'll be able to earn your associate's degree in as little as one year, with a minimum six months of residency on campus and a 700-hour paid internship.

What is tested on the AP exam?
The written exam covers general culinary knowledge, including preparation of soups and sauces, vegetable cuts, culinary terminology, weights and measurements, food costing, portion control, cooking methods, food chemistry, culinary history, basic baking terminology and procedures, as well as meat and fish cookery. There is also a practical exam testing your knowledge of classical cooking techniques.

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Do I have to come to Vermont to take the exam?
Under certain circumstances, we may be able to arrange for you to take the exam near your current location. Talk to your admissions representative for more information.

What happens if I don't pass the exam?
Many candidates take but do not pass the AP exam. Some of these may have most of the necessary skills to enter the AP program. NECI offers an individualized learning plan that can address the skills you still need.

Why should I go to school if I am already in the industry?
If you have worked under several different chefs, you may have experienced the frustration of learning the "how" but not the "why" of the kitchen. If you want to expand your knowledge while getting a solid foundation in the classic fundamentals of the craft, there is no substitute for culinary school. In one year, you'll also earn an accredited associate's degree that can be an important credential on a resume, as well as a foundation of further education. Culinary degrees are increasingly required for management positions and even entry level positions at top restaurants. Furthermore, NECI maintains connections with top national restaurants as well as restaurants around the world, and can help you get a foot in the door of the very top echelon of the industry. A year at NECI can take you places you might never get to otherwise.


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