Food is yourPassion.
The World’s Premier Culinary College
Food is yourcalling—and it all starts here.
Food is connected to everything we do at the Culinary Institute of America. Here, within an immersive college environment, you’ll experience a first-class culinary education that opens doors to a world of possibility and helps you discover how to create an impactful future in food.
Expert faculty instruction from top industry professionals
Real-world experience working in award-winning, public-service restaurants
Industry’s Best Career Fair: three times a year, 150+ of the very best restaurant and hospitality companies visit our New York campus
Ability to customize your degree to fit your specific interests and career goals
Home of Netflix’sNext Gen Chef
As the global leader in culinary education, CIA was the perfect starting place for a competition to find the leading chef of the next generation. Learn more about faculty and alumni appearing on the show.
Food is yourjourney. Find the path that’s right for you.
Undergraduate Degrees
Are you ready for an exciting and meaningful future in food? We offer a variety of associate and bachelor’s degree programs that will prepare you with the skills, knowledge, and expertise to succeed in the career of your choosing.
Graduate Degrees
CIA School of Graduate and Professional Studies offers a variety of online programs designed to help professionals advance their careers and prepare for the emerging needs of the dynamic food and hospitality industry.
Student Life
Food is yourcommunity!
Thrive outside of the kitchen and connect with others on campus.
Discover all that CIA has to offer beyond the classroom with our full array of athletics, activities, student services, and delicious dining options. From open mic nights and interactive student groups to off-campus adventures and friendly campus cook-offs, we have countless ways to get involved and meet new people. Did we mention every dorm has a full-sized kitchen?
Don’t Take Our Word for It:
Here’s What CIA Students Have to Say
Don’t Take Our Word for It:
Here’s What CIA Students Have to Say
What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
Why did you choose your major?
Why did you choose the Culinary Institute of America?
Plan Your CIA Visit
Interested in learning more about the #OnlyAtCIA experience? Not sure which degree program is right for you? Consider attending one of our admissions events!
Open Houses
Learn more about our academic programs, ask questions, and explore the campus. We offer open houses throughout the year for high school seniors and adult and transfer students.
Campus Tours
There isn’t anything better than seeing our beautiful, campuses in person. Explore our kitchens and bake shops, residence halls, rec center, library, and some of our many,many dining choices. You’ll see it all.
Online Open Houses
Prefer to visit our campus virtually? No problem. Our online open houses allow you to learn more about CIA from the comfort of your home. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
#1 Best Culinary School in America—Ranked by Several Leading Organizations
#1 Best Culinary School in America
College Rank
#1 Best Culinary School in America
HospitalityManagementDegrees.net
#1 Best Culinary School in the U.S.
Best Choice Schools
#1 Best Culinary Arts Bachelor’s Degree School
College Factual
#1 Best Personal and Culinary Services Bachelor’s Degree School
College Factual
#1 Best Culinary Arts Associate Degree School
College Factual
#1 Best Personal and Culinary Services Associate Degree School
College Factual
4
Locations Worldwide
CIA has campuses in New York, California, Texas, and Singapore.
2K+
Internships Around the World
Learn alongside expert mentors who will help prepare you for a future in food and hospitality.
90%
Percentage of Students Receiving Scholarships and Financial Aid
We’ll help you navigate the financial aid process so that you can invest in your future.
55K+
CIA Alumni Around the World
Our strong alumni network provides unparalleled support and meaningful industry connections.
Helpful Resources
Admissions
Interested in learning more about our academic programs? We’re ready to help and provide you with more information.
Ask a Student
What’s it really like to study at CIA? Our students will answer any questions you may have—including ones about their favorite activities and spots to eat.
How to Apply
Learn more about the application process, deadlines, and our enrollment schedule.
CIA Alumni
They’re not only accomplished chefs—they’re influential leaders in the food world.
“I was taking the tour and looking through the glass at CIA students in the bakeshops and kitchens. I got tears in my eyes envisioning myself in those kitchens and seeing the potential that they held for me.”
“I fell in love day one. Everyone who goes to the school has one common goal and passion, and you’re learning from the best.”
“The scientific process that you learn in this degree is second to none. You get very well prepared in the program here.”
“The faculty truly is the most valuable aspect of the Applied Food Studies program.”
CIA News
Next Generation at the Culinary Institute of America is Next-Level
Although the Netflix series Next Gen Chef packed up it’s knives in September, the next generation of chefs at CIA still compete every day.
CIA Inducts Inaugural Alumni Hall of Fame Class
Twenty-one distinguished CIA alumni were inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame, honoring their lasting impact as chefs, entrepreneurs, authors, and educators.
Downtown Napa: Top Things to Do, Eat, and Explore
Foodies and wannabe chefs won’t want to miss heading to CIA at Copia, the ultimate destination for food-related happenings and exhibits.