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Adult Learners
Build on your experience!
No Fee November! Apply now on our website and we’ll waive your application fee.
Advance or Start Your Food Career Here
Food is Your Opportunity
Advance or Start Your Food Career Here
Whether you’re a food professional or have always dreamed of becoming one, you’re in the right place! Our student community is enriched by people just like you, from all walks of life, who want to transform their passion for food into career growth. That’s why CIA has degree or certificate options tailored to your experience and goals.
No matter which program you choose you will:
- Broaden your professional expertise and make invaluable industry contacts.
- Learn directly from CIA’s world-class faculty—renowned experts in food, hospitality, and academics.
- Meet and interview with leading food and hospitality companies at amazing on-campus career fairs.
- Engage in global networking opportunities as one of our more than 50,000+ successful alumni.
Bachelor’s and Associate Degrees
Whatever your background or goal in the food world, CIA has a degree that can help you succeed. Our bachelor’s and associate degree programs will get you there. It’s time to fire up your future.
Bachelor’s Completion Program
Especially for students with 30+ college credits, this program immerses you in our kitchens or bakeshops. Finish your degree with hands-on learning and then put it to work in the food industry.
Master’s Programs
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, CIA’s School of Graduate Studies has a range of options for busy professionals. With our uniquely food-focused master’s programs, you’ll be prepared to create meaningful change in a range of industry sectors.
Work Experience Credit
Get college credit for your real-world work experience with our Turbo option. Get your associate degree in culinary arts or baking and pastry arts in as little as 15 months!
Financial Aid and Scholarships
It’s time to invest in your future. CIA is here to help you get the education you deserve. Unlike many other colleges, CIA transfer students are eligible for the same scholarships and aid opportunities as first-time freshmen.
Vibrant Student Life
At CIA, you’ll find all the ingredients you need to create a college experience that’s uniquely yours. Welcome to a campus community that shares your passion!
Application Process
Applying to CIA
- Check out the enrollment dates for the program you’re interested in and apply for admission. CIA enrolls students three times a year, so you can start when it’s best for you.
- File your FAFSA to determine your financial aid opportunities. This way, you’ll be reviewed for scholarships and financial aid immediately.
Benefits and Opportunities
Scholarships
CIA offers generous scholarships—and awarded over $40 million last year alone.
Built-in, Paid Internship
World-class paid internships at one of 2,000+ CIA-approved organizations.
Industry’s Best Career Fair
Nearly 475 food and hospitality companies visited CIA looking to hire in 2023—resulting in over 4,000 reported interviews with highly interested employers.
Unrivaled Network
The food world’s most powerful alumni network—50k+ strong—that not only hire CIA grads, but also help make the connections to advance careers.
Bachelor’s Degree Completion
Especially for students with 30+ college credits, this program immerses you in our kitchens or bakeshops.
CIA Turbo Option
Gain college credit for your prior food industry experience and you could have your degree in as little as 15 months.
Transfer Credits
Save time and money by transferring college credits to CIA.
Real-World Experience
Spend a full semester getting hands-on experience in our nine award-winning public service restaurants.
Connect with someone now
Chat With an Adult Student
Are you curious about what it’s really like to attend CIA? We’ve got you covered. Our students are ready to answer the questions you haven’t asked anyone else, share their own personal experiences, and give you genuine advice—because they’ve gone through it, too.
CIA Campuses
Be part of a vibrant campus and close-knit community, where everyone speaks your language—food.
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?
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