Online Culinary School Available in New York City
Earn your culinary degree or diploma while studying from home while living in New York City.* Enhance your skills with an in-person industry externship in a professional kitchen. Financial aid is available for qualifying applicants.
*Escoffier’s online diploma and degree culinary programs are available through Escoffier’s Boulder, CO campus.
Study the Culinary Arts with the Convenience and Flexibility of Escoffier’s Online Programs
Interested in pursuing a culinary education while living in New York City, but want the flexibility to study from home? An online culinary program could be the perfect solution. Escoffier, the largest culinary school brand in the USA* and ranked #1 Best College for Culinary Arts in America in 2025,† can provide the flexibility you need.
Our comprehensive online cooking courses focus on essential business and career skills, can equip you for a career and allow you to thrive in New York City’s bustling food landscape as a culinary professional.
*Based on comparable student population data for Austin and Boulder as currently reported in Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
60 weeks*
Escoffier’s online programs are designed to work with your schedule. In a little more than a year, you could earn a diploma or degree that can set you apart.
Externship
Apply what you learn in your classes. Get assistance finding an externship training opportunity in a professional kitchen in the New York City area.
Financial Aid
For students who apply and qualify, federal Pell grants and/or federal student loans are available. Learn about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).
Escoffier Alumni Spotlight
Escoffier graduate Lisa Spychala is a professional food stylist and Food Network Chopped contestant.
Lisa Spychala, a graduate of Escoffier’s online culinary arts program, has built a successful career as a food stylist based in New York City. Initially learning food styling on the job while working as an associate producer for television lifestyle segments, she quickly built a name for herself as a professional. She has worked with celebrity chefs like Anne Burrell, Carla Hall, and Aaron Sanchez, and even made a commercial with actor Freddie Prinze Jr. She also competed on Food Network’s Chopped, where she recognized the need to further her culinary education.
This realization led her to enroll in Escoffier’s online culinary arts program, which provided her with the formal training she needed to enhance her skills. Lisa credits her time at Escoffier as essential in building her confidence in both cooking and food styling.*
Escoffier Is Nationally Accredited
Escoffier’s online programs are available through Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, Colorado, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).
Learn Essential Hands-on Skills with Online Cooking Classes
The online culinary curriculum from Escoffier’s Boulder, Colorado campus is designed to provide you with the necessary tools for a successful career in the culinary industry.
Escoffier’s online culinary programs deliver an in-depth curriculum that includes essential cooking techniques, kitchen management, and professional guidance from experienced Chef Instructors. These programs cover everything from knife skills to culinary methods, along with the business principles necessary for the industry. This well-rounded education from cooking school can help equip you for advancement to higher positions and entrepreneurial opportunities in the culinary field.
Studying culinary arts while living in New York City offers unparalleled access to one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse food scenes. The city’s vast array of restaurants, food markets, and culinary events provide opportunities for inspiration and hands-on experience. Additionally, networking with top chefs and industry professionals in New York could help enhance your career prospects.
Learn the Same Skills as You Would on Campus
New Yorkers can engage in online learning with real-time classroom discussions and guidance from experienced Chef Instructors. Here’s how it works:
LEARN
DISCUSS
EXPERIENCE
The online programs at Escoffier allow students to develop the same skills as ground campus students, but you complete the program in your own kitchen.”
Online Culinary School Tuition & Financial Aid Opportunities
*59% of Boulder students who entered postsecondary education for the first time received some financial assistance in 2022-23 for those who applied and qualified, College Navigator, National Center for Education Statistics
Escoffier’s online programs are available through the Boulder, Colorado, campus. The average net price was $11,756 for grant or scholarship aid for students in the largest program for the time in academic year 2022-23.*
*College Navigator, National Center for Education Statistics
Program Cost: $35,145†
Program Length: 60
weeks*
Program Cost: $23,272†
Program Length: 60
weeks
†The total program cost listed above encompasses tuition, tool kit, uniform, and an optional non-refundable technology fee if you do not already have a computer. As textbooks are delivered electronically, the cost of books used in the program and available online to the students are included in the tuition cost. For more cost details, refer to our catalog.
*Time to complete may be extended due to Distance Education course sequencing.
The cost for Escoffier is substantially less compared to the other schools I researched. As far as the cost, Escoffier was definitely worth it. You can’t put a price tag on knowledge and education.”*
*This information may not reflect every student’s experience. Results and outcomes may be based on several factors such as geographical region or previous experience.
Gain Hands-on Experience in a Professional Kitchen in the New York Area
At Escoffier, studying online from New York City can include the opportunity to complete an externship while living in a dynamic and cutting-edge restaurant environment. This practical externship allows you to immerse yourself in a professional kitchen, applying the techniques learned online, while also gaining valuable mentorship from experienced culinary professionals.
- Networking opportunities with culinary professionals
- Real-world kitchen experience
- Professional skill development
“[Career Services department] sent over my application and my resume, and assisted me with setting up the [externship] interview. Within a week, I had an externship placement, and I was figuring out the logistics. That wouldn’t have even been a possibility for me if it had not been for the Chef Instructors and the support staff at Escoffier.”*
“The externship class allows students-even those with no prior experience-to get their foot in the door. Once they gain that valuable experience, it is easier for them to determine which path they want to take with their careers.”*
“All the puzzle pieces are starting to come together because of the real world experience that I now have, which I didn’t have before. It was hard to see these issues in place since I’ve never worked in a restaurant. Now [after my externship], I can see it.”*
*This information may not reflect every student’s experience. Results and outcomes may be based on several factors such as geographical region or previous experience.
New York City: A Culinary Capital of Iconic Flavors and Global Diversity
Obtaining a culinary degree or diploma online while living in New York City can offer immersive, hands-on experience amidst the city’s dynamic food culture.
150 nationalities represented in restaurants city-wide
*Industry Statistics, NYC Hospitality Alliance
Upcoming New York City Food Events
This event will offer prix-fixe meals at hundreds of participating restaurants and neighborhood favorites across the five boroughs.
This annual event offers tastings from 100+ wineries and craft beverages along with an assortment of artisanal foods.
Known as the “Woodstock of Eating,” this food festival features a variety of dishes from local vendors.
Earning an online culinary degree or diploma can immerse you in one of the world’s most vibrant food capitals
Studying culinary arts while living in New York City provides you with the vital skills needed to explore a wide range culinary career options. Connecting with local chefs and gaining hands-on experience in the city’s bustling food scene can be vital to helping you move closer to your culinary goals.
Combining practical education with industry-focused training from cooking school, graduates are equipped to thrive in various culinary environments. New York City’s vibrant job market offers endless opportunities, from trendy food trucks and iconic delis to world-renowned fine dining restaurants, giving you a broad spectrum of career paths to pursue.
As of 2023, New York City saw a significant surge in restaurant openings, adding 4,739 new establishments, making it the leading urban center for restaurant growth.*
$64,810
Average salary for chefs & head cooks in New York City*
*Wages for Chefs and Head Cooks in New York, NY, U.S. Department of Labor
$31.16
Average hourly wage for chefs & head cooks in New York City
*Wages for Chefs and Head Cooks in New York, NY, U.S. Department of Labor
15,540
Chefs & head cooks employed in New York City*
*Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics,
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Culinary School in New York City
How do I enroll in online culinary school at Escoffier from New York City?
Signing up for an online culinary school from New York City is straightforward, taking approximately 10 minutes on Escoffier’s convenient online platform. For a step-by-step breakdown of the process, visit our “How to Get into Culinary School” guide, or contact our Admissions Department for individualized support.
Applications are accepted all year round. When applying, be prepared to provide the following details:
- Your location and demographic information
- Emergency contact details
- The program you wish to enroll in
- Proof of high school graduation
- A valid driver’s license, passport, or photo ID
After completing your application, you’ll need to submit it. You will then receive an enrollment agreement packet through DocuSign.
Once your application is reviewed, a member of our Admissions Team will reach out to discuss the next steps. This is also a great opportunity to talk to the Student Finance Department about financial aid options. Financial aid is available to those who apply and qualify, which can make culinary education more accessible for many students.
Do I need a GED or high school diploma to enroll in culinary school online at Escoffier while living in New York City?
Yes, to enroll in culinary school online at Escoffier while living in New York City, you need to provide proof of high school completion or an equivalent qualification before your intended start date. New York City students can meet this requirement through one of the following options:
- A high school diploma or transcript
- Passing a high school equivalency exam such as the GED, HSED, HiSet, or TASC
- Documentation showing you have passed a state-authorized examination recognized as equivalent to a high school diploma
- An official college transcript from an accredited institution showing completion of an Associate degree or higher
- Completion of 60 college semester credits or 90 college quarter credits from an accredited institution
- A state-recognized homeschool certificate of completion
- Homeschool documentation required by local or state agencies, including notification to the required agency, academic transcripts, and proof of graduation
- A DD-214 form for U.S. veterans, indicating high school equivalency
How much does it cost to go to culinary school in New York City?
View the costs for all programs available to students in New York City. Financial aid is available to those who qualify and apply.
For more information on the financial aid process and to speak with a financial advisor, please contact us.
Is financial aid or scholarships available to attend culinary school for students from New York?
Yes, financial aid is available for students from New York City who apply and meet the qualifications for culinary school.
In the 2022-2023 academic year, most of first-time postsecondary students at Escoffier who met the eligibility criteria received financial assistance. We encourage prospective students to reach out to our Financial Aid Department to determine their eligibility for grants or federally-backed loans.
Escoffier also provides scholarships for eligible online students, including the Work & Learn Scholarships, the Student Veteran Scholarship, and various merit-based scholarships.
Discover the available scholarships and check your eligibility.
Is Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts accredited in New York City?
Escoffier does hold accreditation in New York City! It stands out as the only U.S.-accredited institution offering 100% online diplomas and degrees nationwide with culinary classes and hands-on industry externships.*
Our online programs are available through the Boulder campus. Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder, Colorado, is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). Additionally, the school is approved and regulated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE), Division of Private Occupational Schools. The Boulder campus is also authorized by the CDHE to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA).
This accreditation was achieved through meticulous curriculum development and the recruitment of faculty specialized in online education. This is crucial for Escoffier’s culinary arts programs, which are offered entirely online and include in-person industry externships.
*Our Boulder, CO campus is the only accredited institution in the United States to offer both fully online diploma and degree programs nationwide with culinary classes and hands-on industry externships. We are accredited by ACCET – A Partnership for Quality®. ACCET is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency.
What culinary job opportunities are available in New York City?
Consistently ranked as one of the top food cities in the United States, New York City is famous for its vibrant and eclectic food scene, offering an range of top-notch restaurants, food festivals, and avant-garde dining experiences.
For graduates with a culinary arts degree or diploma in New York City, the city’s world-class restaurants can offer a multitude of job opportunities. Here are some possible career paths in New York City:
Chefs and Kitchen Staff: New York’s dining scene, particularly in neighborhoods like Chelsea, the West Village, and the Lower East Side, is packed with both innovative and established restaurants. This culinary variety provides numerous job opportunities for graduates, covering a broad spectrum of cuisines, from traditional New York pizza and bagels to contemporary fusion and high-end dining.
Pastry Chefs: Specialty bakeries and patisseries are always popping up in every borough of New York City, and they often seek creative pastry chefs. The city’s flourishing bakery scene offers an excellent platform for pastry chefs to display their skills and craft unique, high-quality baked goods.
Catering and Event Chefs: New York’s dynamic social, corporate, and cultural event scene provides numerous opportunities for chefs specializing in catering. These roles typically demand skills in menu planning, large-scale food production, and client service, with events frequently hosted at prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Central Park.
Food and Beverage Managers in Hotels: As a major tourist destination, New York City is home to many luxury hotels like the Plaza Hotel and the The Ritz-Carlton New York that may require experienced food and beverage directors to oversee their dining establishments. These roles often involve managing hotel restaurants, bars, and room service operations, ensuring a high standard of service and quality.
To learn more about the culinary job opportunities available to you, check out our article, 13 Great Culinary Careers in the Food Industry.
How do I become a chef in New York City?
While working towards a career as a chef in New York City, it’s helpful to combine culinary education with hands-on experience. Here are some steps you can take to help you grow your career in the culinary industry:
Culinary Education:
The online culinary arts program at Escoffier delivers a thorough education in culinary techniques and kitchen management, allowing you to acquire essential skills and pursue your education remotely. This program also includes an in-person industry externship, offering invaluable practical experience for aspiring chefs.
Gain Local Experience:
Enhance your online studies with hands-on experience in New York City’s vibrant culinary scene, which boasts a diverse array of restaurants, from contemporary eateries to fine dining establishments. Externships in these settings can solidify the skills learned in your courses.
Start with Entry-Level Positions:
Starting as a line cook or prep cook in New York City restaurants can help you practice fundamental skills and understand the real-world demands of a professional kitchen. This experience is vital for building a successful culinary career.
Network in New York City:
You can leverage New York City’s vibrant culinary scene to broaden your professional network by participating in local food festivals, culinary competitions, and industry conferences. Additionally, joining professional associations like the American Culinary Federation’s New York chapter can help you connect with local chefs and restaurateurs.
Gaining hands-on experience in the city while also getting a culinary education can help set you up for success for a career as a chef in New York City. To learn more about how you can pursue this career, explore our Essential Guide to Becoming a Chef.
What is the median salary of a culinary chef in New York City?
In the United States, the median salary for a culinary chef in New York City is approximately $64,810 as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Does Escoffier’s culinary school provide job search assistance after graduation for students in New York City?
Yes, culinary school online at Escoffier provides job search assistance for students in New York City upon graduation. Our Career Services team offers coaching and resources to help students meet their career goals and connect with potential employers.
At Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, every student has access to Career Services support during their studies and can continue to benefit from this assistance even after graduation.
Is Escoffier the best culinary school in New York City?
Niche has recognized Escoffier as the #1 best college for culinary arts in America 2025, making it a premier choice for those living in New York City. Our school is celebrated for its experienced Chef Instructors, comprehensive curriculum, and dedication to sustainable and farm-to-table practices. The curriculum spans a wide array of topics, including fundamental cooking techniques, foodservice management, business skills, and diverse culinary concepts.
Our programs also feature practical industry externships, providing students with valuable hands-on experience in a professional kitchen setting.
Beyond our online culinary programs, Escoffier offers online courses in Baking and Pastry Arts, Food Entrepreneurship, Plant-Based Culinary Arts, Holistic Nutrition & Wellness, and Hospitality & Restaurant Operations Management.
For those in New York City considering a career in culinary arts, enrolling in culinary school online at Escoffier is an excellent option.
To learn more about what sets our school apart, read our article on what you need to know about culinary school at Escoffier.
Ready to attend online culinary school while living in New York City?
