ONLINE CULINARY SCHOOL AVAILABLE IN DALLAS

Earn your culinary degree or diploma conveniently from home while living in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.* Supplement your learning with hands-on experience through an industry externship. Financial aid options are available for those who apply and qualify.

*Escoffier’s online diploma and degree culinary programs are available through Escoffier’s Boulder, CO campus.

Next start date: Jan 8

Overview

Experience the Convenience of Escoffier’s Online Culinary Arts Programs

Are you looking to earn a culinary education while living in Dallas but need a flexible schedule that allows you to study from home? An online culinary program could be the perfect fit for you. Escoffier, the largest culinary school brand in the USA* and ranked #1 Best College for Culinary Arts in America in 2025, may offer the convenience you need.

With our extensive online cooking classes and emphasis on essential business and career skills, you could enhance your knowledge in a wide-range of culinary topics while gaining hands-on experience in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.


*Based on comparable student population data for Austin and Boulder as currently reported in Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

#1 Best College for Culinary Arts in America 2025, Niche

A close-up view of a gourmet restaurant plate of filet mignon topped with crispy onions, with roasted chile and sauteed spinach on the side
Online training in

60 weeks

Hands-on Dallas area

Externship

Complete the FAFSA® for

Financial Aid

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).

ACCET logo
Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training

Yes! Online Culinary School at Escoffier Really Works.

Escoffier has been providing accredited online culinary education since 2015, when our first non-degree online program was established.

Next start date: January 8, 2025

Courses

Learn Hands-on Skills with Online Cooking Classes

Escoffier’s online culinary curriculum, offered through its Boulder, Colorado campus, has been designed to help you learn skills necessary for working in the culinary industry.

Escoffier’s online culinary programs consist of a comprehensive curriculum covering cooking techniques, kitchen management, and mentorship from experienced Chef Instructors. From learning the mother sauces and other fundamental cooking methods to understanding the business aspects of the culinary industry, these cooking school programs offer a broad education that could help pave the way for a culinary career.

Living in Dallas while studying online can provide you with the opportunity to explore and engage with a vibrant and unique food scene. Dallas’s culinary landscape, known for its diversity with a variety of niches, can be a source of endless inspiration. From famous barbecue joints to upscale seafood restaurants, the city’s dynamic food culture can enhance your online education.*

A female chef stands with her arms crossed in the door of her restaurant
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Business-Focused Curriculum

Entrepreneurship & food management business skills
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Personalized Feedback

Support from professional Chef Instructors
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Farm to Table® Coursework

Our programs include a farm-to-table course that focuses on sustainability
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Career Assistance

Culinary arts job search, interview, and career preparation assistance
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Networking Opportunities

Access to alumni mentorship and employer partner network
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Flexible Learning

Earn your online culinary arts degree or diploma from almost anywhere
Flexible Learning

Learn the Same Skills as On-Campus Students

Dallas residents can learn online with live classroom discussions and support from experienced Chef Instructors. Here’s how it works:

An online culinary student taking notes in front of a computer notebook
step 1:

LEARN

Read assigned texts, watch technique videos, do additional research, and complete knowledge checks.
Escoffier online culinary student works on his laptop at his home
step 2:

DISCUSS

Participate in discussion boards with your classmates and instructors about topics related to your coursework, the industry, and more. Join live lessons held virtually each week for a real classroom experience.
An Escoffier online student takes photos of her freshly baked Challah bread in her home kitchen
step 3:

EXPERIENCE

It’s cooking time! Execute your practical assignments, documenting the process along the way through a production sheet and taking photos when instructed to.
Chef Instructor Luke Shaffer

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.”

LUKE SHAFFERESCOFFIER CHEF INSTRUCTOR
Cost & Time

Online Culinary School Tuition & Financial Aid Opportunities

Most Escoffier students received financial assistance in 2022-2023.* Financial Aid is available to students who apply and qualify.
Federal Financial Aid
Financial aid is available to students who apply and qualify. Get our student aid guide, or speak with a financial aid representative to learn more.
Scholarships and Grants
Learn about scholarships and federal financial grants for those who apply and qualify.
Military Benefits
Eligible active duty, veterans, and their family members have specific grants available to help them reach their educational goals.

Escoffier’s online programs are available through the Boulder, Colorado, campus. The average net price was $11,554 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

Online Associate of Occupational Studies Degree in Culinary Arts

Program Cost: $35,170
Program Length: 60 weeks

Application Fee Waived for Enrollments between July 1 – December 31, 2024!*

Online Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Program Cost: $23,297
Program Length: 60 weeks

Application Fee Waived for Enrollments between July 1 – December 31, 2024!*

The total program cost listed above encompasses tuition, tool kit, uniform, a non-refundable application fee, 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.

*Prospective students enrolling from July 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024 will receive an application fee waiver. The purpose of this waiver is to assist prospective students in the enrollment process by providing them with an opportunity to reallocate their resources toward other educational or personal needs.

A rack of lamb with tomatoes, roasted garlic, and sauce on a white plate

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.”*

Brent Unruh
Brent UnruhEscoffier Culinary Arts Graduate & Executive Chef, Target Hospitality

*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.

Hands-on Learning

Get practical industry training in the Dallas-Fort Worth area

At Escoffier, studying online from Dallas, TX, can allow you the opportunity to complete an externship in a diverse and exciting culinary scene. This hands-on externship helps to immerse you in the industry and apply the techniques that you’ve learned online. You can also gain mentorship from experienced culinary professionals.

  • Networking opportunities with culinary professionals
  • Real-world kitchen experience
  • Professional skill development
A collage of photos of an online culinary arts student in front of his computer at home and a student basting butter on dough in her kitchen

“[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.”*

Escoffier student Chris Marhevka headshot
CHRIS MARHEVKAESCOFFIER CULINARY ARTS GRADUATE

“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.”*

Escoffier Chef Instructor Vicki Berger
VICKI BERGERESCOFFIER Hospitality & Restaurant Operations Management Instructor

“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.”*

Michael Harden headshot thumbnail
MICHAEL HARDENESCOFFIER graduate & food enthusiast

*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.

Dallas: A Culinary Landscape of Texan Traditions and Global Influences

Earning a culinary degree or diploma online while living in Dallas can help provide you with essential skills in the heart of the city’s diverse food scene.

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Home to a top-ranked Mexican food restaurant in the U.S.*

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12 James-Beard Award Winners*

*Dallas Winners, James Beard Foundation

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3 Forbes Travel Guide Ranked Restaurants*

*Dallas, Forbes Travel Guide

Upcoming Dallas Food Events

Texas Food Fest in Dallas

This annual event features Texas flavors with diverse food vendors, live entertainment, and cooking demonstrations.

Dates: September 1, 2024
Location: Lofty Spaces, Dallas
Sazon Latin Food Festival in Dallas

This event celebrates Latin American cuisine, featuring a diverse array of dishes from various countries, live music, and cultural performances.

Dates: September 22, 2024
Location: Community Beer Co., Dallas
Taco Week

Participating restaurants offer special taco deals and discounts, allowing customers to explore a wide variety of flavors and styles from different culinary influences.

Dates: September 23-29, 2024
Location: Restaurants throughout the Dallas-Ft. Worth area
Chefs for Farmers Food and Wine Festival

The event celebrates the farm-to-table movement by bringing together chefs, farmers, and artisans to showcase locally-sourced dishes.

Dates: November 1-3, 2024
Location: Dallas location to be announced
Greek Food Festival of Dallas

This event celebrates Greek culture through authentic cuisine, live music, and traditional dancing, providing attendees with an immersive experience of Greece’s rich heritage.

Dates: November 1-3, 2024
Location: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Dallas
Career Outlook

Earning an online culinary degree or diploma could immerse you in the heart of Southern cuisine

Studying culinary arts while living in Dallas can equip you with essential skills for various culinary career paths, offering a unique opportunity to engage with local chefs and gain practical experience in a bold and dynamic food scene.

With a combination of hands-on education and industry-specific training from cooking school, graduates may be prepared for diverse culinary environments. Dallas’s job market can offer opportunities across a wide spectrum of culinary fields, from iconic barbecue and Tex-Mex eateries to upscale fine dining establishments, potentially opening up career possibilities in a city known for its rich culinary heritage and innovation.

A waiter drops off plates of food to a booth at a restaurant

Michelin Stars are coming to Dallas, which is predicted to be a tremendous asset for Texas cities that could elevate the restaurant scene to an international stage.*

$50,260

Average salary for chefs & head cooks in Dallas*

$24.16

Average hourly wage for chefs & head cooks in Dallas*

3,690

Chefs & head cooks employed in Dallas*

*Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics,
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Culinary School in Dallas

How do I become a chef in Dallas?

To build a career as a chef in Dallas, it’s essential to blend a strong culinary education with practical experience. Here are some important steps that can help you develop your career in this field:

Culinary Education: The online culinary arts programs at Escoffier provide a comprehensive curriculum in culinary techniques and kitchen management, helping you to learn necessary skills and further your education remotely. These programs also include an in-person industry externship, providing practical experience for an aspiring chef.

Gain Local Experience: Supplement your online learning by working in Dallas’s diverse culinary scene. The city boasts a wide range of dining options, including authentic Tex-Mex eateries, renowned barbecue joints, and upscale steakhouses. This dynamic environment could provide valuable opportunities to gain hands-on experience and expand your culinary skills.

Start with Entry-Level Positions: Taking on roles such as line cook or prep cook in Dallas’s restaurants could be a helpful step in starting your career. These entry-level positions can be crucial for practicing the skills you learned in the classroom and gaining insight into the fast-paced environment of professional kitchens.

Network in Dallas: Networking is essential for furthering your career. Connect with Dallas’s culinary community by participating in local food festivals, culinary competitions, and events for food enthusiasts and aspiring chefs. Joining professional organizations like the Texas Chefs Association’s Dallas chapter can help you meet experienced chefs and restaurateurs.

A blend of online education with hands-on experience in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area can be greatly beneficial to your culinary career. For a detailed guide on how you can pursue this career, check out our Essential Guide to Becoming a Chef.

What is the median salary for chefs and head cooks in Dallas?

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median salary for chefs and head cooks in Dallas is approximately $58,240 per year as of May 2023.

Is Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts accredited in Dallas?

Escoffier is accredited in Dallas! Escoffier stands out as one of the few U.S.-accredited institutions that offers fully online degrees, which include 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, holds national accreditation from the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).

The school is also approved and regulated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE), Division of Private Occupational Schools. The Boulder campus is authorized by the CDHE to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA).

This accreditation was achieved through the development of a rigorous curriculum and the recruitment of faculty specializing in online education, which is essential for Escoffier’s culinary arts programs. These programs are offered entirely online and include in-person industry externships.

How do I enroll in online culinary school at Escoffier?

Enrolling in an online culinary program from Dallas is simple with Escoffier’s user-friendly online platform. The process takes about 10 minutes. For a comprehensive overview of the steps you need to take to enroll, you can refer to our guide, “How to Get into Culinary School,” or contact our Admissions Department for personalized assistance.

Applications are accepted throughout the year. You will need to provide the following information in order to apply:

  • Your location and demographic details
  • Emergency contact information
  • The program you’re interested in
  • Proof of graduation
  • A valid driver’s license, passport, or photo ID

After finishing the application, you’ll be prompted to submit the $25 application fee. An enrollment agreement packet will then be sent to you via DocuSign.

An Admissions Team member will reach out to you to discuss the next steps once your application is reviewed. This is also a great opportunity to speak with the Student Finance Department about financing options. Financial aid is available to those who apply and qualify, making education accessible to many students.

Do I need a GED or high school diploma to enroll?

Yes, to enroll in online culinary school at Escoffier while living in Dallas, you will need to provide proof of high school completion or an equivalent qualification prior to your planned start date.

Dallas 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 Dallas?

See the costs for all programs available to students in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. Financial aid is available to those who apply and qualify.

If you would like to receive more information about the financial aid process and get in contact with a financial advisor, please reach out to us.

Is financial aid or scholarships available?

Yes, students living in Dallas who apply and qualify can receive financial aid for culinary school.

In the 2022-2023 academic year, most first-time postsecondary students at Escoffier who were eligible received some form of financial assistance. Prospective students are encouraged to contact our Financial Aid Department to verify their eligibility for grants or federally-backed loans.

Escoffier also provides scholarships for eligible online students, such as the Work & Learn Scholarships, the Student Veteran Scholarship, and a variety of merit-based scholarships.

Explore the available scholarships and find out if you qualify.

What culinary job opportunities are available in Dallas?

For graduates with a culinary arts degree or diploma in Dallas, the city’s diverse food scene can present numerous job opportunities. Here are some potential career paths in Dallas:

  • Chefs and Kitchen Staff: Dallas’s dining landscape, particularly in neighborhoods like Deep Ellum, Bishop Arts District, and Uptown, offers a blend of innovative and well-established restaurants. This culinary diversity can present many job opportunities for graduates, spanning Tex-Mex and Southern barbecue cuisines to contemporary fine dining.
  • Private Chefs: In Dallas, there is a demand for personalized home dining experiences, which can provide opportunities for private chefs to create custom menus that incorporate local ingredients. This role involves planning, preparing, and serving meals specifically tailored to each client’s preferences.
  • Catering and Event Chefs: Dallas’s vibrant social, corporate, and cultural event scene can create numerous opportunities for chefs specializing in catering. Positions in this sector typically require expertise in menu planning, large-scale food production, and client service, with events often hosted at prestigious venues like the Dallas Museum of Art and the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.
  • Food Entrepreneurs: Dallas’s dynamic and diverse food scene can be ideal for launching culinary startups. These ventures can include food trucks, pop-up restaurants, or artisanal products, often supported by local markets and events like the Dallas Food and Wine Festival.

To explore more culinary job opportunities that could be available to you, check out our article, “13 Great Culinary Careers in the Food Industry.”

Which culinary degree is best for high-paying chef jobs in Dallas?

When deciding between Escoffier’s Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations and the Associate of Occupational Studies Degree in Culinary Arts, several factors should be considered. Neither program guarantees a higher salary in Dallas’s culinary market. Instead, the best choice depends on what your specific career goals are and the depth and length of education you desire.

Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations: This program focuses on the core skills necessary for working in the culinary industry, teaching fundamental cooking techniques and basic professional skills. It typically takes less time to complete than an associate degree, making it ideal for those who want to enter the workforce quickly and start gaining hands-on experience.

Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts Degree: This degree provides a comprehensive curriculum, including culinary skills and a broader understanding of culinary arts management. It covers topics such as advanced culinary techniques, restaurant operations, foodservice accounting, and business communications. This program is particularly beneficial for those aiming for the highest professional levels or planning to start their own culinary business.

Both programs offer essential education and training for culinary careers. Securing a well-paying chef position also involves leveraging Dallas’s culinary networking opportunities, staying motivated, and applying your skills practically. Whether you choose a diploma or a degree, gaining experience through externships and ongoing professional development can be crucial to building your career as a chef.

Does Escoffier’s culinary school provide job search assistance after graduation for students in Dallas, Texas?

Yes, culinary school online at Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts can provide job search assistance to students in Dallas after graduation. The Career Services team can provide coaching and resources to assist students in pursuing their career aspirations and connecting with employers who align with their professional goals.

At Escoffier, students have 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 Dallas?

Niche has ranked Escoffier as the #1 best college for culinary arts in America 2025, making it a great option for those living in Dallas, Texas. Our school is known for its experienced Chef Instructors, comprehensive curriculum, and emphasis on sustainability and farm-to-table practices. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, from basic cooking techniques to essential culinary skills.

Our programs also include practical industry externships, providing an opportunity for essential hands-on experience in the culinary industry.

Beyond our online culinary programs, Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts offers online courses in Baking and Pastry Arts, Food Entrepreneurship, Plant-Based Culinary Arts, Holistic Nutrition & Wellness, and Hospitality & Restaurant Operations Management.

Enrolling in culinary school online at Escoffier can be an excellent choice for those considering a culinary arts career in Dallas.

To discover more about what makes our school stand out, you can check out our article on what you need to know about culinary school at Escoffier.

An online culinary arts student plating pork chops and sauteed zucchini on a square white plate in his home kitchen

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