Baking & Pastry Arts Associate Degree | Providence | Johnson & Wales University

Program Overview

Do you love combining your creativity with the scientific precision necessary in the baking and pastry arts? JWU’s International Baking & Pastry Institute® sets the global standard. In our 2-year Baking & Pastry Arts associate degree program, you’ll learn to master celebration cakes, artisan breads, chocolate confections, classic pastries and sugar showpieces in our pastry and bread labs.

Throughout the program, you’ll develop proficiency in all aspects of baking and pastry arts. You will learn the skills to develop dessert menus and implement cost controls, as well as obtain a nationally recognized food safety manager certification.

You’ll receive your own pastry kit with the tools necessary to be successful in the industry. In addition, you’ll receive professional chef uniforms and our proprietary “Baking & Pastry Fundamentals” and “Baking & Pastry Formulas” textbooks, authored by JWU faculty.

You’ll also take general arts and science classes as well as professional studies courses that provide the critical thinking and communication skills necessary for long-term career development. Then you’ll have an opportunity to apply these skills for a term of industry experience at an internship or study abroad option, building your résumé and establishing industry contact

After completing your Baking & Pastry Arts associate degree, continue your education by enrolling in one of the following JWU bachelor’s degree programs:

  • Baking & Pastry Arts (Providence only)
  • Baking & Pastry Arts and Food & Beverage Industry Management
  • Business Studies
  • Food & Beverage Entrepreneurship

Admissions is contingent upon you meeting the technical standards for this program. To learn more, visit the JWU Catalog’s technical standards page.

Individual states may require specific licensing or professional certification in addition to earning a degree in order to practice in the field. For more information, please visit the Licensure & Professional Certification Disclosures page of the catalog.

Student-faculty ratio and career outcomes infographic.

For an explanation of the career outcomes rate and other information, visit JWU Student Consumer Information.

This program is available in Providence.

Career Possibilities

Some professions may require additional study, background checks, certifications, licenses, exams and/or experience as required qualifications for employment. Students are responsible for verifying that they can meet the employment requirements of potential employers.

Sample Courses

  • Foundations of Baking and Pastry
  • Principles of Cake Production and Design
  • Artisan Bread and Viennoiserie
  • Chocolate, Confections & Mignardise
  • Artisan Cafe

In addition to classes, free elective credit can be applied to a number of options such as Directed Experiential Education (DEE), internship, minor or study abroad. You are encouraged to contact an advisor before scheduling free elective credits.

For a full course listing, visit the JWU Catalog:

Baking & Pastry Arts (AS)

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