Students who meet specific grade requirements will automatically receive a CIA ProChef Certification Level I credential upon graduation from the CIA. This additional industry-recognized verification of their skills represents the first step in their journey of lifelong learning in the food world.
Launched in 2003, the CIA ProChef Certification program validates, at three levels, the culinary and management competencies of professional chefs in the industry. It is the only certification program in which chefs and bakers/pastry chefs take a multi-day practical and written exam to verify specific competencies within their fields. The culinary credential validates proficiencies such as knife skills; stock, soup, and sauce making; and the basic applications of heat to a variety of main items and side dishes. The baking and pastry credential confirms aptitude with a variety of mixing methods, baking styles, and decorating and finishing skills.
As the many facets of foodservice have grown and evolved to require more measurable skills, certification programs have become more important to chefs as a means to differentiate themselves and demonstrate their skillsets. Since its inception, the CIA's certification program has been adopted as a professional development standard by companies and organizations such as Aramark, Rich Products Corporation, Chinese Culture University, and Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. It is recognized in the U.S., Jamaica, Brazil, China, and Hong Kong, as well as many other countries.
ProChef Level I Certification for CIA Graduates
Beginning September 8, 2018, students who complete the following classes with a grade of C or better will automatically be awarded ProChef Level I certification upon graduation from the CIA:
- Food Safety
- Nutrition
- Mathematical Foundations
- Culinary Fundamentals
(San Antonio students must get a grade of C or better in Intro to Food Science in lieu of Food Safety and Nutrition.)
ProChef Baking Level I Certification for CIA Graduates
Beginning September 8, 2018, students who complete the following classes with a grade of C or better will automatically be awarded ProChef Baking Level I certification upon graduation from the CIA:
- Food Safety
- Mathematical Foundations
- Baking and Pastry Techniques
- Baking Ingredients and Equipment Technology
(San Antonio students must get a grade of C or better in Intro to Food Science in lieu of Food Safety.)
Awarding of Certification
Students who would like a paper ProChef Level I certificate must request one from the Continuing Education Registration Office. A fee of $25 ($50 USD for Singapore students) will be assessed for each certificate.
Please note that it can take up to 60 days from the time the last grade is entered before the certification is awarded.