NECI is looking for highly qualified applicants who have significant (at least three years) related experience in quality dining operations. If you meet our criteria, you may apply for Advanced Placement in the culinary arts or the baking and pastry arts degree programs. Students enrolled through this program complete a modified curriculum from the first residency, and we waive the first internship requirement.

Upon completion of first year requirements, you enroll immediately in the second year residency. The modified first year is an individualized program based on your previous experience and knowledge. It is structured in the form of an Education Plan developed by the Dean of Academics. The Education Plan outlines a schedule of coursework that you will complete by attending partial or full courses, participating in guided study, transfer of credit, or an Assessment of Prior Learning (APL). Credit will not be awarded for completion of partial courses. Except in extenuating circumstances, determinations regarding transfer credit and the APL must be made prior to your beginning classes. Students requesting an APL will be required to submit an APL portfolio project.

In order to qualify for this program, you must meet all the requirements outlined for admission to the Associate of Occupational Studies degree program and pass a written and practical exam. The cost of testing (which may be waived) is $50 if you take the exam at NECI and $100 if you take it elsewhere. Your writing skills are also assessed. Applicants interested in preparing for the written test are sent a list of suggested readings.

For the Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts degree program, the practical portion of the test involves kitchen work and includes general taste, touch, and timing skills as demonstrated through knife work, soup and sauce preparation, and mise en place. During the test, you will be asked to prepare several dishes demonstrating knowledge of classical preparation techniques. The written test covers general culinary history and math knowledge.

For the Associate of Occupational Studies in Baking and Pastry Arts degree program, the practical portion of the test involves kitchen work and includes general taste, touch, and timing skills as demonstrated through bread making, lamination, pastry and dessert preparation and mise en place. During the test, you will be asked to prepare several dishes demonstrating knowledge of classical preparation techniques. The written test covers general understanding of baking and pastry terminology and math knowledge.

We encourage you to take time to contact an Admissions Representative and get started today!