Gov. McKee, CCRI Launch New Culinary Degree Program in Newport
Gov. Dan McKee and the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) announced the launch of an Associate in Arts degree in culinary craftsmanship at CCRI’s Newport campus beginning in fall 2025. To support the launch of this new program, McKee has proposed $850,000 to establish a Culinary and Hospitality Hub at CCRI’s Newport Campus. This hub will respond to the growing demand for skilled culinary professionals in Rhode Island.
“The inclusion of these funds in the Governor’s capital budget is a significant step forward in CCRI’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality culinary education,” said CCRI Interim President Rosemary A. Costigan in a news release shared with What’s Up Newport. “With our Newport Campus serving as a hub for workforce development, this investment will not only create a pipeline of skilled professionals but also strengthen Rhode Island’s thriving culinary and hospitality sectors.”
CCRI’s two-year program is designed to provide students with the skills necessary for advanced culinary and hospitality positions, including roles as head line cook or sous chef. Within one year, students can complete a Certificate in Culinary Essentials and be ready to serve the culinary industry as entry-level line cooks.
The Associate in Arts in Culinary Craftsmanship is structured as a cohort-based program. The curriculum will consist of the following courses:
- Kitchen Function Essentials: Knife skills, equipment function, food safety
- Culinary Storeroom Essentials: Proper food storage, chemicals (MSDS)
- Cooking and Production Methods: Poaching, grilling, searing, and related cooking techniques
- Food Production: European, American, and international cuisines, along with large-scale preparation techniques
- Internship and Practicum: Hands-on experience at local restaurants
- Credit for Prior Learning: Opportunities for up to six credits for students from CTE high schools
To further strengthen its commitment to offering high-quality culinary education, CCRI has partnered with Bally’s Corporation, which has invested $5 million to support students. Through the partnership, CCRI students can take advantage of new and emerging resources and opportunities in the culinary and hospitality sectors while enhancing their career readiness.