Bachelor of Culinary Arts
Food & Beverage
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Develop your creative, technical, and business skills for a career in the world of food, with the only Bachelor of Culinary Arts degree of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Gain hands-on experience, industry connections, and the expertise for leadership in culinary, hospitality, and food innovation roles.
NZ$8,821
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop advanced culinary skills
Master the techniques and knowledge required for professional kitchen work and food preparation.
Design and innovate in food
Create new and innovative food concepts, products, events, and experiences reflecting both contemporary cuisine and design thinking.
About This Course
The Bachelor of Culinary Arts at Otago Polytechnic is a unique three-year, Level 7 degree that equips you with the technical cooking skills, creative design tools, and business practices needed to succeed in the food industry. The programme emphasises innovation, leadership, and the development of new food concepts, with real-world learning through industry projects and internships. No prior culinary knowledge is required, just a passion for food and motivation to create memorable food experiences. Flexible pathways include Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) and Work Integrated Learning (WIL), so those with industry experience can fast-track their degree while continuing to work.
Course Content
- Culinary techniques and professional kitchen practice
- Food design and sensory analysis
- Bakery and dessert creation
- Mahika Kai and contemporary cuisine
- Kitchen management and leadership
- Event design and hospitality
- Financial forecasting and analysis
- Client projects and industry collaboration
- Food product/service development
- Sustainable culinary systems design
- Professional practice and career planning
- Internship/work-integrated learning
- Major culinary project
Entry Requirements
Build towards these roles
ChefFood Product DeveloperHospitality ManagerEvent CoordinatorBaker
Build skills in these industries
Hospitality & TourismFood & Beverage
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
