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Western Culinary Institute

Western Culinary Institute
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In 1983, two Portland businessmen, Horst Mager (locally famous for his Rheinlander restaurant and yearly Oktoberfest celebration) and Donald Waldbauer, teamed up to establish Western Culinary Institute. WCI quickly gained a reputation for being one of the nation's outstanding private schools.

The school was originally called the Horst Mager Culinary Institute, and its quality, hands-on curriculum attracted students from all over the United States, as well as many countries around the world. Even now, two thirds of the Institute's students come from out of state. In 1986, the Institute adopted its corporate name, Western Culinary Institute, to better reflect its geographic location and reputation as a nationally recognized culinary institute.

In 1996, WCI became a part of Career Education Corporation (CEC), a network of career schools known for their quality curricula and their ability to place graduating students in positions within their chosen fields. In 1999, WCI formed a partnership with world-famous Le Cordon Bleu, meaning that future WCI students can graduate with a coveted Le Cordon Bleu diploma, both in culinary arts and restaurant management. In 2000, WCI was approved for an Associate of Occupational Studies Degree. That year, WCI became the first school in America to offer the coveted Le Cordon Bleu Restaurant Management Degree.

Degree Programs and Courses of Study

Associate of Occupational Studies - Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts

Le Cordon BleuCooking used to be seen as a hobby, but these days it's looked upon as a smart career decision. No wonder--with America's ever-growing love for fine dining, the culinary arts is one of the fastest growing professional fields. In fact, the industry is was expected to have 3 million new positions between 1997 and 2005 (Newsweek, July 7, 1997). How's that for job security?

With such a bright future ahead for the foodservice industry, career opportunities are virtually unlimited. Western Culinary Institute has specialized its curriculum for job- and career-oriented students. Graduates of WCI are prepared for professional culinary careers and advancement opportunities.

The curriculum is structured to ensure that all graduates receive a diversified education in culinary arts. This progressive, comprehensive education provides students the fundamentals needed to follow their chosen culinary career path.

Get more information on the Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts Program from the Western Culinary Institute

Associate of Occupational Studies - Le Cordon Bleu Hospitality & Restaurant Management Degree

The restaurant industry employs 11 million people, making it the nation's largest employer outside of the government. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the restaurant industry's growth will be 30 per cent over the next two years. Industry professionals and owners indicate that the biggest challenge facing the industry is finding educated, competent, and well-trained management personnel to handle this growth.

In order to meet the demand for qualified hospitality professionals, Western Culinary Institute has once again partnered with world renowned Le Cordon Bleu of Paris, France to offer this highly esteemed education considered among the best in the world. The 60 week program permits career-minded students to enter the workforce ready for the challenges in this exciting industry.

The Le Cordon Bleu Hospitality & Restaurant Management Degree Program prepares graduates aspiring to seek employment at a range of levels in Restaurant Management. Restaurant Management courses will span the gap between the kitchen and the dining room. Students who successfully complete the program will be schooled in all aspects of managing restaurant facilities.

If you are an ambitious individual and want to develop the tools to be successful in this highly competitive and rewarding industry, then this program is for you. You can be a part of the best when you enter the Le Cordon Bleu Hospitality & Restaurant Management Degree Degree Program at Western Culinary Institute.

Find out more about the Le Cordon Bleu Hospitality and Restaurant Management Program from the Western Culinary Institute

Certificate or Associate Degree - Le Cordon Bleu Patisserie and Baking

The Western Culinary Institute Le Cordon Bleu Pâtisserie and Baking Program is the "crème de la crème" of pastry and baking education for those interested in a professional baking career. The program includes hands-on teaching of fundamental baking skills as well as the theoretical knowledge that must underlie competency in the field. The LCB Pâtisserie and Baking Programs offer a comprehensive sequential course of study of the baking and pastry arts fundamentals.

Find out more about the Le Cordon Bleu Patisserie and Baking Program from the Western Culinary Institute

Location and Campus

The Western Culinary Institute is located in Portland, Oregon. If you're not familiar with the city, you're in for a real treat. Surrounded by rivers, mountains, and lush green hills, Portland is stunningly beautiful, and known for being one of the most livable cities in the United States. Though it's a mid-sized city, it has a big-city feel. Portlanders enjoy an exciting array of arts and entertainment, including a thriving restaurant scene. In short, Portland is a great place in which to live, go to school, and work.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Many Western Culinary Institute students use financial aid to help with their college costs. The school maintains a Financial Aid staff to assist you through the financial aid application process. The school is committed to helping every student, whether applying for financial aid or paying by cash, in completing their financial aid plan. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify.

For additional details on admissions, financial aid, tuition and fees, as well as placement services, other administrative policies and procedures, click here to receive complimentary information.

Western Culinary Institute
The Galleria
921 SW Morrison Street suite 400
Portland, OR 97205

Click here to receive information from the Western Culinary Institute

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