Atlantic Cape Community College’s Academy of Culinary Arts offers two baking paths in southern New Jersey: a 30-credit Baking and Pastry I certificate and a 60-credit Culinary Arts AAS with a Baking and Pastry option. Both pair pastry coursework with general culinary training and documented work experience.
The certificate follows a two-semester sequence. The AAS adds upper-level pastry subjects and a wider set of general education and culinary courses.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| School | Atlantic Cape Community College |
| Location | Mays Landing, New Jersey |
| Credentials | Baking and Pastry I Certificate; Culinary Arts AAS, Baking and Pastry Option |
| Credits | 30-credit certificate; 60-credit AAS |
| Format | Campus-based baking and pastry instruction |
| 2026–27 cost example | About $17,748.50 for the 30-credit certificate at 2026–27 local rates, based on its listed 21 program and 9 general education credits; before lab and supply charges |
Certificate and AAS Curriculum
The Fall 2026 certificate catalog lists ingredient science, bakeshop foundations, pastry, plated desserts, advanced baking, bread making, piping, sanitation, and culinary fundamentals. Its 30 credits include 21 program credits and nine general education credits.
The 60-credit AAS option adds specialty cakes, classical confections, chocolate artistry, retail bakery production and management, and broader culinary and general education study. These are distinct credentials at the same school, so compare the full sequence before enrolling.
Work Experience and Admissions
Certificate students must document 200 hours of cooperative education, internship, externship, or service learning. The AAS requires 400 hours. Ask the academy when the hours occur and which bakery or pastry placements qualify.
The AAS catalog describes a placement test and possible reading or mathematics preparation depending on the result. Applicants should confirm current placement rules, course start dates, and any academy equipment requirements with admissions.
Tuition and Additional Costs
Atlantic Cape’s current cost schedule lists $700 per credit for local residents in Academy of Culinary Arts courses, including a $400 program fee, plus mandatory per-credit charges. General education tuition is $189 per credit for Atlantic and Cape May County residents.
Using the certificate’s 21 program credits and nine general education credits, the stated tuition and mandatory fees yield an estimated $17,748.50 across two fall/spring terms for a local student. This includes two sets of semester charges but excludes extra lab fees, uniforms, supplies, and living costs. The 60-credit AAS cost depends on its mix of academy and general education credits and course timing.
Which Program Fits?
The certificate offers a shorter route to entry-level baking work and may serve as a foundation for the AAS. The degree offers more pastry subjects, 400 work-experience hours, and broader college coursework. Confirm how every certificate course applies to the degree if you plan to continue.