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Baking and Pastry Arts: Building a Purposeful Career

Logo of the American Culinary Federation featuring a chef's hat and elegant typography.

Keiser University offers an Associate of Science degree in Baking and Pastry Arts for students seeking to launch successful careers in the pastry arts industry. This degree program prepares aspiring pastry chefs and bakers through hands-on training and comprehensive culinary education.

Master Essential Baking and Pastry Techniques

Build professional skills in artisan bread production, plated desserts, chocolate work, and advanced pastry techniques through hands-on practice with chef instructors.

Learn from Experienced Chef Instructors

Study under experienced faculty who bring real world experience from professional kitchens, bakeries, and restaurants to prepare you for your baking career.

Study Your Way: On-Campus in Florida

Access state-of-the-art culinary facilities at campus locations across Florida where you can develop your craft through intensive, practical training.

Launch Your Pastry Career with Real World Experience

Complete an Externship that places you in professional environments, giving you the experience employers want to see.

At a Glance

72

Credit Hours

13

Major Courses

18-24

Months*

4

Week Terms*

  • Up to 12 credits of transfer credit*
  • Career opportunities as pastry chefs, cake decorators, bakery owners, and more
  • Available On-Campus
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

Baking and Pastry Arts, AS Overview

Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Baking and Pastry Arts provides comprehensive training in both the technical and creative aspects of professional baking. Students master fundamental and advanced baking techniques while learning to produce artisan bread, laminated dough, plated desserts, chocolate confections, and decorative cakes. The curriculum balances hands-on kitchen training with essential business skills like cost control, supervision, and menu planning. Through courses taught by experienced chef instructors, students develop the skills needed to create consistent, high-quality baked goods that meet professional standards.
 
The baking and pastry arts program emphasizes real world application through extensive lab work and a 12-credit externship. Students learn proper food safety practices, sanitation procedures, and professional kitchen standards while building a diverse portfolio of skills. From creating European tortes to designing wedding cakes, graduates leave prepared for immediate employment in the pastry arts industry.

Program Mission

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Baking and Pastry Arts provides instruction in the art and science of baking and pastry preparation. Students use a variety of tools and equipment to produce items such as quick breads, yeast breads, cakes, frozen desserts, centerpieces, candies, cookies and various pastries. Students also study proper foodservice sanitation, supervisory procedures and nutrition.

Program Goals

The program prepares students for entry-level positions as bakers and pastry cooks, creates an environment supporting success in the food service industry, and provides knowledge to produce various breads, desserts, and pastries at professional levels.

Prerequisites

None. The baking and pastry arts program welcomes students from all backgrounds, including recent high school graduates, career changers, and working professionals seeking to enter the foodservice industry.

Program Highlights

Students work with professional-grade equipment and tools used in commercial bakeries and restaurants. The curriculum includes specialized courses in artisan bread, chocolate work, cake decoration, and contemporary plated desserts. The externship component places students in real bakery and restaurant environments where they apply their skills under professional conditions. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention from chef instructors with industry experience. Keiser University Baking and Pastry Program, Sarasota, is accredited by the American Culinary Federation (ACF).

Program Highlights

Students work with professional-grade equipment and tools used in commercial bakeries and restaurants. The curriculum includes specialized courses in artisan bread, chocolate work, cake decoration, and contemporary plated desserts. The externship component places students in real bakery and restaurant environments where they apply their skills under professional conditions. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention from chef instructors with industry experience. Keiser University Baking and Pastry Program, Sarasota, is accredited by the American Culinary Federation (ACF).

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Program Outcomes

Please click here to view the Program Outcomes Chart.

Accreditation Statuses

Keiser University Baking and Pastry Program, Sarasota, is accredited by the American Culinary Federation Inc., 6816 Southpoint Pkwy Ste 400, Jacksonville, FL 32216, (904) 824-4468, www.acfchefs.org.

Program Outline

Available On-Campus
 
Associate of Science Degree in Baking and Pastry Arts Courses
 
The Associate of Science degree in Baking and Pastry Arts at Keiser University combines the art and science of baking with comprehensive business skills and culinary knowledge. Students work with professional equipment to create artisan bread, yeast breads, cakes, plated desserts, chocolate confections, and specialty pastries. The curriculum covers everything from basic baking techniques to advanced pastry methods, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in bakeries, restaurants, hotels, and food service operations.
 
To receive an Associate of Science degree in Baking and Pastry Arts, students must earn 72.0 credit hours. Program requirements are as follows:

Lower Division Courses

Baking and Pastry Arts Major Courses (48.0 credit hours)
Mise en Place 3.0 credit hours
Farm to Fork 3.0 credit hours
Baking 3.0 credit hours
Supervision and Cost Controls 3.0 credit hours
Pastry Basics 3.0 credit hours
Yeast Breads & Laminated Dough 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Pastry Techniques 3.0 credit hours
Specialty Yeast Breads 3.0 credit hours
Chocolates, Confections & Centerpieces 3.0 credit hours
European Tortes & Contemporary Plated Desserts 3.0 credit hours
Cake Baking Design & Decoration 3.0 credit hours
Wedding Cakes, Amenities and Showpieces 3.0 credit hours
Baking and Pastry Arts Externship 12.0 credit hours
General Education Courses (24.0 credit hours)
Behavioral Science (3.0 credit hours)
Strategies for Success 3.0 credit hours
American History Pre 1876 3.0 credit hours
American History Since 1876 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Psychology 3.0 credit hours
Sociology 3.0 credit hours
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
Speech Communications 3.0 credit hours
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Computers 3.0 credit hours
English (3.0 Credit Hours)
English Composition I 3.0 credit hours
English Composition II 3.0 credit hours
Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours)
American Literature 3.0 credit hours
English Literature 3.0 credit hours
Mathematics (3.0 credit hours)
Intermediate Algebra 3.0 credit hours
Natural Science (6.0 credit hours)
General Biology 3.0 credit hours
General Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hours
Environmental Science 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Biology 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hours
General Marine Biology 3.0 credit hours
General Chemistry 3.0 credit hours
General Chemistry Laboratory 1.0 credit hours
Advanced Chemistry 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Chemistry Laboratory 1.0 credit hours

Credit hours in parentheses indicate the required number of credit hours in each discipline. In addition, students are assigned 3.0 additional general education credit hours.

If you’re someone who loves…

Creating something beautiful with your hands, wants to turn ingredients into art, and seeks a career that brings joy to others through food,

an associate degree in baking and pastry arts might suit you perfectly.

Pastry arts students thrive on creativity, precision, and passion. They appreciate the science behind baking while embracing the artistry of dessert presentation.

Whether you dream of opening your own bakery, decorating wedding cakes, or crafting artisan breads for fine dining restaurants, this program gives you the foundation to transform your love of baking into a rewarding pastry career.

Baking and Pastry
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Top 100 Hispanic-Serving Institutions
(2024, Hispanic Outlook on Education Magazine)

U.S. News & World Report

Top 25 university in the country in providing Social Mobility, including being ranked #1 in 2023
(U.S. News & World Report)

The Chronicle of Higher Education

#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
(2023, The Chronicle of Higher Ed.)

What Jobs Can You Get with a Baking and Pastry Arts Degree?

Graduates of Keiser University’s baking and pastry arts program can pursue numerous career opportunities across the food service industry. This associate degree prepares new students for entry-level and mid-level positions in bakeries, restaurants, hotels, catering companies, and specialty dessert shops. The program combines technical pastry skills with business knowledge, enabling graduates to manage people, control costs, and eventually open their own bakery.

Career Paths in Baking and Pastry Arts

  • Pastry Chef — restaurants, hotels, country clubs
  • Cake Decorator — retail bakeries, grocery chains, custom cake studios
  • Bakery Owner — independent bakery, specialty bread shop, dessert café
  • Artisan Baker — specialty bread baker, sourdough specialist
  • Confectioner — chocolate shops, candy makers
  • Pastry Cook — fine dining restaurants, resorts
  • Wedding Cake Specialist — custom cake design studios
  • Production Baker — commercial bakeries, wholesale operations
  • Catering Pastry Chef — event venues, catering companies
  • Dessert Chef — upscale dining establishments
  • Recipe Developer — food brands, test kitchens
  • Baking Instructor — culinary schools, community education
Baking and Pastry

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Baking and Pastry Career

  • Professional baking and pastry techniques
  • Artisan bread production methods
  • Cake decoration and design
  • Chocolate tempering and confection making
  • Plated dessert presentation
  • Kitchen supervision and cost control
  • Menu planning and recipe development
  • Laminated dough techniques
  • Business operations for bakery management

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

See What Sets Keiser Apart

Keiser University Center for Culinary Arts Programs, Sarasota, Tallahassee and Melbourne campuses, are accredited by the American Culinary Federation Inc., 6816 Southpoint Pkwy Ste 400, Jacksonville, FL 32216, (904) 824-4468, www.acfchefs.org. Keiser University Center for Culinary Arts Programs, Sarasota, Melbourne, and Tallahassee campuses, are accredited by the American Culinary Federation Inc., 6816 Southpoint Pkwy 18 Ste 400, Jacksonville, FL 32216, (904) 824-4468, www.acfchefs.org.
 
The facilities for Culinary Arts students include a production kitchen, three kitchen laboratories, classrooms, and a multi-use facility for banquets, seminars, and special functions. All equipment used at Keiser University Center for Culinary Arts Programs is comparable to industry standards and effectively meets the culinary program objectives.

Students Testimonials

At Keiser University we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Jada Vidal
Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate
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“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Ryan G
Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates
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“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Tom Buchanan
Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student
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Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Kadeshia Rose
Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student
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The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate
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Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student
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I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student
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Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student
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I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student
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Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate
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What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate
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I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student
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Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student
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I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate
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Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Jillian Bellis
Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student
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Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student
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Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student
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The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate
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Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing
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I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate
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I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate
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KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student
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“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate
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I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate
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“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Osmara Cailam
Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate
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“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate
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“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer
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“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA
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“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate
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“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate
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“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate
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“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD
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“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN
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“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing
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“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate
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“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Ryan Bushey
Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production
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“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Danna Murphy
Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate
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“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Jane Krolewski
Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate
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“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate
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“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Heather S
Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate
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Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate
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When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Liska
Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic
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Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate
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I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University
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My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.
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“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University
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I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application.
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor.
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits.
  4. Enroll and choose your start date.

Chat With Us

Habla con Nosotros

Speak to Your Advisor: 1-888-534-7379

Keiser University’s pastry arts program equips students with the technical skills, creative abilities, and business knowledge needed for successful careers in professional baking. Whether you want to become a pastry chef at a fine restaurant, open your own bakery, or specialize in cake decoration, this associate degree program provides hands-on training from experienced chef instructors. With flexible campus locations across Florida and comprehensive student support services, Keiser makes it possible to pursue your career goals while balancing other life commitments.

Apply Now

Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Learning Options

Study on-campus at Florida locations. Choose one class at a time with evening and weekend options available for working adults at select campuses.

Financial Services

We’re here to help guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid available for students who qualify.

Top Questions About Earning a Baking and Pastry Arts Degree

Can I study baking and pastry arts online at Keiser University?

The Associate of Science in Baking and Pastry Arts requires hands-on kitchen training and cannot be completed entirely online. Students attend classes at campus locations equipped with professional-grade kitchens and equipment. This on-campus format ensures students receive direct instruction from chef instructors and gain the practical experience employers expect.

What's the difference between baking and pastry arts and culinary arts?

Baking and pastry arts focus specifically on breads, desserts, cakes, pastries, and chocolate work. Culinary arts covers a broader range including savory cooking, meats, sauces, and full meal preparation. While both programs share some foundational courses, baking and pastry arts students specialize in the science of baking and the art of dessert creation. Many students who enjoy the precision and creativity of baking prefer this specialized path over general culinary arts.

What careers can I pursue with an Associate Degree in Baking and Pastry Arts?

Graduates can pursue positions as pastry chefs, cake decorators, artisan bakers, bakery owners, food stylists, confectioners, and dessert specialists. Career opportunities exist in restaurants, hotels, retail bakeries, catering companies, specialty dessert shops, and food production facilities. Some graduates start their own bakery businesses or work as wedding cake specialists.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

Is financial aid available for this program?

Students in the baking and pastry arts program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

Are these programs accredited?

Keiser University holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The Center for Culinary Arts holds additional accreditation from the American Culinary Federation (AFC), demonstrating the baking and pastry program meets industry standards for professional culinary education.

Do I need prior baking experience to enroll?

No prior experience in baking or pastry arts is required. The program starts with foundational skills and progresses to advanced techniques. Students with previous baking experience may find early courses familiar, but the professional standards and techniques taught benefit all students regardless of background.

How long does it take to complete the baking and pastry arts degree?

Students typically complete the Associate of Science in Baking and Pastry Arts in 18 to 24 months when attending full-time. The timeline varies based on course load, transfer credits, and individual scheduling needs. The program requires 72 total credit hours including a 12-credit externship.

How much does it cost to earn this degree?

Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

What courses make up the baking and pastry program?

The core curriculum includes 48 credit hours of major courses covering mise en place, baking fundamentals, pastry basics, yeast breads, laminated dough, advanced pastry techniques, chocolate and confections, European tortes, plated desserts, cake decoration, wedding cakes, supervision, cost controls, and a professional externship. Students also complete 24 credit hours of general education courses in areas like English, math, science, and communications.

What happens during the Externship?

The Externship places students in professional environments where they apply skills learned in the classroom. Students work under supervision of industry professionals, gaining real world experience with production schedules, quality standards, and workplace expectations. This hands-on component helps students build confidence, make industry connections, and prepare for employment after graduation.

What equipment will I learn to use?

Students train on professional-grade equipment found in commercial bakeries and restaurants including deck ovens, convection ovens, mixers, sheeting machines, proofers, and specialized pastry tools. The program teaches proper equipment operation, maintenance, and safety procedures. This hands-on experience with industry-standard tools prepares students for employment in professional kitchens.

This Program is Available at the Following Campuses

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Keiser University

Earn Your Degree Your Way

Flexible Learning: Online, On-campus, Hybrid.

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By clicking the "Submit" button, I authorize Keiser University to make or allow the placement of recurring marketing calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. Privacy Policy