Split across two peninsulas, Michigan offers two entirely different living experiences. Overall, there are almost 9.9 million people living in Michigan, many of whom are located in or near Michigan’s largest cities. Some of Michigan’s main cities include Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Warren. These cities are home to some of Michigan’s best restaurants, including Lagniappe Cajun Creole Eatery, Thai Orchid, and Red Mesa Grill.
The cost of living in Michigan is 12% below the national average. In combination with the low average home price in Michigan, which the U.S. Census Bureau reports is more than $50,000 below the national average, you can live in Michigan on a student budget.
Michigan is home to 18 culinary schools, including four that have graduate-level programs. The average cost of tuition in the state is $8,824, which can make getting your degree very affordable. You can save even more money by applying for scholarships, since the average scholarship award in Michigan is $2,827.
One of the first things you have to decide as a culinary student is what type of degree you want to earn. Most schools offer a certificate or Associate’s degree program. A certificate can generally be earned in one year or less, while an Associate’s degree takes about two years of full-time study. A Bachelor’s degree is the most lengthy option, requiring about four years of full-time study.
Each culinary program has a slightly different structure, but all of them have a strong focus on the basics. While menu planning and food pairing are both important, you can’t get a restaurant job without knowing the differences between dicing, julienning, and mincing. Not only do you have to understand restaurant terminology, you need to be able to carry out these tasks promptly and efficiently.
In addition to kitchen and culinary skills, you may have the chance to learn more about the business aspect of being a chef. This is beneficial if you plan on owning your own restaurant or catering company. Schools like Dorsey Business School allow you to learn about business and management.
There are many different career paths you can pursue as a Michigan chef. Most chefs work in restaurants, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you don’t want to work in a restaurant, you can look into becoming a private chef or caterer. Private chefs and caterers tend to work more erratic hours than restaurant chefs, but they may get to serve a wider variety of clients.
Some of the largest culinary employers in Michigan are Landry’s Restaurants Inc., Levy Restaurants, and Harper Associates. If you would prefer to be self-employed, consider opening your own restaurant or catering company.
In Michigan, you do not need a license or certificate to work as a chef or cook. This is beneficial for you, since you don’t have to worry about any delays after you complete your culinary program. While certification is not required, you can pursue optional certification through the American Culinary Federation. This certification can demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.
As a chef, your salary is affected by a number of variables. In general, the more experience and responsibility you have, the more money you can earn. Executive chefs are usually the highest paid chefs in a kitchen, followed by sous chefs and line chefs.
The average cook’s salary in Michigan is $21,400 per year (O*Net, 2012). Chefs earn an average salary of $36,600 per year (O*Net, 2012).
The need for culinary professionals is generally expected to grow between 2010 and 2020. Job openings for cooks are expected to increase by 11% between 2010 and 2020 (O*Net, 2010).The outlook for chefs is not expected to change significantly in the same time frame.