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Culinary Studies Institute

Go to Culinary School

Prepare for a career in the culinary arts! Become an executive chef with real-world industry experience.

Our culinary arts program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation. Experience hands-on cooking and baking coursework. Gain top-notch skills that span the culinary industry, including: 

  • Cost analysis
  • Event planning
  • Guest services
  • Menu development
  • Wine and spirits

Compete in food competitions. Be part of OCC's award-winning Ice Carving Team. Find your fit here.

 

Register for a Culinary Orientation Session

Fill out our inquiry form to register for a Culinary Orientation Session.

For general questions call (248) 246-2501.

 

Choose Your Culinary Career Pathway

Are you a foodie looking to advance your skills as a baker or chef? Or do you want to explore a career in hospitality management? The Culinary program at OCC teaches hands-on skills. Learn techniques that advance your career in the food and service industry. 

Culinary Arts Degree

The Culinary Arts program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation. The curriculum prepares students for a career in culinary arts that may lead to an executive chef position with industry experience. Learn more about the Culinary Arts Degree.

Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate

The Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate is designed to prepare the student for a career in Baking and Pastry Arts. Some Pastry Chefs may specialize in breads, tortes or even wedding cake design. Learn more about the Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate. 

Hospitality Management Certificate

This certificate program is designed to develop skills and knowledge essential for employment in the hospitality industry including food and beverage operations, guest services, sales and event planning. Learn more about the Hospitality Management Certificate.

Food Service Foundations Certificate

Whether you're aiming to launch a restaurant career or master the basics of culinary arts, OCC's Food Service Foundations certificate delivers hands-on training in a cutting-edge facility—allowing you to earn your credential in as little as one year. Learn more about the Food Service Foundations Certificate.

 

 

 

Your Culinary Future Starts Here

Step inside OCC's new state-of-the-art Culinary Studies Institute, where you'll learn from industry professionals, gain hands-on experience and develop the skills and confidence to turn your passion for food into a career.

 

Community Cooking Classes

OCC’s Community Education program offers culinary classes for community members of all ages, from family classes like cookie decorating to wine tasting. We're always adding new courses, so come see what Community Education at OCC is cooking up. 

Explore community cooking classes

 

Chef Bardell

Chef Bardell Delivers Culinary Flair to Seniors

“Think like an artist, follow your passion, and find inspiration around you.” Read Chef Bardell's story.

 

Our Student-Run Restaurants

Visit one of our student-run restaurants open to both on-campus staff and students as well as the general public. Menu items are freshly prepared by OCC culinary students. 

Seasoned Oak: Includes a pre-selected, multi-course meal at a set price and a la carte cafe items. Seating is limited and by reservation only. 

Sweet Oak Cafe: Enjoy a wide selection of grab-and-go breakfast and lunch items as you explore Royal Oak.   

 

Upcoming Culinary Events

View All Events
Nov 11 2026
11:15AMRoyal Oak - E Building

High Tea

Join us for an afternoon of elegance at our High Tea Luncheon. Delight in a variety of fine teas,...

Jan 29 2027
11:15AMRoyal Oak Campus

Fork-Casting a Delicious Year Buffet

Ring in the New Year with a festive self-serve buffet featuring imaginative seasonal dishes bursting...

Feb 26 2027
6:00PMRoyal Oak - E Building

Spanish Carnival

Spanish Carnival brings the energy, color, and flavors of Spain to an unforgettable evening of dining...

Apr 14 2027
11:15AMRoyal Oak - E Building

High Tea Luncheon

Join us for an afternoon of elegance at our High Tea Luncheon. Delight in a variety of fine teas,...

 

Register for a Culinary Orientation Session

Fill out our inquiry form to register for a Culinary Orientation Session. For general questions call (248) 246-2501.

 

Prepare to Transfer – Even if You Are Not Planning to Today! 

Maximize your OCC-applicable credits upon transfer. Plan early and work with an OCC counselor or advisor throughout your OCC experience. If you pursue an associate in applied science, you may satisfy the Michigan Transfer Agreement by taking as few as four additional courses. Save time, money and aggravation!

Whatever your program of study, OCC has many Transfer Credit Agreements with colleges and universities to help you navigate your way to a bachelor's degree. View the College Transfer Success Guide for more information.

 

More Culinary News

OCC Chef Norman Valenti Named Michigan “Chef of the Year"

October 29, 2026

Chef Norman Valenti, CEC, Culinary faculty and competition team coach at Oakland Community College's Culinary Studies Institute, has been named 2026 “Chef of the Year” by the American Culinary Federation’s Michigan Chefs de Cuisine Association...

American Culinary Federation Names OCC Chef Educator of the Year

July 09, 2026

Julie Selonke, CEC, Culinary Management Instructor and Program Coordinator at OCC’s Culinary Studies Institute, has been named the 2026 American Culinary Federation (ACF) National Educator of the Year, earning a gold medal score in the organization’s...

WDIV Brings Live Royal Oak Views from Atop OCC’s Culinary Building

May 15, 2026

The next time you see a live view of Royal Oak during a WDIV Local 4 weather forecast, it will be coming to you from Oakland Community College (OCC).

 

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Contact Information

Christina Santos
Email: clsantos@oaklandcc.edu
Phone: (248) 246-2501

We are located at:

Royal Oak Campus
E Building
739 S. Washington Ave
Royal Oak, MI 48067