To get started in the Food and Hospitality Institute, complete the admissions process at El Centro College. When you meet with an academic advisor, mention your interest in the Food and Hospitality Institute so he or she can help you determine which courses you should take.

If you are planning to earn an associate degree or certificate, please note that you must complete 25 percent of your degree requirements at the college awarding the degree (El Centro).

Courses Offered (Curriculum)

Our catalog provides detailed information about the courses we offer and the courses required for the following associate degrees and certificates:

Accreditation and Advisory Committee

The programs of El Centro College’s Food and Hospitality Institute are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Accrediting Commission of the American Culinary Federation (ACF).

Our food service curriculum was developed and is continuously monitored by an industry advisory committee composed of members of:

Appetizers 

Get a taste of the Food and Hospitality Institute — including program photos, information about our Thursday luncheons and more — on the Appetizers page.

Related Programs at DCCCD

Not sure exactly what you’re looking for? You might also be interested in the Hospitality Management program at DCCCD’s North Lake College. NLC offers one Associate in Applied Sciences degree and two certificates in Hospitality Management:

Developing Skills for Success

The Kitchen Classroom Lab is a replica of a commercial kitchen with a full complement of all the equipment you’ll find on the job, set up for both small- and large-volume production. There is a separate bakery and pastry kitchen. Both are regularly inspected by the city of Dallas’ Health Department as a commercial kitchen operation.

The Computer Lab offers computer-assisted programs in such areas as safety and sanitation, supervision, purchasing, costing and other industry-related programs. Students also have Internet access and a college e-mail account. Lab assistants qualified in both computer technology and the food service industry are available at all times to help with questions.

The lab is also the place to get the latest information on daily changes around the college, apply for industry scholarships such as those offered by the Texas Restaurant Association and Roundtable for Women in Food Service, and enter contests and competitions. The computer lab is located in room C-150 and is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and on Fridays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Cooperative education and/or a practicum, depending on the specific program, plays a key role in all Food and Hospitality programs.

Faculty Profiles

Our faculty members not only have relevant degrees but also have real-world experience in the culinary profession, which makes them able to relate to the challenges you face at school and at work. Our instructors work closely with you one-on-one, helping you to apply new techniques to your job and to map a career plan to land your ultimate dream job in the food service industry. See profiles of some of our faculty.

Transferring From DCCCD

Food and Hospitality Institute courses are designed for direct entry into the workforce. However, if you are interested in earning a degree at a four-year institution, please visit the Transfer Services Web site for guidance on the transfer process.

Information Seminars and Tours of the Food and Hospitality Institute

All prospective students interested in the Food and Hospitality Institute are strongly encouraged to attend an information session. For times and registration information, call El Centro’s:

Supplies and Uniforms

Find out what supplies and uniforms are required for:

Contact Us

If you have questions about the Food and Hospitality Institute that aren’t answered on our Web site, please feel free to contact us.