Top 10 Sous Chef Certifications

Certifications for a sous chef are important in the job market because they show potential employers that the applicant has specific skills and knowledge to do the job. Certifications demonstrate that the individual is competent in areas such as kitchen safety, food preparation, recipe development, and menu planning. They also signify that the sous chef has taken initiative to expand their expertise beyond what is required of them. Additionally, certifications provide evidence that the sous chef can take on more responsibility and handle higher-level tasks. Employers view certified sous chefs as reliable and trustworthy individuals who have experience working in professional kitchens.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the various certifications available for sous chefs and to explain how these can help advance their careers.

What are Sous Chef Certifications?

Sous chef certification is a professional credential that recognizes the culinary skills and abilities of sous chefs. A sous chef is a professional cook who is second-in-command in a kitchen, typically beneath an executive or head chef. The sous chef certification is earned by passing an exam administered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). This certification demonstrates to employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective sous chef.

The ACF's Sous Chef Certification program was created to provide a standard for recognizing proficiency in the field of culinary arts. To earn this credential, individuals must pass a written exam that tests their knowledge of food safety, nutrition, menu planning, cost control, sanitation and food preparation techniques. Those who successfully pass the exam are awarded with either a Certified Sous Chef (CSC) or Certified Executive Sous Chef (CEC) designation.

The benefits of achieving sous chef certification include higher pay and career advancement opportunities. Having this certification can also give individuals more credibility with employers as they demonstrate their commitment to mastering the craft of cooking and working in a professional kitchen setting. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire certified chefs as it ensures that their staff meets specific standards for quality and safety. Furthermore, having this credential can help distinguish individuals from other job applicants when seeking employment opportunities in high-end restaurants or hotels.

Pro tip: Before attempting to obtain a sous chef certification, it is important to gain experience in the kitchen. Gain as much experience as you can in all areas of the kitchen, including knife skills, food safety and sanitation, menu planning and execution, and more. This will help ensure that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to pass your certification exam.

Related: What does a Sous Chef do?

Top 10 Sous Chef Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Sous Chefs today.

1. Certified Executive Chef (CEC)

Certified Executive Chef (CEC) is a professional certification from the American Culinary Federation (ACF). It is the highest level of certification offered by the ACF and recognizes individuals who have attained a high level of culinary knowledge, skill, and experience. The CEC designation is awarded to chefs who have met stringent requirements in areas such as education, experience, and demonstration of culinary skills.

It typically takes four to five years to obtain the CEC designation. To be eligible for the CEC certification, chefs must first become an ACF Certified Sous Chef or higher level certification. In addition, they must have at least five years of full-time work experience in a commercial kitchen or related foodservice environment. They must also complete at least 75 hours of continuing education credits from approved sources within a three-year period prior to applying for the CEC certification.

The cost for obtaining the CEC designation varies depending on which route you take. The most common route is through taking an approved course from an accredited college or university; this can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 depending on the program. Additionally, there are other options available such as online courses that may be more cost effective.

Once all requirements are met and fees paid, applicants will need to pass an exam administered by the ACF in order to receive their CEC designation.

2. Certified Sous Chef (CSC)

A Certified Sous Chef (CSC) is a professional culinary certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of an experienced sous chef. It is a voluntary certification program offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). The CSC designation is designed to identify those individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in the areas of food preparation, sanitation, safety, nutrition, and management.

To earn the CSC credential, candidates must meet certain prerequisites and pass an ACF-administered exam. Prerequisites include having at least three years of full-time work experience as a sous chef or equivalent position in a commercial foodservice establishment. Candidates must also complete an approved ACF educational program or apprenticeship program within the past five years prior to taking the exam.

The CSC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as food production, nutrition, sanitation and safety, cost control and purchasing, personnel management, menu planning and design, equipment operation and maintenance, and communication skills. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CSC exam varies depending on whether you are an ACF member or nonmember. For members it costs $295; for nonmembers it costs $395.

3. American Culinary Federation Certified Sous Chef (ACF-CSC)

The American Culinary Federation Certified Sous Chef (ACF-CSC) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of experienced sous chefs. It is the highest level of certification offered by the American Culinary Federation (ACF). The ACF-CSC demonstrates a commitment to culinary excellence, professionalism, and leadership in the kitchen.

It typically takes two to three years to become an ACF-CSC. To qualify for this certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience as a working sous chef in a commercial kitchen, pass an exam, and complete continuing education credits.

To get certified as an ACF-CSC, applicants must first join the ACF as a Professional Member. After joining, they can apply for the certification online or through mail. They will then be required to take and pass an exam which covers topics such as food safety and sanitation, nutrition, menu planning and development, culinary techniques, and management principles. Once they have passed the exam they will receive their certificate from the ACF.

The cost of becoming an ACF-CSC varies depending on whether you are already an ACF Professional Member or not. If you are already a member then it will cost $195 to apply for the certification plus any applicable taxes or fees. If you are not yet a member then it will cost $225 plus any applicable taxes or fees.

4. ServSafe Sous Chef Certification

ServSafe Sous Chef Certification is a professional certification program offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The certification is designed to help sous chefs demonstrate their knowledge and skills in food safety, sanitation, and menu planning.

To get the ServSafe Sous Chef Certification, you must first complete an online course that covers topics such as food safety regulations, food-borne illnesses, personal hygiene, cleaning and sanitizing procedures, and proper storage techniques. After completing the online course, you will need to pass a proctored exam with a score of 80% or higher. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

The cost of the ServSafe Sous Chef Certification program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it can range from $150-$250 for the online course and proctored exam.

5. Professional Culinary Arts Diploma from a recognized culinary school

A Professional Culinary Arts Diploma from a recognized culinary school is a certificate program that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a professional chef. It typically takes one to two years to complete the program, depending on the school and the student's prior experience. Students learn about food safety, nutrition, menu planning, food preparation techniques, kitchen management, and more.

To get a Professional Culinary Arts Diploma from a recognized culinary school, students must first apply for admission. Admission requirements vary by school but typically include an application fee and submission of transcripts or other academic records. Once accepted into the program, students take courses in culinary arts fundamentals such as knife skills, sanitation and safety practices, menu planning and development, food production methods, kitchen management principles and more. Some schools may also require an internship or externship in order to gain hands-on experience in a professional kitchen setting.

The cost of obtaining a Professional Culinary Arts Diploma from a recognized culinary school varies depending on the institution and location. Tuition costs can range anywhere from $5,000-$20,000 or more for the entire program. Additional fees may be required for books and supplies as well as any internships or externships that are part of the curriculum.

6. Certified Culinary Educator (CCE)

Certified Culinary Educator (CCE) is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have attained the highest level of culinary education. The CCE certification is offered by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation (ACFEF).

It typically takes three to five years to complete the requirements for CCE certification. To become certified, individuals must complete an ACFEF-accredited program in Culinary Arts or Foodservice Management, have at least five years of experience working in the culinary field, and pass a comprehensive exam.

The cost of the CCE certification varies depending on the individual’s educational background and experience. The cost includes an application fee, examination fee, and annual renewal fees. The total cost can range from $400 to $1,000.

The benefits of becoming a Certified Culinary Educator include increased job opportunities and higher wages as well as recognition from peers and employers for having achieved this level of excellence in culinary education.

7. Certified Foodservice Professional (CFP)

Certified Foodservice Professional (CFP) is a professional certification program developed by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The CFP certification is designed to recognize foodservice professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of food safety, sanitation, nutrition, menu planning, customer service, financial management and operations.

To become a Certified Foodservice Professional (CFP), you must complete an approved training program and pass an exam. The training program consists of three courses: Food Safety & Sanitation, Nutrition & Menu Planning and Financial Management & Operations. Each course requires 40 hours of instruction and can be completed online or in a classroom setting.

Once you have completed the required courses and passed the exam, you will receive your CFP certification. This certification is valid for five years from the date of issue.

The cost of becoming a Certified Foodservice Professional (CFP) varies depending on where you take the courses. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1000 to complete all three courses and take the exam.

8. National Restaurant Association Education Foundation’s Certified Foodservice Executive (CFSE)

The National Restaurant Association Education Foundation's Certified Foodservice Executive (CFSE) program is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the foodservice industry. It is designed for individuals who have achieved a high level of professional expertise in foodservice operations, management, and leadership.

The CFSE program consists of two parts: an online assessment and an in-person exam. The online assessment tests knowledge and competency in areas such as menu planning, financial management, customer service, nutrition, sanitation, safety, personnel management, and marketing. The in-person exam tests skills such as problem solving, decision making, communication, and leadership.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CFSE program. During this time period, candidates must complete the online assessment and attend a three-day workshop that covers topics such as food safety regulations, nutrition principles, customer service strategies, financial management techniques, personnel management procedures, and more. After completing the workshop and passing the online assessment with a score of 70% or higher on each section of the exam, candidates can then sit for the in-person exam.

The cost of obtaining a CFSE certification is $1125 USD plus any applicable taxes. This fee includes all course materials needed to prepare for both exams as well as access to an online learning portal with additional resources to help candidates study for their exams.

9. Advanced Certificate in Culinary Arts from a recognized culinary school

The Advanced Certificate in Culinary Arts from a recognized culinary school is an intensive program designed to give students the skills and knowledge to become professional chefs. The program typically takes two years to complete and consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on training in the kitchen.

To get the certificate, students must first complete a basic culinary arts program at a recognized culinary school. This usually involves completing courses such as food safety, nutrition, menu planning, baking, and cooking techniques. After completing the basic program, students can then apply for the advanced certificate program.

The cost of an advanced certificate in culinary arts will vary depending on the school you choose to attend. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from around $5,000 to $20,000 or more depending on the length of the program and other factors such as location and type of institution. Additional fees may also be required for books and supplies.

Once students have completed their studies they will receive their Advanced Certificate in Culinary Arts from a recognized culinary school which will demonstrate that they have achieved a high level of proficiency in all aspects of cooking and baking. This certificate can open doors to further career opportunities within the hospitality industry or even lead to starting one’s own business.

10. American Academy of Chefs' Certified Master Chef (CMC)

The Certified Master Chef (CMC) is the highest professional certification available to chefs in the United States. It is awarded by the American Academy of Chefs, a professional organization for culinary professionals and a part of the American Culinary Federation. The CMC certification is designed to recognize those who have achieved excellence in their field and are dedicated to advancing the culinary arts.

To become a Certified Master Chef, an individual must demonstrate mastery of all aspects of culinary arts and sciences, including food production, nutrition, menu planning, sanitation and safety, management skills, and teaching methods. Candidates must have at least 10 years of professional experience in the culinary industry and must pass a rigorous examination that includes written tests as well as practical demonstrations.

The process typically takes two to three years to complete. During this time, candidates must attend formal classes and workshops offered by the American Academy of Chefs or other accredited institutions. They must also complete an extensive portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and expertise in all aspects of cooking. After completing all requirements for certification, candidates must then pass an oral examination administered by a panel of Certified Master Chefs from around the country.

The cost for obtaining CMC certification varies depending on how many courses or workshops are taken during the process but can range from $2,000-$5,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Sous Chef Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a sous chef certificate to be a sous chef. However, there are many advantages to obtaining one. A sous chef certificate provides formal recognition of your culinary skills and knowledge, which can help you stand out in the job market. It also demonstrates your commitment to the profession and can open doors to more advanced positions in the future.

A sous chef certificate program will typically include coursework on topics such as food safety, nutrition, recipe development, menu planning, and kitchen management. You’ll learn how to run a professional kitchen and gain hands-on experience with various cooking techniques. The program will also provide an opportunity to network with other chefs and industry professionals.

In some cases, a sous chef certificate may be required for certain jobs or promotions. If you have ambitions of advancing your career in the culinary arts, having a certification can give you an edge over other applicants who don’t have one.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a sous chef certificate depends on your individual career goals. If you want to make yourself more competitive in the job market or gain access to higher paying positions down the road, it could be worth pursuing one.

Related: Sous Chef Resume Examples

FAQs About Sous Chef Certifications

1. What is a sous chef certification?

Answer: A sous chef certification is a professional qualification demonstrating expertise in culinary techniques, food safety and kitchen management. It is typically awarded by culinary schools or associations after completion of an approved course or program.

2. How long does it take to get a sous chef certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to obtain a sous chef certification depends on the type of program chosen and the individual's commitment to completing the requirements. Most programs can be completed within two years if taken full-time, or three to four years if taken part-time.

3. What are the benefits of having a sous chef certification?

Answer: Having a sous chef certification demonstrates knowledge and expertise in culinary techniques and food safety, as well as kitchen management skills that can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the hospitality industry. It also provides an opportunity to network with other professionals in the field, as well as gain access to continuing education opportunities.

4. Is there an exam required for obtaining a sous chef certification?

Answer: Yes, most programs require participants to pass an exam in order to receive their sous chef certification. The exam typically covers topics such as knife skills, cooking methods and food safety protocols.

5. Do I need any prior experience before enrolling in a sous chef certification program?

Answer: Some programs may require prior experience working in the hospitality industry, while others may not have any prerequisites for enrollment. It's important to check with the institution offering the program before enrolling to make sure you meet all of their requirements for participation.