Culinary Arts – Italian Program
(Postgraduate)
(H411)

2022-20232023-2024
  • Program Name:
    Culinary Arts – Italian
  • Code: H411
  • Credential:
    Ontario College Graduate Certificate
  • Method of Study:
    Full-time
  • Duration:
    3 semesters
  • Centre:
  • School: Chef School
  • Location: St. James Campus
  • Starting Months: May
  • Domestic Tuition:
    $12,204.00 * ‡ ^
  • International Tuition:
    $31,518.00 ** ‡ ^
  • Experiential Learning:

    We believe in learning by doing, and that is why we have incorporated work-integrated learning opportunities into all CHCA programs.

  • Winter 2023 Delivery:
    Semester 3: Hybrid
  • Spring 2023 Delivery:
    Semester 1: Hybrid; Semester 3: Not Available

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

Do you want to learn Italian cooking? Elevate your career by joining this specialized Italian culinary and culture program; learn from the experts here in Canada and live, learn and work in Italy too! Acquire the techniques that make Italian cuisine famous around the world. Experience the special connection between food and life in Italy. Embrace the kitchen experiences and courses in Italian art and culture that will deepen your understanding of this great tradition. The Culinary Arts – Italian postgraduate program delivers this and more.

Full Description

Through this program, you will:

  • Experience hands-on learning in both Canada and Italy with pre-eminent Italian chef professors in the country.
  • Build your knowledge of Italian culinary traditions and embrace emerging trends in Italian cuisine.
  • Benefit from our partnership with ALMA, the world-famous Scuola Internazionale di Cucina Italiana, near Parma, Italy, which is one of Italy’s finest chef schools.
  • Experience the vineyards, cheese producers and local markets of Italy as your open-air classroom.
  • Study in some of the best restaurants and hotels in Italy, where you will get attention, training and an inspiring experience.

You will put theory into practice as you are showcased alongside Italian top talent and serve discerning urban diners in the heart of Toronto’s culinary scene. After your experiences in Italy, showcase what you’ve learned at The Chefs' House, George Brown's signature restaurant.

This program has a long-standing reputation for excellence among Italian restaurateurs in Toronto and beyond, which will make you a sought-after employee when you graduate.

To get a taste of this exciting program, check out our Interactive Culinary Arts – Italian flipbook.

Program Schedule

The schedule for the Culinary Arts – Italian postgraduate program currently operates from Monday to Friday.

Note: some classes may begin at 7 a.m. and others may run until 10 p.m.

Your Field Education Options

Study in some of the best restaurants and hotels in Italy, where you will receive individual attention, training and an inspiring experience. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed industry work experience opportunities within Culinary Management that they believe will provide the learning experiences they value and meet the learning outcomes of the program. This valuable work experience can be added to your resumé. 

In addition to more formal on-the-job work experience, George Brown College endeavours to provide learning opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at the Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate demonstrates the ability to:

  1. Create and implement an authentic Italian menu, including food preparation and service, and the selection of wines that reflect the regional differences found in Italy.
  2. Converse in basic Italian and use the correct Italian terminology within a culinary operation.
  3. Identify, assess and select appropriate food products for authentic Italian cuisine.
  4. Integrate with Italian culture through the use of language, interpersonal interactions and professional conduct.
  5. Prepare Italian cuisine within Canadian and EU health, safety and nutrition regulations, standards, guidelines and processes.
  6. Develop and present a marketing plan for a restaurant consistent with regional demographics and culture.

Courses

Required Courses

SEMESTER 1

Code Course Name
HOSF1150 Italian Art and Culture: A Culinary Perspective
HOSF1151 Italian Language
HOSF1152 Fundamentals of Italian Cooking – Theory and Practical
HOSF1153 Dynamics of Italian Food and Wine
HOSF1154 Italian Pastry

SEMESTER 2 (ITALY)

Code Course Name
HOSF1164 Italian Externship – Stage (12 weeks)
HOSF4016 Italian Culinary Cuisine Concepts
HOSF4018 Italian Product Knowledge

SEMESTER 3

Code Course Name
HOSF1170 The Slow Food Experience
HOSF1173 Integrated Marketing Management for Restaurant Operations
HOSF1174 Fundamentals of Italian Cooking II – Capstone Evaluation

 

The course curriculum is continually being enhanced and courses may be modified. Changes are pending Ministry approval. Please check georgebrown.ca for the most up-to-date information.

General Education Electives

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Career Options

A knowledge of Italian cooking opens up an abundance of opportunities in Toronto, which has one of the largest Italian populations of any city outside Italy. Wherever you go, there are Italian restaurants, many specializing in one of the regional variations of Italian cuisine. All these options mean you’ll have a dynamic and varied career.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$12,204.00 * ‡ ^

International Tuition

$31,518.00 ** ‡ ^

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, ancillary fees, student service and materials (includes daily classes, tours and accommodation at ALMA Cooking School) for the three semesters of programs starting in fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in fall 2022 and at later dates.

** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the three semesters of the program starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for program semesters starting at later dates.

Additional Cost

Description

TITLE COST
Uniform $290
Knives and small wares $500-$700
Italian language books and manuals $150
Black safety shoes $110-$160
Airfare to Italy(approximate) $1,400-$1,800
Visa fee (approximate) $75-$85

†(approximate) based on exchange rate, applicable taxes, double occupancy and airport transfer. Fees do not include transfer costs to placements. Students must also pay a €200 damage deposit on ALMA accommodation, refundable upon checking out.

^ First semester materials fee includes culinary and make manuals.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Financial Assistance

This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

  • diploma or bachelor's degree in Culinary Management

OR

  • one-year certificate in Culinary Skills program or Advanced Cook certification AND a minimum of one-year relevant work experience (resumé and references required)

OR

  • a diploma or bachelor's degree in an unrelated field AND a minimum of one-year full-time relevant work experience (resumé and references required)

English Language Proficiency

Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English language proficiency test results must test at the college level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission.

Please visit English Proficiency for more details.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

Health Policy

Students should be aware that various allergens including nuts, dairy and shellfish are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances; however, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to halal and kosher foods.

How to Apply

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Student Success

Sonya Franceschini, 2003 Graduate

After deciding to pursue a long-term interest in the restaurant industry, Sonya Franceschini was immediately drawn to the Culinary Arts – Italian program at George Brown, the only program in Ontario with an exclusive partnership with ALMA Scuola di Cucina.

The reputation of the George Brown Chef School appealed to her, as did the four-month externship in Italy that comprises the second semester of the program.

After being accepted into the program and starting school, Sonya was struck by how small and well organized the classes were. “It was a highly professional atmosphere,” she says. “And because it’s a postgraduate program, everyone was really enthusiastic to be there.”

Marvin Palomo, 2013 Graduate

"Never would I have thought that this program would change my life forever. Till this day I recommend this program to people who are willing to push themselves to the limit as a cook. When this program started, it was a non-stop push, from high-intensity cooking classes to language building and wine tasting. I always refer to it as 'cooking boot camp,' which is what I needed as a young cook. Chef Tomaselli was the perfect person to break me down and mould me to be prepared for my journey to come.

The second semester consisted of working four months in Italy, spending the first three weeks in ALMA Scuola di Cucina where we learned how to cook classic and modern Italian food from some of the best chefs in Italy. It was no joke when we were in the kitchen; the quality of products was amazing, which is why food was taken so seriously when we would cook. The passion, love and emotion from not just the chefs but the people there were amazing to witness. Our class was also lucky to visit wineries, farms, markets and amazing restaurants.

As I returned to Canada to finish my last semester, I had the chance to work at The Chefs’ House, where I had the pleasure to work under Chef Bennett, Chef Li and Chef Fernandes. It was at The Chefs’ House where I was able to create and execute a four-course tasting menu inspired by my time in Italy. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to work for my last placement as I learned many great things that moulded me into the cook I am today."

Kathlyne Ross, 1994/1995 Graduate

Kathlyne Ross is a graduate of the Culinary Management Program as well as the Italian Culinary Program. She jokes that she gets paid to eat and travel, but the Loblaw Vice-President takes her role as taste trendsetter seriously, travelling internationally in search of new flavours and cuisines. Responsible for strategic direction and vision for Loblaw's President's Choice and other private-label brands, Ross oversees a team of 35 and 9,000 products. Named one of 25 Women Changing the Way We Eat Now by Chatelaine and a Canadian Grocer Star Woman, Ross is a cheese expert and member of the Guilde Internationale des Fromagers. Before joining Loblaw in 2001, Ross worked as a chef in Australia and Ontario.

Contact Us

DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS

For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.

FINANCIAL/FEES

For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.

CULINARY ARTS - ITALIAN (H411)

For general Chef School inquiries, please contact chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.

Sign up for our Open House Discovery Day

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

Culinary Arts – Italian Program
(Postgraduate)
(H411)

2022-20232023-2024
  • Program Name:
    Culinary Arts – Italian
  • Code: H411
  • Credential:
    Ontario College Graduate Certificate
  • Method of Study:
    Full-time
  • Duration:
    3 semesters
  • Centre:
  • School: Chef School
  • Location: St. James Campus
  • Starting Months: May, September
  • Domestic Tuition:
    $12,131.00 * ‡
  • Experiential Learning:

    We believe in learning by doing and that is why we have incorporated work integrated learning opportunities into all CHCA programs.

  • Winter 2022 Delivery:
    Semester 2: Hybrid
  • Spring 2022 Delivery:
    Semester 1, 3: Hybrid

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

Do you want to learn Italian cooking? Elevate your career by joining this specialized Italian culinary and culture program; learn from the experts here in Canada and live, learn and work in Italy too! Acquire the techniques that make Italian cuisine famous around the world. Experience the special connection between food and life in Italy. Embrace the kitchen experiences and courses in Italian art and culture that will deepen your understanding of this great tradition. The Culinary Arts – Italian postgraduate program delivers this and more.

Full Description

Through this program, you will:

  • Experience hands-on learning in both Canada and Italy with the pre-eminent Italian chef professors in the country.
  • Build your knowledge of Italian culinary traditions and embrace emerging trends in Italian cuisine.
  • Benefit from our partnership with ALMA, the world-famous Scuola Internazionale di Cucina Italiana, near Parma, Italy, which is one of Italy’s finest chef schools.
  • Experience the vineyards, cheese producers and local markets of Italy as your open-air classroom.
  • Study in some of the best restaurants and hotels in Italy, where you will get attention, training and an inspiring experience.

You will put theory into practice as you are showcased alongside Italian top talent and serve discerning urban diners in the heart of Toronto’s culinary scene. After your experiences in Italy, showcase what you’ve learned at The Chefs' House, George Brown's signature restaurant.

This program has a long-standing reputation for excellence among Italian restaurateurs in Toronto and beyond, which will make you a sought-after employee when you graduate. “Che bello.”

To get a taste of this exciting program, check out our Interactive Culinary Arts – Italian flipbook.

Program Schedule

The schedule for the Culinary Arts – Italian postgraduate program currently operates from Monday to Friday.

Note: some classes may begin at 7 a.m. and others may run until 10 p.m.

Your Field Education Options

Study in some of the best restaurants and hotels in Italy, where you will get attention, training and an inspiring experience. George Brown works with employers and industry partners to identify potential work experience opportunities. Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue self-directed industry work experience opportunities within Culinary Management they believe will provide the learning experiences they value and meet the learning outcomes of the program. This valuable work experience can be added to your resume.

In addition to more formal on-the-job work experience, George Brown College endeavours to provide learning opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at the Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Create and implement an authentic Italian menu including food preparation and service, and the selection of wines that reflect the regional differences found in Italy.
  2. Converse in basic Italian and use the correct Italian terminology within a culinary operation.
  3. Identify, assess and select appropriate food products for authentic Italian Cuisine.
  4. Integrate into the Italian culture through the use of language, interpersonal interactions and professional conduct.
  5. Prepare Italian cuisine within Canadian and EU Health, Safety and Nutrition regulations, standards, guidelines and processes.
  6. Develop and present a marketing plan for a restaurant consistent with regional demographics and culture.

Courses

Required Courses

SEMESTER 1

Code Course Name
HOSF1150 Italian Art and Culture: A Culinary Perspective
HOSF1151 Italian Language
HOSF1152 Fundamentals of Italian Cooking – Theory and Practical
HOSF1154 Italian Pastry
HOSF1170 The Slow Food Experience

SEMESTER 2

Code Course Name
HOSF1153 Dynamics of Italian Food and Wine
HOSF1173 Integrated Marketing Management for Restaurant Operations
HOSF1174 Fundamentals of Italian Cooking II - Capstone Evaluation

SEMESTER 3 (SEMESTER IN ITALY)

Code Course Name
HOSF1164 Italian Externship – Stage (12 weeks)
HOSF4016 Italian Culinary Cuisine Concepts
HOSF4017 Fundamentals of Italian Cooking II
HOSF4018 Italian Product Knowledge

The course curriculum is continually being enhanced and courses may be modified. Changes are pending Ministry approval. Please check georgebrown.ca for the most up-to-date information.

General Education Electives

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

A knowledge of Italian cooking opens up an abundance of opportunities in Toronto, which has the largest Italian population of any city outside Italy, and around the world. Wherever you go, there are Italian restaurants, many specializing in one of the regional variations of Italian cuisine. All these options mean you’ll have a dynamic and varied career.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$12,131.00 * ‡

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, ancillary fees, student service and materials (includes daily classes, tours and accommodation at ALMA Cooking School) for the three semesters of programs starting in fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in fall 2021 and at later dates.

Additional Cost

Description

Cost
Uniform $290
Knives and small wares $500-$700
Italian language books and manuals $150
Black safety shoes $110-$160
Airfare to Italy(approximate) $1,400-$1,800
Visa fee (approximate) $75-$85

†(approximate) based on exchange rate, applicable taxes, double occupancy & airport transfer. Fees do not include transfer costs to placements. Students must also pay a 200 Euro damage deposit on ALMA accommodation, refundable upon checking out.

** First semester materials fee includes Culinary & Bake manuals.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Financial Assistance

This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

  • Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Management

OR

  • One-year certificate in Culinary Skills program or Advanced Cook certification AND a minimum of one-year relevant work experience (resume and references required)

OR

  • A Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in an unrelated field AND a minimum of one-year full-time relevant work experience (resume and references required)

English Language Proficiency

Applicants with international transcripts who do not provide English language proficiency test results must test at the College level in the George Brown College English assessment to be considered for admission.

Please visit English Proficiency for more details.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

Health Policy

Students should be aware that various allergens including nuts, dairy and shellfish are routinely used in practical labs. Students should also note that George Brown College is sensitive to religious observances; however, while products purchased for production and consumption meet all provincial and federal regulations, they may not meet specific dietary laws related to Halal and Kosher foods.

How to Apply

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Student Success

Sonya Franceschini, 2003 Graduate

After deciding to pursue a long-term interest in the restaurant industry, Sonya Franceschini was immediately drawn to the Culinary Arts – Italian program at George Brown, the only program in Ontario with an exclusive partnership with ALMA Scuola di Cucina.

The reputation of the George Brown Chef School appealed to her, as did the four-month externship in Italy that comprises the second semester of the program.

After being accepted into the program and starting school, Sonya was struck by how small and well organized the classes were. “It was a highly professional atmosphere,” she says. “And because it’s a postgraduate program, everyone was really enthusiastic to be there.”

Marvin Palomo, 2013 Graduate

"Never would I have thought that this program would change my life forever. Till this day I recommend this program to people who are willing to push themselves to the limit as a cook. When this program started, it was a non-stop push, from high-intensity cooking classes to language building and wine tasting. I always refer to it as 'cooking boot camp,' which is what I needed as a young cook. Chef Tomaselli was the perfect person to break me down and mould me to be prepared for my journey to come.

The second semester consisted of working four months in Italy, spending the first three weeks in ALMA Scuola di Cucina where we learned how to cook classic and modern Italian food from some of the best chefs in Italy. It was no joke when we were in the kitchen; the quality of products was amazing, which is why food was taken so seriously when we would cook. The passion, love and emotion from not just the chefs but the people there were amazing to witness. Our class was also lucky to visit wineries, farms, markets and amazing restaurants.

As I returned to Canada to finish my last semester, I had the chance to work at The Chefs’ House, where I had the pleasure to work under Chef Bennett, Chef Li and Chef Fernandes. It was at The Chefs’ House where I was able to create and execute a four-course tasting menu inspired by my time in Italy. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to work for my last placement as I learned many great things that moulded me into the cook I am today."

Kathlyne Ross, 1994/1995 Graduate

Kathlyne Ross is a graduate of the Culinary Management Program as well as the Italian Culinary Program. She jokes that she gets paid to eat and travel, but the Loblaw Vice-President takes her role as taste trendsetter seriously, travelling internationally in search of new flavours and cuisines. Responsible for strategic direction and vision for Loblaw's President's Choice and other private-label brands, Ross oversees a team of 35 and 9,000 products. Named one of 25 Women Changing the Way We Eat Now by Chatelaine and a Canadian Grocer Star Woman, Ross is a cheese expert and member of the Guilde Internationale des Fromagers. Before joining Loblaw in 2001, Ross worked as a chef in Australia and Ontario.

Contact Us

DOMESTIC STUDENT ADMISSIONS

For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions web page.

FINANCIAL/FEES

For inquiries about OSAP, bursaries, scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid web page.

CULINARY ARTS - ITALIAN (H411)

For general Chef School inquiries, please contact chcastudentsupport@georgebrown.ca

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

Join us for an upcoming Discovery Day, where you will learn more about your area of interest, get a first-hand look at our facilities and meet with representatives from George Brown College.

Sign up for our Open House Discovery Day.

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.