Programs in consumer services, hospitality, and tourism prepare students for a variety of career options and further education. each program includes options for students to earn industry certifications and/or college credit in the career field. students, who are interested in culinary arts, restaurant management, lodging management, or cosmetology, engage in real-world experiences through internships and mentoring opportunities. These allow students to apply their classroom instruction in meaningful ways, and they give them (through licensure or certification) a head start into the profession.
Culinary Arts (ACF)
The Culinary Arts program partners with the American Culinary Federation (ACF) to prepare students for successful careers in the food and beverage industry with a focus on Culinary Arts or Professional Baking. The program includes education in food production, professional cooking, baking, cost control, nutrition, sanitation and food marketing. Students may earn ACF’s Certified Junior Culinarian credential and may also earn articulated college credit through a statewide articulation agreement with Stratford University.
Food and Beverage Management (ProStart)
In partnership with the Restaurant Association of Maryland Education Foundation (RAMEF) and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), the ProStart program introduces students to a wide variety of careers within the restaurant, foodservice and hospitality industry. students study and practice professional food preparation, international cuisines, food safety and sanitation, customer service relations, accounting, cost control, marketing, and lodging management. As part of the program, students complete an industry-mentored work-based learning experience.
Hospitality and Tourism Management Program (HTMP)
The Hospitality and Tourism Management Program (HTMP), is a nationally recognized program developed by industry experts and members of the American Hotel & Lodging Association that offers the Certified Hospitality and Tourism Management professional credential. students enrolled in the program build business and management skills related to the lodging and tourism industry. The tourism industry offers significant job creation across all regions with tremendous success for long-term career pathways. Tourism is recognized as a major driver of economic growth and development in Maryland.
Careers in Cosmetology
The Careers in Cosmetology program prepares individuals to care for and beautify hair, skin, and nails. students are instructed in the art and science of cosmetology as well as all aspects of the industry. emphasis is placed on hygiene, safety and sanitation as well as state Board of Cosmetologists’ rules and regulations. related areas of instruction include human anatomy and physiology, mathematics and measurement, and chemistry. Salon management is an integral part of the classroom and clinical experience. The 1,500-hour program includes classroom instruction, clinical experience, related mentored work-based learning, and a senior capstone project. Upon successful completion, students are required to take the Maryland State Board of Cosmetologists’ examination.
Culinary Arts (ACF)
The American Culinary Federation (ACF) program prepares students for careers and further education in professional cooking or baking.
Eighteen Maryland high schools are accredited in culinary arts and/or professional baking—a one-and-a-half-year process that includes curriculum review, site visits, and assessments.
Students completing the program earn ACF’s Certified Junior Culinarian credential.