SACSchool of Continuing EducationProgramsCareer EducationBecome a Line Cook

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      ​​​​​Start Your Career as a Line Cook

      All classes are 100% Tuition-free for adults living in California.​​

      African American woman in chef's uniform excited to use the culinary skills learned from free classes at Santa Ana CollegeAsian man working as line cook in kitchen restaurant after finishing certificate at Santa Ana College​​​
      ​​Overview
      ​The line cook training program prepares you to work as a line cook. Master basic cooking techniques to create a variety of dishes. You will learn many aspects of food preparation and how to present and serve it. You will also prepare to take both the ServSafe​ Food Handler and Food Protection Exams. These are industry-recognized certifications in employers want. Transition to Santa Ana College's Culinary Arts Program to continue training and earn an advanced degree.  


      ​Career Outlook
      ​Salary range for a Restaurant Cook in California: $27,080 to $42,420 a year
      *Currently, this position is in very high demand with local employers offering between $20 and $28 an hour! 


      ​Course Requirements
      ​Students must pass the following THREE courses:
      VFOOD200 - Line Cook Training
      VFOOD005 - ServSafe® Food Handler
      VFOOD210 - ServSafe® Food Protection Manager Certification Exam Preparation, Review & Practice

      Students must pass ONE of the following courses:
      VBUS400 - Employability Skills
      ESL520 - ESL English for Work 2
      HSMTH 190 - Math for College and Career Readiness
      You must first meet with a counselor before enrolling in HSMTH 190.​

      If you pass VFOOD 210 with a grade of B or higher, you can earn credit for CULN 110 Food Safety and Sanitation through the credit-by-exam process. Credits from VFOOD 210 can count towards a culinary certificate or degree at Santa Ana College. There is no tuition cost for VFOOD 210.

      Participation Requirements
      • You must be 18 or older and living in California to register for this class. ​​
      ​Get started today.
      Check out our full list of career education courses. 

      ​Click here to view classes and register for free culinary classes at Santa Ana College, nera Anaheim, Irvine, and Garden Grove​