Do you have a passion for pastry? Are you a connoisseur of confection? Well, maybe it's time you turned your passion into a profession. Bakers and pastry artists are specialists in the food and restaurant industry. With the wildly successful cooking and food programs now featured on television, consumers' tastes have become more sophisticated and talented professionals are needed to meet the demand for quality consumables.

In as little as 40 weeks, you can earn a diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at the Culinary Institute of Virginia (CIV), ECPI University's School of Culinary Arts. Throughout your course of study, you will be taught by award-winning chefs with real-world experience in a hands-on, professional environment.

An Associate of Applied Science Degree in Baking and Pastry Arts is also available and can be earned in less than 15 months.