Learn in new state-of-the-art kitchens. Train with expert chefs. Explore the art and science of cuisine. Graduate with the skills —and creative vision—to start a culinary career that lasts.
Designed For You to Succeed
Are you ready to turn your culinary dreams into a reality? Saddleback College's Culinary Arts Program now thrives at the cutting-edge Saddleback@ATEP campus in Tustin.
This premier 20,000-square-foot sustainable facility offers an unparalleled environment designed for aspiring chefs and culinary professionals to hone their skills, cultivate their passion, and launch successful careers.
From prepping to plating, you’ll work in kitchens using the latest tech and tools that restaurants use today. Everything is designed to prepare you for what comes next: industry-relevant training, hands-on learning, and facilities that match what you’ll see on the job—and stretch your imagination.
- Four state-of-the-art commercial kitchen labs with the latest specialty equipment
- Labs featuring iPads, big-screen monitors for live instruction, and real-world software to train in restaurant operations
- Student-run 70-seat restaurant where you’ll gain hands-on experience
- On-site coffee bar featuring pastries crafted by our baking students
- Culinary garden where you’ll grow and cook with fresh herbs and vegetables while learning sustainable practices
- Expert instructors with deep industry experience and a passion for innovation
A Total Transformation in Hands-On Learning
Curious about the program? Hit play to explore what it's all about.
Programs Designed to Meet Your Needs
From short-term certificates to in-depth associate degrees, our culinary programs are designed to fit your career goals – and timeline – with options you can complete in as little as one to three semesters. All programs are zero textbook cost (ZTC), and apprenticeship opportunities provide valuable on-the-job experience.
Whether you’re just starting or making a career change, you’ll gain the hands-on training and industry-aligned skills that today’s culinary and hospitality employers are looking for.
Associate of Science and Certificate Programs
- Advanced Baking and Pastry
- Advanced Culinary Arts
- Basic Culinary Skills
- Catering and Special Events
- Introduction to Baking and Pastry
- Introduction to Culinary Arts
Designed to Launch Hospitality Careers
With over 140,000 jobs and millions of visitors annually, OC’s hospitality industry is booming. Our graduates are boosting their salaries by up to 70%, and Saddleback@ATEP gives you the skills to break in, move up, and start your culinary career strong.
Get hands-on experience and real-world connections at our new campus. Located in the heart of Orange County, we partner with top industry leaders to offer job placement and apprenticeship programs that launch culinary and hospitality careers. Your future starts here—apply now.
Cooking with Purpose: Sustainability and Service
We believe culinary education carries a responsibility to the environment and the community. Sustainability is built into everything we do—from our LEED Gold–certified, solar-powered facility and all-electric kitchen to hands-on learning in our on-site culinary garden, which focuses on food systems and eco-friendly practices.
Community service is also a central component to our program. Students engage in meaningful, voluntary service that builds leadership, inclusivity, and purpose-driven cooking skills—preparing them to make a real difference in and beyond the kitchen.
Saddleback@ATEP
1634 Valencia Avenue
Tustin, CA 92782