Is the school accredited?
Yes. The School of Culinary Arts’ degree and diploma programs are recognized and approved by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS.) The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools is listed as a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education. The Council for Higher Education also recognizes this accrediting body for degree granting institutions. The school is licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed Schools.
How long are the programs?
The programs range in length from 5 weeks for the Professional Bartending diploma program to 16 months for the Culinary Arts degree program.
Can I get credit for courses I have already taken?
Yes. A student transferring from another school may receive advanced placement for subjects completed that directly correspond to subjects required for completion at the School of Culinary Arts. Students will submit an official transcript showing successful completion of previous course work. At least 50% of course work in a given program must be completed at the Institution.
Can I “test out” of a class?
Yes. Incoming students, including current high school students, may be awarded advanced standing by demonstrating their expertise in a subject through advanced testing. Advanced placement decisions are determined by the academic advisory committee. Yorktowne Business Institute and the School of Culinary Arts have formed articulation agreements with several area high schools. Through this program, high school students may receive credits for specified classes completed at the high school level. The school maintains an approved list of courses and qualifications that may articulate for credit.
What are the requirements for admission?
A student must be a high school graduate or possess a General Equivalency Diploma (GED.) In addition a general skills competency test is administered.
Is public transportation available?
Yes. Because the school is located along a busy thoroughfare, there is ample public transportation available to students.
Does the School have housing or dormitories?
The School of Culinary Arts does not have dormitories but assists students in locating nearby housing. Interested students should inquire at the time of application.
Is tutoring available?
Yes. The school offers assistance to students whose academic progress has fallen. This help is provided by faculty and/or peer tutors.
What if I don’t own a computer but need one to complete my assignments?
Special proctored laboratory time is schedule each week for students who need access to computers outside of class. These classrooms laboratories, as well as the library include Internet access.
Is financial aid available?
Students wishing to attend the School of Culinary Arts may be eligible for grants and loans to finance their education. These programs are described in more detail in publications, which can be obtained from the Yorktowne Business Institute Financial Aid Office.
The following financial aid programs are available to students:
- Federal Pell Grant
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
- PA Higher Education Assistance Agency Grants (PHEAA)
- Federal Family Education Loan Program
-
Parent PLUS Loans
Other organizations that provide financial assistance to Yorktowne Business Institute students include:
- Office for Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR)
- Southcentral Employment Corporation (formerly JTPA)
- Veterans Administration (VA)
- Blindness & Visual Services
-
Trade Act of 1974
-
TFC Credit Corporation
Who should apply for financial aid?
Everyone should apply for financial aid. Do not assume that you will not qualify for one or more of the financial aid programs.
Does Yorktowne Business Institute accept credit cards?
The Institution accepts Visa, Mastercard and Discover for payment on tuition and other expenses.
How does the Graduate Services Office assist me?
Job search assistance for full-time employment is available to a student who has completed a degree or diploma program and is in good standing with the institution. As employers notify the school regarding job openings, qualified graduates will be contacted. Part-time jobs are periodically announced in the weekly newsletter and/or on bulletin boards. Any student who is interested may inquire. Bulletin boards with job information are located in both the main building and the Culinary Arts Center.
How long does the Graduate Services office assist me after graduation?
Once a student has graduated, the Institution’s Career Services department is available anytime you need it, for as long as you need it.
