BCT & CA (Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts) Course: Full Form, Admission 2025, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Exams, Job Profiles, Salary & Recruiters

Updated on Jan 7, 2025 05:35 IST
Pragati Singh

Pragati SinghSenior Executive - Content

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) course is a popular choice among students who want to make a career in the field of Hospitality and Culinary Arts. In a BCT & CA course, aspirants are taught about cooking, food preparation, presentation of food as well as serving etiquette.

A BCT and CA course is a three-year undergraduate degree which is divided into 6 semesters. As part of the Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts course aspirants are taught topics through classroom lectures along with technical skills training that is conducted at an in-house kitchen. 

Students who want to work in the food and hospitality field can join the BCT and CA course after completing their class 10+2 from any stream, from a recognized board as its eligibility. Plus, they need to score well in their 10+2, as they can get admission to the BCT and CA program through merit in their intermediate exams as well. 

Popular BCT & CA colleges are the Culinary Academy of India, Regency College of Culinary Arts and Hotel Management, and Pinnacle Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology. The course can be completed at fees ranging from INR 1 Lakh to INR 4 Lakh.

The BCT & CA course is a holistic mix of classic culinary arts and catering technology. After completing a BCT & CA course, aspirants are hired as chefs and caterers in hotels, clubs, bars, restaurants, cruise liners, resorts, etc. Top recruiting companies include the Taj Group, Marriot International, and ITC Group of Hotels etc.

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) Course: Highlights

Bachelor of Culinary Arts courses offer students the necessary knowledge of the Hospitality industry. The students who are interested in catering will learn about food safety and food preparation methods.

Candidates can check the table below to learn the main course details about the BCT and CA courses:

Particulars

Details

BCT & CA Course Full Form 

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts

BCT & CA Course Level

Undergraduate

BCT & CA Course Duration

3 years

BCT & CA Course Fee

INR 1 Lakh - INR 4 Lakh

BCT & CA Course Eligibility

Passed class 12 from a recognized board

BCT & CA Course Top Colleges

Culinary Academy of India, Regency College of Culinary Arts and Hotel Management, and Pinnacle Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology.

BCT & CA Course Job Profiles

Front Office Manager, Hotel Manager, Cafe Manager, Chef, Food Truck Manager, etc.

BCT & CA Course Average Annual Salary 

INR 5 LPA - INR 10 LPA

BCT & CA Course Top Recruiters

Taj, Hyatt, Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Ramada, Renaissance, etc.

Also Read About Bachelor's Degree of Culinary Arts:

BSc in Hospitality & Travel Course Details

MBA in Hospitality Management Course Details

Why Pursue a Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA)?

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts, also known as BCT & CA or BCTCA, is well-liked by students who want to enter the culinary arts and train to be Chefs. The BCT & CA course lasts for three years in total, which is broken down into a total of six semesters.

Candidates receive training in all of the culinary arts and techniques during the BCT & CA course. The BCT & CA course teaches students all about food and culinary methods used in a professional setting, including food preparation, cooking, presentation, and serving. Students who enroll in this course gain proficiency in the knowledge and methods needed for food preparation as well as for assuring appropriate serving and presentation in a professional setting.

Here are some of the primary advantages of studying catering courses: 

  • Detailed Training: Catering courses encompass a wide range of topics, including training in culinary arts, menu planning, food presentation, and kitchen management. In the culinary and hospitality industries, you'll pick up a variety of skills that apply to a wide range of jobs.
  • Career Possibilities: Completing a catering course may open up a range of job possibilities. As a chef, caterer, event coordinator, restaurant manager, etc., you can start your own catering business.
  • Creativity: The procedures used in catering for menu development and food presentation can be quite inventive. If you have a passion for creating unique and beautiful dishes, catering might be a fulfilling career choice.
  • Entrepreneurship: Enrolling in one of the various courses that cover business and marketing concepts can be beneficial if you want to launch your own catering company. You'll learn how to build a budget, determine prices, and manage a profitable business.

Bachelor in Hotel Management and Catering Technology (BHMCT) Related Information:

How many domain subjects are compulsory in CUET UG 2025?

Q:   What is Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA)?

A:

Students who wish to pursue a profession in culinary arts frequently enroll in the Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts, or BCT & CA, course. Aspirants are taught about cooking, food preparation, presentation, and serving etiquette in a BCT & CA course.

The BCT & CA course combines traditional culinary talents with cutting-edge catering technology. Aspirants can work as chefs at hotels, clubs, bars, restaurants, cruise ships, resorts, etc. after completing a BCT & CA course.

Also Read: Career in Catering 

Q:   Is there a good career scope in Culinary Arts?

A:

Culinary Arts offer a unique opportunity for creating visually appealing and delicious dishes. You can experiment with flavors, textures, and presentations as a Chef. The hospitality industry is expanding and offering a variety of career options in restaurants, hotels, resorts, catering companies, cruise ships, even television shows, etc.

Q:   Which course is better BA in culinary arts or BHM?

A:
If you are specifically interested in culinary arts then go for BA in culinary arts but if you are not sure about the department then go for BHM because after doing BHM you can work in any of the 4 departments but after BA you need to stick with culinary arts only.

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) Eligibility

Aspirants can pursue BCT & CA courses right after completing their Class 12. Students from any stream- humanities, commerce, or science can pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts as a BSc Culinary Arts or a Bachelor of Hotel Management and Catering Technology.

The below table covers the qualifications for a culinary bachelor degree and other certificate and diploma courses:

Course Level Eligibility
Bachelor Culinary Courses (BCT & CA/BA culinary/BSc in Culinary Arts)
  • 10+2 (Intermediate) from any recognized board of education in India.
  • Apart from this, some colleges also list additional eligibility criteria wherein it is specified that aspirants need to secure at least 50 percent aggregate marks at their Class 12 level.
  • Another criterion that aspirants should fulfill to secure admission in BCT & CA courses is that they should have studied English at their 10+2 level. 
Diploma in Culinary Arts 10th Standard
Certificate Courses in Culinary Arts
No formal educational qualification is required, though basic literacy may be beneficial

Bachelors in Culinary Arts Related Information:

CUET Previous Year Question Papers (2024, 2023, 2022); Download Free PDFs

Q:   What are the benefits of studying BCT & CA?

A:

You may make your passion for food into a career by working in catering. Whether you work for a restaurant, hotel, or resort or you launch your own business, for instance as a personal chef or home-based caterer, there are many professions in which you can demonstrate your culinary abilities. After completing the course, the students can earn an average salary ranging between INR 4 LPA to 6 LPA. 

Q:   What is the eligibility to pursue a culinary course after Class 12?

A:

As a Class 12 pass out, you can pursue a Culinary Arts course at various levels like undergraduate, diploma, or certification. You can opt from a range of courses irrespective of your stream in Class 12. However, the minimum requirement is to pass Class 12 with a minimum of 50% aggregate score from a recognised board. Some colleges may also require English subject scores.

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) Admission 2025

To get admission into BCT & CA course, students can follow the general steps listed below:

Step 1. Complete your class 12th in any stream, from a recognized board. 

Step 2. Research the BCT & CA program and the colleges that offer the course. Make sure you fit their minimum eligibility criteria.

Step 3. Fill out the college application forms, and if relevant, apply online through the college portals and websites. Most colleges base their selection criteria on merit.

Step 4. Complete the document verification process and pay the college fees.

Step 5. Start your classes as per the instructions from your institute.

Bachelor in Hotel Management & Catering Technology Related Information:

Top 5 choices for Hotel Management Internships

Q:   Does Culinary Arts require Mathematics?

A:

No, if you wish to pursue a Culinary Arts course, you are just required to pass Class 12, irrespective of your stream, with a minimum of 50% aggregate score from a recognised board. Also, there are some after Class 10 diplomas and certification courses that only need Class 10. 

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) Entrance Exams 2025

There are no specific entrance tests that candidates need to take to secure admission in BCT & CA courses as it is mostly based on merit and the college’s selection criteria.

Students who wish to pursue other degrees in food and hospitality like Hotel Management, Event Management, and other Catering Courses after their class 12 will have to take entrance exams and go through college counseling processes.

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates

10 Jan '25 -

05 Feb '25

LPU NEST 2025 BHMCT Date of Exams

ONGOING

01 Feb '25 -

31 Mar '25

IPU CET 2025 Application Form Availability

ONGOING

01 Jan '25 -

30 Apr '25

AIHMCT WAT application form 2025

ONGOING

Jan '25 - May '25

SNUET 2025 Application Form

TENTATIVE
To Be Notified

Last Day to fill Oberoi STEP 2025 Application Form

21 Feb '25

SAT Registration Deadline for March Test

25 Feb '25

SAT Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation, and Late Registration for March Test

DatesPast Exam Dates
To Be Notified

Oberoi STEP 2025 Application Form

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Counselling Start

To Be Notified

AIHMCT WAT Exam 2025 (Round 3)

Q:   Which is the highest degree offered in Culinary Arts course?

A:

The Master of Culinary Arts (MCA) or Master of Fine Arts in Culinary Arts (MFA) is normally the highest degree offered in the culinary arts. Experienced chefs and culinary experts who want to further specialise in their field, develop their culinary abilities, and gain a deeper understanding of culinary theory, innovation, and administration may consider these advanced degree programs. 
Master's programs in Culinary Arts frequently require students to do a sizable culinary project in addition to their coursework. Examples of these projects include designing a one-of-a-kind menu, inventing a new culinary technique, or performing original research on the subject. These programmes might also provide chances for industry partnerships, externships, or internships to obtain real-world experience and networking possibilities at the pinnacle of the culinary business. Check Master of Fine Arts Course.

Q:   Is there any entrance for BSC Culinary Arts?

A:

Hi, admission for BSc Culinary Arts generally depends on a merit basis. However, some colleges accept entrance exam scores like CUET, LPU NEST, IIHM eCHAT, CUCET, etc. It is advisable to visit the official site of your desired college for accurate details.

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) Course Syllabus

The subjects taught in Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) courses vary from college to college. However, most of the popular colleges that offer BCT & CA and BHMCT, offer some or all of  the subjects that are listed below:

BCT & CA Subjects Semester-

Introduction of Basic Food Production

Kitchen Training Food Production

Front Office Communication

BCT & CA Subjects Semester- 2

Environmental Science Hygiene & Sanitation

Accommodation Operations 

Computer Applications

BCT & CA Subjects Semester- 3

Introduction of Basic Food Production

Food Production and Culinary Arts

Baking & Patisserie

BCT & CA Subjects Semester- 4

Nutrition and Food Service

Industrial Training

Indian Gastronomy

BCT & CA Subjects Semester- 5

Culinary French

Environmental Studies

Meat Fabrication and Butchery

BCT & CA Subjects Semester- 6

Effective Communications

Fundamentals of Art & Sculpture

Nutrition and Dietetics

What is the difference between a BA in Culinary Arts and a BCT & CA?

A bachelor's degree program in culinary arts (BA in Culinary Arts) concentrates on the art and science of cooking and food preparation. The essentials of culinary methods, kitchen management, and food service operations are often covered in this.

Contrarily, a bachelor's degree program in BCT (Bachelor of Culinary Technology) CA concentrates on the technical elements of culinary arts and food science. Principles of food science, food safety, nutrition, and food service management are frequently covered.

Both programs will give you the fundamental know-how and abilities required to function in the culinary field. The program's primary difference, though, is its emphasis. A BA in Culinary Arts might be more appropriate for you if you are more interested in the artistic and creative side of cooking.

Also Read Information Related to Bachelor of Science in Culinary:

Diploma In Event Management: Admission Process, Fees, Top Colleges

Q:   Which specializations can I choose in Culinary Arts courses?

A:

Popular specializations that you may choose in Culinary arts include:

Specializations
Food styling & PresentationGlobal Cuisine & Gastronomy
Home ScienceFood Production
Food & Beverage ServiceHealthcare & Hospital
BartendingFood Photography & Food Writing
 Food TechnologyIndian Cuisine & Culture

 

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) Top Colleges

Some colleges that offer Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) Courses in India are as follows:

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts College 

Total Fees

Culinary Academy of India, Hyderabad

INR 1.2 Lakh

Regency College of Culinary Arts and Hotel Management, Hyderabad

-----

G H Raisoni University, Amravati

INR 1.9 Lakh

Roots College of Hotel Management and Culinary Arts, Hyderabad

-----

Vedatya Institute, Gurgaon

INR 8.6 Lakh

Pinnacle Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, Hyderabad

-----

RVS College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore

-----

G H Raisoni University, Saikheda

-----

Note- This information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body and may vary.

Also, Read About the Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts:

Catering Colleges in India

1 Course
1.2 L
4.7
1 Course
4.3
4.3
1 Course
1.89 L
1 Course
3.89 L
5.0

Q:   Which specializations can I choose in Culinary Arts courses?

A:

You'll get a plenty of Culinary Arts specialisations to choose from. Here are some popular specialisations:

Q:   Which are the top colleges for BSc in Culinary Arts?

A:

Hi, there are around 65 BSc in Culinary Arts colleges in India. You can find some popular options from the table below:

BSc in Culinary Arts collegesTuition Fee
Chandigarh UniversityINR 8.01 Lakh
SSCA PuneINR 12 Lakh
Lovely Professional UniversityINR 6 Lakh
D Y Patil School of Hospitality and Tourism StudiesINR 12 Lakh
Thakur Institute of Hotel ManagementINR 1.55 Lakh

Note: This information is sourced from official website and may vary.

Popular Private BCT & CA (Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts) Colleges in India

1 Course
3.89 L
5.0
1 Course
1.2 L
4.7
1 Course
4.3
4.3
1 Course
1.89 L

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) Career: Job Profiles and Top Recruiters

On completing the BCT & CA course, candidates can either pursue a postgraduate course in the field of hospitality or they can start applying for jobs directly. Some popular PG level courses that aspirants can pursue after BCT & CA course are Masters in Hotel Management & Catering Technology (MHMCT), Masters in Catering Technology and Culinary Arts, Masters in Hotel Management (MHM), MBA in Hotel Management, MSc in Hotel Management, MBA in Hospitality Management, etc.

Many students opt to pursue an internship before they complete the BCT & CA course, as it helps them develop an intrinsic understanding of the Hospitality industry.

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts Job Profiles and Salaries

BCT & CA graduates can be hired by hotels or restaurants as assistants to the chefs, Food and Beverage executives, etc. Candidates can go through the list of job profiles that they can pursue in the hospitality industry by clicking the link here – 

Job Title Job Description
Average Salary (INR)
Executive Chef Oversees all kitchen operations, menu planning, staff management, and quality control. 10-20 LPA
Sous Chef Assists the Executive Chef, supervises kitchen staff, and ensures smooth kitchen operations. 6-12 LPA
Chef de Partie Specializes in a particular cuisine or section of the kitchen (e.g., pastry, grill). 4-8 LPA
Commis Chef Entry-level position, assists senior chefs with various tasks. 2-4 LPA
Restaurant Manager Oversees all aspects of restaurant operations, including service, staff, and finances. 6-12 LPA
Food & Beverage Manager Manages all food and beverage services within a hotel or other establishment. 6-12 LPA
Catering Manager Plans and executes catering events, manages staff, and ensures client satisfaction. 8-15 LPA
Food & Beverage Service Manager Supervises front-of-house staff, ensures efficient service, and maintains customer satisfaction. 5-10 LPA
Bartender Mixes and serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. 2-6 LPA
Food Stylist Arranges food for photography and videography. 3-8 LPA
Culinary Instructor Teaches culinary arts in educational institutions. 4-8 LPA
Food & Beverage Consultant Provides expert advice on food and beverage operations to businesses. 8-15 LPA

Note: This information is sourced from multiple sources on the web. Hence, is subject to vary. 

Related Articles for BS Culinary Arts:

Hotel Management: Types of job profiles.

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts Top Recruiters

Some hotel chains that are known to hire BCT & CA graduates are listed in the table below:

Top Recruiters

The Taj Group of Hotels

Marriott International, Inc.

Hyatt Hotels

ITC Group of Hotels

The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts

Accor Hotels

Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts Group

Hilton Worldwide

 

Q:   What are the job profiles after completing Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts course?

A:

Some of the job profiles after Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts are:

Executive Chef - An executive chef is in charge of overseeing the activities in the kitchen, assuring the quality of the food cooked, and adhering to safety regulations. Additionally, he or she is in charge of training the new hires.

Assistant Chef - An Assistant Chef's primary responsibility is to support a Senior Chef. They are in charge of cooking, experimenting with recipes, supplying ingredients, and assisting with kitchen organisation and cleanliness.

Catering Manager- The catering manager is in charge of directing the operations of the catering division. In addition to working on food menus, they must interact with customers, ensuring the best cuisine is served, and boost customer happiness.

Q:   What are the areas of employment for BCT & CA graduates?

A:

Students of the Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) are hired as trainee chefs and they work under experienced chefs and staff to learn the skills. Some of the top areas of employment for BCT & CA graduates include:

  • Hotels
  • Resorts
  • Restaurants
  • Catering Firms
  • Cafeterias
  • Cruise Liners
  • Bars & Clubs etc.

Q:   What is the scope of BCT & CA?

A:

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) has many advantages. Candidates who enrol in the programme have significant employment possibilities as well as the option of pursuing further study in the same area. 

  • A BCT and CA graduate has the option of starting their own firm or working for one of the reputable organisations in the sector.
  • These people have a wide range of employment options, including Executive Chef, Assistant Chef, Catering Manager, and Food Executive.
  • They can earn an average salary ranging between INR 5 LPA to 8 LPA.
  • The graduates can work in big hotels, including the Taj Group of Hotels, Marriott International, Inc., ITC Group of Hotels, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels, etc.

Q:   What is Culinary Arts salary after doing BHMCT or BCT & BA course?

A:

Here is the salary information for various roles after pursuing BHMCT or BCT & BA courses:

Job TitleRangeAverage
Head ChefRange: INR 249K - 1M p.a.Average: INR 488,335
Chef AssistantRange: INR 119K - 491K p.a.Average: INR 222,000
Chef de CuisineRange: INR 190K - 3M p.a.Average: INR 600,000
Executive Sous ChefRange: INR 590K - 977K p.a.Average: INR 812,000

Note: This information is sourced from multiple sources on the web. Hence, is subject to vary. 

BCT & CA FAQs

Below are some FAQs related to BCT & CA courses:

Q:   What is the fee for B.A in Culinary Arts in Delhi?

A:
The total cost for BA in Culinary Arts course is INR 2.2 Lakhs approx. Besides tuition fee, students are expected to pay a one-time admission fee of INR 25000However, this can vary from institute to institute.
 

Q:   Which are the best colleges for Culinary Arts in India?

A:

There are more than 450 Culinary Arts colleges in India, of which, around 255 are private and 77 are government institutions. These colleges offer full time, part-time, distance, and online Culinary Arts courses. Here are some popular Culinary Arts colleges in India options for you:

Culinary Arts CollegesTuition Fees
IHM PusaINR 62,500 - INR 89,850
IHM MumbaiINR 30,000 - INR 88,200
Chandigarh UniversityINR 5.97 Lacs - INR 8.01 Lakh
CII Institute of Hospitality - ITC Maurya, DelhiINR 3.89 Lacs - INR 4.01 Lakh
IIHMCA HyderabadINR 80,000 - INR 3.75 Lakh

Note: This information is sourced from official website and may vary.

Most Popular Courses

Following are the most popular BCT & CA (Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts) courses, based on alumni reviews. Explore these reviews to choose the best course in BCT & CA (Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts).

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