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

Updated on Nov 28, 2024 05:22 IST

Bachelor of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts (BCT & CA) course is a popular choice among students who want to make a career in the world 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. 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. Candidates can get admission to the BCT & CA program through merit in their intermediate exams. 

Popular colleges that offer this course 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 Catering Technology and 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:

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.

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.

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 of Catering Technology and Culinary Arts course.

Apart from this, some colleges also list additional eligibility criteria wherein it is specified that aspirants need to secure at least 50% 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. 

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 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
To Be Notified

Oberoi STEP 2025 Application Form

15 Oct '24 -

15 Jan '25

LPU NEST 2025 BHMCT Online Registration

ONGOING

Jan '25 - May '25

SNUET 2025 Application Form

TENTATIVE

Feb '25

IPU CET 2025 Application Form Availability

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

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Counselling Start

To Be Notified

AIHMCT WAT Exam 2025 (Round 3)

To Be Notified

AIHMCT WAT Exam 2025

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 offer some or all of  the subjects that are listed below:

Semester 1 

Introduction of Basic Food Production

Kitchen Training Food Production

Front Office Communication

Semester 2

Environmental Science Hygiene & Sanitation

Accommodation Operations 

Computer Applications

Semester3

Introduction of Basic Food Production

Food Production and Culinary Arts

Baking & Patisserie

Semester 4

Nutrition and Food Service

Industrial Training

Indian Gastronomy

Semester 5

Culinary French

Environmental Studies

Meat Fabrication and Butchery

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:

IHM Courses

IHM Placements

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

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

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

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

1 Course
8.6 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 Profile

Average  Salary

Executive Chef

INR 11  LPA

Pastry Chef

INR 6.7 LPA

Catering Manager

INR 7 LPA

Event Planner

INR 3  LPA

Food and Beverage Manager

INR 10  LPA

Bartender

INR 3 LPA

Restaurant Manager

INR 5 LPA

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

Related Articles:

Hotel Management: Types of job profiles.

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.

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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