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Food Business and Culinary Entrepreneurship

Bachelor of Science

Next start date is May 20th. Applying is easy and free!

Blend culinary creativity with sustainability

and impact the culinary world.


Explore a world of opportunities, from creating innovative dishes with a focus on quality, safety, and holistic nutrition to pioneering solutions for food waste reduction. Whether you envision yourself working in food production management, product innovation, sustainable packaging, or health-related sectors, our program prepares you to thrive in diverse food environments while making a positive impact on the world.

Program Overview


The future of sustainable food service relies on professionals who can source sustainable products to create menus that balance taste with sustainable nutrition. With the growing focus on sustainable and eco-friendly food practices, the degree program in Food Business and Culinary Entrepreneurship is poised to be at the forefront of this transformative shift as it represents a fusion of sustainable foodservice with food science, holistic nutrition, and culinary development.

It equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to create innovative, high quality food products and food service offerings for existing and emerging markets as well as to excel in various culinary and food management roles.

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Career Outlook

Earn your degree.

Unlock new opportunities.

22k

Chefs and Head Cooks jobs in the U.S., 2022.

$56k

Chefs and Head Cooks average pay, 2022.

+8%

Projected growth for Chefs and Head Cooks jobs through 2032. 


*Source: ONet.org. Unity Environmental University cannot guarantee employment. Salary data represents averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience.

Experiential and Immersive Coursework

Attentive beautiful lady working in the kitchen and carrying a whole tray of tasty macarons

Sustainable Culinary Development

This course delves into the art and science of food preparation, emphasizing sustainable culinary development and farm-to-table menu planning. Students master the complexities of flavor profiles, cooking techniques, and presentation. Practical experiences cover food reactions, seasonal considerations, pricing, cost control, global fusion cuisine, and sustainability trends, providing a comprehensive introduction to the culinary world.

A plate of food in a blue bowl on a table.

Plant-Based Protein Alternatives

This course provides a thorough examination of plant-based protein sources such as legumes, grains, nuts, seeds, and algae, emphasizing their role in sustainable diets across diverse cultures. Students will gain insights into the nutritional aspects, environmental impacts, and culinary applications of plant-based proteins.

Dietitian writing diet plan, view from above on the table with different healthy products and drawings on the topic of healthy eating

Financing a Sustainable World

In this course, dive into the vital intersection of business and environmental sustainability for the benefit of future generations. Explore how financial tools can address environmental challenges and ensure long-term sustainability through market processes. By the end, you’ll be equipped to interpret and apply financial management principles, developing sustainable solutions for the business world.


Degree Requirements and Courses


The B.S in Food Business and Culinary Entrepreneurship degree requires 120 credits. You may transfer in up to 90 credits from outside institutions. View our full course catalog for a better look into your program. Then apply online for free to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is Food Business and Culinary Entrepreneurship?

    Food Business and Culinary Entrepreneurship is the intersection of culinary arts and sustainable business practices. This field equips individuals with a diverse skill set, combining culinary expertise with an understanding of sustainable and ethical practices within the food industry. Professionals in this domain navigate the complexities of responsible sourcing, eco-friendly culinary practices, and addressing environmental and social issues.

    This multidisciplinary approach not only prepares individuals for hands-on culinary roles but also positions them as advocates for positive change in the food business landscape. Overall, Food Business and Culinary Entrepreneurship foster a new generation of professionals committed to creating a resilient, socially just, and environmentally responsible food system.

  • What courses will I be taking?

    General Education Core: 35 credit
    Environmental Professional Core: 13 credits
    Elective Courses: 30 credits
    Program Core: 42 credits

    • COMM 401 Using Social Media in a Global World
    • ENVJ 307 Food Systems and Social Justice 
    • EVHS 205 Occupational Safety and Health
    • EVHW 401 Worksite Health Environment and Management 
    • FINC 201 Business Administration: Enterprise Accounting 
    • FINC 401 Impact Investment for a Sustainable World
    • FOOD 201 Sustainable Culinary Development 
    • FOOD 203 Fermented Foods
    • FOOD 315 Plant-based Protein Alternatives
    • MGMT 201 Corporate Sustainability: Frameworks and Standards 
    • MGMT 403 Global Supply Chain Operations: Greening Your Business
    • MGMT 405 Achieving Net Zero through Carbon Accounting
    • MKTG 301 Environmental Marketing and Branding
    • SUFA 200 Farm to Table: Supply Chains and Food Culture

    For course requirements and a better look into your program, view our full course catalog. Then apply online for free to get started.

  • How much does it cost?

    Your online education should be affordable and manageable. Our team of distance education concierges will work with you through the admissions process to help you plan and pay for your degree. Learn more about the costs here.

  • How fast can I finish?

    Our comprehensive 120-credit program can be tailored to fit your schedule and goals! Completion time is flexible, determined by the number of credits you choose to take each term (8 terms/year) and less time with transfer credits. Without transfer credits, you can anticipate the following completion times:

    • 24 credits/year: Complete in just 5 years
    • 30 credits/year: Achieve your degree in 4 years
    • 48 credits/year: Fast-track your education in only 2.6 years

Ready to Learn More?

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Program Features


High Value Education: Nationally recognized for the quality of our programs delivered at an affordable price.

Social Mobility: Unity ranks in the top 15% of colleges in the U.S. for fostering upward mobility.

Sustainability Core: All programs are committed to sustainable practices, preparing you for a future of environmental awareness in all fields.

Flexible Learning: Balance work and education effortlessly by choosing when and where you want to study.

Flexible Start Dates: 8 start dates per year allows you to control your schedule

Personalized Guidance: Benefit from individualized academic and professional advising, where we are dedicated to turning your career and academic aspirations into tangible achievements.

Transfer-Friendly: Shorten your academic timeline, since we accept up to 90 credits to value your prior academic achievements.


Experts in the Field


At Unity Environmental University, our faculty is composed of a wide range of environmental science experts who in addition to teaching, conduct their own research and various fieldwork.

Sebastian Kretschmer smiles at the camera in front of a forest background.

Dr. Sebastian Kretschmer

Subject Matter Expert


Dr. Sebastian Kretschmer is your passport to the future of sustainable food! As the Director of Sustainable Food Systems & Food Science Programs at Unity, he’s not just an educator; he’s a changemaker. With a career dedicated to transforming food systems globally, Dr. Kretschmer’s impact goes beyond the classroom.

A founding member of the UN Sustainable Food Systems Program, he’s been at the forefront of sustainable nutrition, food science, and regenerative farming. Awarded over $3M in grants, his research drives change in food systems. Join Dr. Kretschmer at Unity and embark on a journey where your passion for sustainability meets world-changing education.


Ready to Learn More?


Fill out the form below to speak with someone at Unity about the Distance Education programs. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hidden Fields












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HL
Welcome to Hybrid Learning where you can train for a meaningful environmental career while enjoying ultimate flexibility! Choose the combination of in-person and online courses that fits your life and goals. With 8 terms available per year with 5-week terms, we offer the best of online and hands-on education.
TIEP
Welcome to the Technical Institute for Environmental Professions! Join us for in-person, job-focused, environmental associate degrees at our commuter campus in New Gloucester, Maine. The Technical Institute offers flexible, innovative, and affordable preparation for Maine’s high-demand jobs with two-week terms, low per-credit pricing, and state-of-the-art HyFlex classrooms.

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Distance Education Concierge

Last Updated on April 1, 2024