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Study Baking & Pastries Arts Programs in Canada

Vancouver Island University

900 Fifth Street

Nanaimo, BC, Canada

Email: WorldVIU@viu.ca

The VIU community acknowledges and thanks the Snuneymuxw, Quw'utsun, Tla'Amin, Snaw-naw-nas and Qualicum First Nations  on whose unceded territories we teach, learn, research, live & share knowledge.


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About Vancouver Island University

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Next Start Date: August 2024

 The Baking & Pastries Arts programs prepares students for careers in baking, baking management, and entrepreneurship. This full-time, cohort programs provides rigorous hands-on technical baking training .It's important to note the differences in the two programs:  

Certificate Program: The certificate program primarily focuses on honing your baking skills, ensuring you master the art and science of baking. It's ideal for those looking to excel in the technical aspects of the field.

Diploma Program: The diploma program goes a step further by adding management-level training to your skill set. In addition to mastering the core baking skills, you will also gain knowledge and expertise in managing the various aspects of a baking business, making it a comprehensive choice for those aspiring to leadership roles in the industry.

Here's what you can expect from both programs:

  1. Career Preparation: Both programs are dedicated to preparing you for a successful career in the world of baking, ensuring you have the skills and knowledge to excel.

  2. Hands-on Training: Immerse yourself in the art and science of baking with practical, hands-on training in an industrial kitchen, providing you with valuable experience in a real-world setting.

  3. Co-op Experience: Gain valuable workplace experience through co-op terms, putting your skills to use and further enhancing your understanding of the industry.

  4. Red Seal Certification: Our programs are designed to prepare you for the prestigious Red Seal Certification, a mark of excellence in the baking profession.

In the certificate program you get Level 1 Baker certification plus 1,200 training hours.

The first year in the diploma program is the same as the certificate. So you get the Level 1 Baker certification plus 1,200 training hours in your first year. In your second year, you get Level 2 Baker certification plus another 300 training hours.

For those seeking Level 3 technical training, a four-week course is available. Additionally, if you've accumulated enough training hours, you'll have the opportunity to write the BC Skilled Trades exam, paving the way for your Red Seal certification. 

Fill out the above form to receive full program information.

Hear From 

Paul Aboud, Former Student

“Starting your own bakery from scratch is not a piece of cake,” he says. “It’s hard work and the process can be fraught with obstacles, unexpected blockades and surprise costs. But then, you’re a baker and you already know that the biggest thing you’ll get out of your career is knowing you make an excellent product, your customers are dedicated and loyal, and your staff is gung-ho on producing the best items consistently.

Career Opportunities

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12,000 Students

1,400+ 

International   

     Students

Maximum 

Class Size


 34  

 

Students

50+ 

staff supporting international students

500+

student residence capacity

Milder Weather

Vancouver Island enjoys mild weather throughout the year, offering pleasant conditions for residents

120+ Program

Vancouver Island University is nestled on a mountainside overlooking the Salish Sea on the West Coast of Canada. 

Here inspiration is around every corner, every tree and every open door. It’s a place you’ll make real connections—on campus, in community and with the land. 

We help you explore your interests and learn the skills you need to create the future you want. We’re here to support your success with: 

  • expert professors who care about your learning — and remember your name 

  • practical, hands-on experiences — in every program 

  • a community that values diversity — and celebrates differences 

Walking together we achieve success. Our expertise becomes action, and we make a difference for our students, for our communities and for our planet.

Upcoming Program Webinars:

Session 1: Friday, September 8th

Session 2: Saturday, September 9th

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Graduates of the Baking and Pastry Arts Management Diploma can pursue entrepreneurship and employment opportunities in the following areas:

  • Small business development (bakeries, pastry shops, bakery cafes, chocolate shops);
  • Micro-business development in the gig economy (pop-up bakeries, cake decorating businesses);
  • Supplying quality baked goods to hotels, resorts, in-store bakeries, cruise ships.
  • Managing businesses that provide quality baked goods; and
  • Working in tourism and hospitality businesses as bakers, pastry chefs, cake decorators, chocolatiers.

Graduates of the Baking and Pastry Arts Management Diploma can transfer into the third year of the Bachelor of Hospitality Management program after completing a bridging semester.

Graduates of the Baking and Pastry Arts Management Diploma can enroll in Level 3 Technical Training in Baking and, after obtaining the required number of practical hours, write their Baker Red Seal exam.