Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services

Gradia is offering a study programme in restaurant and catering services delivered completely in English. You will graduate as a cook, with a set of versatile skills for cooking, baking and customer service roles. After completing the qualification you will have strong language skills and the skills to work or study in international environments in the restaurant and catering industry.

Competence area

Food services

Extent of the studies: 180 CP

Average time of the studies is two to three years based on your personal competence development plan (PCDP) and prior competence.

Study time: 13 January 2025 – 31 December 2027
Application time: 1 August 2024 – 30 October 2024 Apply now (Hae koulutukseen -button)

Target groups

This qualification is suitable for you if

you are interested in completing the Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services in English
you are working in a multicultural organization
you are interested in advancing your career
you are interested in an international career
you have competences and skills working as a cook, but you would like to develop your language skills

Eligibility and how to apply

Basic entrance requirements for studying for vocational qualification in restaurant and catering services:

Completed Finnish comprehensive school or other basic education (approximately nine years, age 7–16)
Good written and oral command of English
18 years of age
Good mental and physical health relevant to cook’s profession is required. No medical records are requested.

Language requirements

Language skills are tested in a selection interview.
Good written and oral command of English.

Students are selected based on an interview and written exam.

Applicants will be contacted and invited to a selection interview within a week after the application period has ended.

Multiple ways of study

The study is carried out as full-time education in accordance with the personal competence development plan (PCDP). Teaching and guidance are provided as face-to-face, project and team learning as well as online and distance learning (Teams). Studies also include independent study as well as on-the-job learning.

Structure of the study

Scope of qualification is 180 competence points (cp).

Compulsory units: 85 competence points

Working in catering services: 20 competence points
Preparing lunch dishes: 40 competence points
Preparing plated dishes: 25 competence points

Optional units: 60 competence points

Preparing à la carte dishes: 30 competence points
Food preparation for catering services and special occasions: 25 competence points
Street and fast food services: 10 competence points
Café services: 10 competence points
Working in international environment: 15 competence points

Common units, 35 competence points

Communication and interaction skills
Skills in mathematics and natural sciences
Societal and working life skills

Costs of studies

There are no tuition fees, but you must purchase kitchen clothing, work shoes and other study material. Approximate costs are €300. Lectures and meals are free for all students.

Employment and opportunities for further studies

After completing the qualification, you will be able to work as a cook in restaurants and catering services with different business ideas. A vocational qualification gives students eligibility for further education in universities and universities of applied sciences in Finland as well as an advantage when working in international restaurant environments.

Contact info

Hakupalvelut, 040 341 6193, hakupalvelut@gradia.fi