What Is It Known For?
The Iowa Culinary Institute ICI, located within Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC), is known for offering a premier culinary education focusing on hands-on, industry-driven learning. Founded in 1966, DMACC is one of Iowa’s largest community colleges and is part of the Iowa Community College System, a network that provides accessible education across the state.
While DMACC serves as the umbrella institution, ICI is a specialized program that offers exceptional culinary arts and hospitality management education. ICI serves a substantial number of students each semester, equipping them with the practical skills and industry knowledge required to succeed in the competitive culinary field.
Degrees & Certifications
The Iowa Culinary Institute (ICI) offers several programs to prepare students for careers in the culinary and hospitality industries. These include:
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Culinary Arts
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Hospitality Management
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Certificate in Hospitality Management
Class Schedules
The programs at ICI offer flexible scheduling with morning, afternoon, and evening options to accommodate various students. The curriculum includes a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training, with many programs featuring externships or work-based learning opportunities in real-world settings.
Is It Legit?
The Iowa Culinary Institute is part of DMACC, an accredited institution by the Higher Learning Commission(HLC). Additionally, DMACC is approved by the Iowa Department of Education, providing further assurance of its legitimacy as a recognized educational provider in the state.
Acceptance Rate
DMACC has an open enrollment policy, meaning most students who meet basic requirements are admitted. Acceptance into specialized programs like ICI may involve additional criteria, such as interviews or academic prerequisites.
How Much Does It Cost (Tuition)?
Tuition for in-state students is $193 per credit hour, while non-resident students pay $223 per credit hour. Additional costs may include fees for tools, uniforms, and materials specific to the program. For more detailed information on tuition, fees, and financial assistance, visit the DMACC Tuition and Fees page.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Office Administration
- Accounting
- Bookkeeping
- Communications
- Entrepreneurship
- Human Resources
- Marketing
Criminal Justice & Law
- Criminal Justice
- Legal Courses
- Paralegal
- Public Safety
Healthcare
- Child Care
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Hygiene
- Exercise Science
- Medical Coding & Billing
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Laboratory Technology
- Nursing
- Phlebotomy
- Respiratory Therapy
- Veterinary Technology
Professional Services
- Baking
- Cosmetology
- Culinary Arts
- Dog Grooming
- Graphic Design
- Theatre Program
Skilled Trades
- Auto Collision
- Automotive Mechanics Technology
- Construction
- Diesel Technology
- Electrical
- Fire Science
- Fitness Center
- HVAC
- Manufacturing
- Construction
Technology
- Computer Science
- Computer Aided Design
- Cybersecurity
- Information Technology
- Network Administration Program
Campus Locations
Ankeny 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Ankeny, IA 50023
Boone 1125 Hancock Drive, Boone, IA 50036
Carroll 906 North Grant Road, Carroll, IA 51401
Des Moines 1100 7th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314
Newton 600 N. 2nd Ave. West, Newton, IA 50208
West Des Moines 5959 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Ames 1420 South Bell Avenue, Ames, IA 50010
Des Moines 1300 Des Moines Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
Des Moines 1171 7th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314
Perry 1011 2nd Street, Perry, IA 50220
Des Moines 1111 E. Army Post Road, Des Moines, IA
Templeton 123 S. Main Street Templeton, IA 51463
Des Moines 2081 NE 54th Ave Des Moines, IA 50313
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, the provided feedback is overwhelmingly positive and focuses on the dining experience at the Iowa Culinary Institute’s student-run bistro rather than the academic program itself. While this suggests a high quality of instruction in a hands-on environment, a deeper look at the institute’s educational program reveals key details about its curriculum and student outcomes.
Overall Score: 4.8/5 Stars
Common Praises
Excellent Dining Experience: The reviews primarily praise the quality of the food and the professional presentation at the student-run bistro. Diners describe the food as “amazing” and “almost too pretty to eat.”
Great Value: Customers feel that the multi-course lunch for $15 is an excellent value for the quality of food and service received.
Positive Atmosphere: Reviewers mention that the dining experience is enjoyable, with one person calling it “great” and “fun.”
Common Criticisms
Inconsistent Food Quality: Some guests have noted issues with food temperature, with a few instances of dishes, like soup, being served lukewarm.
Water Taste: One review criticizes the tap water taste, suggesting a need for water treatment.
Unsatisfactory Service: A few negative dining experiences are mentioned, including a dish being undercooked and a server appearing inattentive.
Momentum
The reviews show a consistent trend of high praise for the student-run restaurant. While the feedback is not from students about their academic experience, it is a strong indicator of the hands-on learning and professional skills they gain.