Food Business Management (Baking and Pastry Arts) Modules

An examination of the major historical and cultural underpinnings of the societies that constitute the Americas. Inherent in this endeavor is an effort to understand not only the culture of the United States but also those of Latin America. As we proceed through the twenty-first century, the global community takes on increased significance; therefore, it is imperative that we understand the historical and cultural developments of other nations.

Study the basic concepts of figure, ground, line, contrast, pattern, proportion, color, symmetry, movement, unity, and balance. Students learn the principles of two- and three-dimensional design and develop language to analyze product design, plate presentations, decoration, and packaging on visual, tactile, and conceptual levels.

This is a survey course in the theory and application of macroeconomics. In contrast with microeconomics, macroeconomics focuses on aggregate behavior, or the behavior of the economy as a whole. The student will be introduced to methods of economic reasoning and the variety of ways economists develop models based on observed behavior. The focus throughout the semester will be the understanding of the relationship between economics and policy, which requires an understanding of history and institutions. The course develops a theoretical framework for macroeconomic analysis and applies this theory to practical domestic and international economic policy problems, specifically: unemployment, inflation, business cycles (fluctuations in the economy), and growth.

This course introduces the basics of decorative work as applied to showpieces and special occasion cakes. Sugar work such as pulled, blown, and poured will be covered, as will the use of tempered and modeling chocolate. During the second half of the course, students will have the opportunity to design and execute their own three-tier wedding cake as well as work on a special occasion cake and team wedding cake using gumpaste, pastillage, chocolate, or marzipan. Students will be required to complete piping homework. Prerequisite(s): Individual and Production Pastries (BAKE-124).

This course will focus on chocolate and confectionery technology, ingredient function, and the production of chocolates and confections in an artisan setting. Vital concepts in both theory and practice will include controlling the crystallization of fats and sugars, manipulating water and free water in centers, and understanding the mechanics of emulsions. Students will apply their knowledge of these concepts in daily production of a wide range of chocolates and confections. Types of centers to be discussed and produced include varieties of ganache, crystalline and non-crystalline sugar confections, nut-based centers, jellies, and aerated confections. Ingredient function will focus on fats, nutritive sweeteners, dairy products, binding agents, and chocolate. Techniques include chocolate tempering methods, sugar cooking technique, hand dipping centers, and shell molding. Students entering this class should have a working knowledge of chocolate-handling techniques and chocolate tempering.

An examination of cakes and desserts that are assembled and decorated with a modern approach using the latest technology and equipment. Topics will include small cakes decorated as a whole; cakes finished in molds or rings; and items that can be used for cakes, desserts, or individual pastries. Students will use specialized equipment, practice new presentation methods, and focus on fresh products, simplicity of style, and ease of production.

An examination of baking methods and principles from a nutritional and chemical/physical point of view. Students will conduct experiments (using controlled formulas) and nutritional analyses on various baking ingredients and products in order to develop a better understanding of baking principles. Topics include preparation of common products with a variety of ingredients; diets such as vegan, diabetic, and gluten-free; nutritional labels; and preparation of desserts, breads, and cakes for persons with special dietary needs.

Whether you manage and/or own a restaurant, operate a catering business, or run a food truck, there are certain fundamental management skills that apply to all foodservice operations. The ability to write well-balanced menus that meet the needs of your customers and are operationally functional and profitable is paramount to success. This course will highlight the basic principles of developing enticing menus that comply with truth-in-menus guidelines, as well as incorporating current research on consumer behavior relative to menu layout, design, and sales that maximize profit. Additionally, this course will focus on the management functions of running a profitable foodservice establishment, including the control process and managing revenue and expenses.

For students who have had little or no previous exposure to the language. This course is a foundation in spoken and written French, listening and reading comprehension, grammatical usage, and cultural backgrounds. Class will be conducted in French and students will spend weekly sessions in a language laboratory.

This course advances critical reading, thinking, and writing abilities through the study of literature. While acquiring requisite vocabulary, skills, and background knowledge, students will learn how to read literary texts more perceptively and how texts generate meaning. Students will communicate this learning through critical essays exploring specific literary texts. Readings may include novels, essays, short fiction, poetry, and drama. Class sessions will introduce and enforce key elements of information literacy.

This course advances critical reading, thinking, and writing abilities through the study of literature. While acquiring requisite vocabulary, skills, and background knowledge, students will learn how to read literary texts more perceptively and how texts generate meaning. Students will communicate this learning through critical essays exploring specific literary texts. Readings may include novels, essays, short fiction, poetry, and drama. Class sessions will introduce and enforce key elements of information literacy. Prerequisite(s): College Writing (ENGL-120) or College Writing for English Language Learners (ENGL-122).