Description
The Culinary Skills Indigenous program is designed to prepare you to work in the culinary industry by providing courses aimed at developing fundamental skills and knowledge, including basic business skills. Courses will be presented through a combination of classroom based theory and lab-based practice. You will also obtain certifications in Food Handler Level 1, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), First Aid, and Fire Safety. The first two terms will consist of a combination of lab-based culinary skills development and theory classes. The third term will be spent working in a cooperative work placement in the culinary industry. Students are paid by the industry partner during the co-op term.
DOCUMENT SUBMISSION
Upload Through Your Future Student Account
If you do not have a Future Student Account or require assistance, please contact our Student Service Centre at 204-632-2327.
Internationally Educated Applicants - visit www.rrc.ca/credentials for credential assessment information.
However, if you apply within 6 weeks of the program start date, admission requirements are due within 5 days of applying.
If you have a food allergy, review our accommodation of food allergies information before applying.
Regular Admission Requirements
Mature Student Admission Requirements
If you are 19 years of age or older and have been out of high school for a minimum of one year at time of application, and you do not meet the regular admission requirements, you may apply under the Mature Student admission requirements. You must meet Regular Admission Requirement 2.
| English Language Assessment | Minimum Required Levels | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L - Listening, S - Speaking, R - Reading, W - Writing | L | S | R | W |
| AEPUCE
(Academic English Program of University and College Entrance )
Requirement: Submission of a parchment (certificate) indicating successful completion of the AEPUCE program, including language levels achieved if available. | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| CAEL and CAEL Online (Canadian Academic English Language) | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 |
| CLB (LINC)
(Canadian Language Benchmark - Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada)
Canadian Citizens: LINC programs are not available. | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| Communication for Culinary Skills (RRC Pathway) | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| Duolingo
(Duolingo English Test)
* MINIMUM OVERAL SCORE OF 115 REQUIRED. There are no minimum required levels for L,S,R,W. Only Duolingo English Test scores that have been verified through the Duolingo English Test Portal will be accepted. | 0* | 0* | 0* | 0* |
| IELTS - Academic
(International English Language Testing System)
Please Note: 3 year expiry date for Nursing Program Applicants | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| PTE - Academic Online Assessment (Pearson Test of English) | 58 | 58 | 50 | 50 |
| Password Skills
(An in person English Language Assessment hosted by RRC Polytech)
This in-person, computer-based test is composed of four test modules: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The test takes 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete and is conducted in two parts. The first part assesses reading, listening, and writing, and the second part assesses speaking in a separate room.
Password Skills is hosted by the RRC Polytech Testing and Assessment Centre: E440, Manitou a bi Bii Daziigae building, on the fourth floor.
If you wish to do Password Skills remotely (not in-person), Password Skills Plus can be taken online. RRC Polytech does not offer Password Skills Plus, but we do accept the results for entry into program.
| 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| Password Skills Plus (Password Skills Plus is an online assessment that can be taken instead of Password Skills. ) | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| TOEFL-iBT
(Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet Based Test)
To meet the needs of students who are unable to take the TOEFL iBT® test at a test center due to public health concerns, ETS is temporarily offering the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition test in selected areas. | 20 | 20 | 18 | 21 |
You should enrol in this program if you are looking to begin a career in the culinary industry. The program combines theory and practice to develop well-rounded culinary skills and knowledge. In addition to courses aimed at developing and advancing culinary skills, you will take courses to develop basic business skills. Previous culinary experience is an asset.
To be successful in the program, you should enjoy cooking, working with your hands, and have good manual dexterity.
You must be in good physical condition as you will be on your feet most of the day. Working in a commercial kitchen is very demanding, often involving long hours, shift work, and working under pressure. Ability to work in teams is essential.
For information on the Accommodation of Food Allergies for Culinary, Baking and Hospitality students, please click here.
| Location | Start Date | Apply Link |
|---|---|---|
| Notre Dame Campus | Aug 25, 2025 | Apply Now |
Students may apply for financial assistance through the Manitoba Student Aid program. For general information on applying please call 204-945-6321 or 1-800-204-1685, or visit their website at www.manitobastudentaid.ca, which also includes an online application. For detailed information, please visit one of the RRC Polytech Student Service Centres or call 204-632-2327. Applicants requiring financial assistance should complete their student loan applications well in advance of the class start date.
The ability to communicate effectively with people in your own organization, as well as with clients and the public, while using a variety of technologies, is highly valued in today’s workforce. You will represent your organization, and your organization's success will depend on you.
This communication course is designed to develop students' basic understanding of the principles of communication, with an emphasis on practical applications in business situations. Students will prepare and use written and oral communication effectively and efficiently. Since precision, clarity, and accuracy are essential to effective business communication, this course will emphasize style, content, and strategy. By reading assigned material, participating in discussions, honing their writing skills, completing assignments, and making oral presentations, students will develop sound business communication skills.
In this course, students will gain the skills needed to obtain employment in the Culinary sector. Topics covered include job searches, cover letters, resume writing and interview skills.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with the basic food knowledge and skills to prepare cold food items. Students will apply basic knife skills, and apply safety and sanitation procedures appropriate to the preparation of foods in a Garde Manger kitchen. Students will apply basic skills through the mise en place and the preparation of salad dressing, basic salads, sandwiches and hors d’oeuvres. Students will also study and identify the application of basic garnishing and presentation techniques.
Baking and pastry proficiencies are important in developing a comprehensive skill set for Culinary Professionals. This course focuses on developing an understanding of essential pastry production methods. Concepts related to ingredient function and characteristics, baking and pastry equipment, and basic baking principles will be covered. Students will become proficient in the production of basic baked products such as yeast-raised goods, quick breads, cookies, pastries, cakes, custards, sauces and basic desserts through theory and practical application. Daily practical evaluations, projects, and final practical exam are used to facilitate learning and assess student progress.
This course is to provide students with the basic foundation on which to build a fundamental knowledge of hot food preparation. While working in a hot preparations kitchen, students will further develop knife skills by learning fundamental cuts and techniques while applying those basic skills safely and effectively. Students learn the basic skills and food knowledge used in the hot kitchen through the mise en place and the preparation of stocks, sauces, thickening agents, vegetables, starches and protein cookery. Through theoretical and lab work, students will also learn to apply appropriate basic cooking methods to hot foods in both classical and modern applications.
The use of modern technology is essential to
operating in the hospitality industry. By the end of this course, students will be
able to use Microsoft productivity software efficiently and effectively. Using
a teacher-led, practical approach, students will work through a variety of tutorials
and exercises that will enable them to develop, demonstrate, and apply
introductory and intermediate competencies using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint,
and Excel.
This course applies the fundamental practices and procedures used at all levels in the foodservice industry and in preparation for working in the kitchen labs. Practicing food safety and sanitation, following safe working procedures and accurately reading, converting and measuring recipes and ingredients are critical skills used in foodservice. Students will analyze food safety and sanitation case studies and write a report on critical practices and procedures. Students will identify professional kitchen tools and equipment and explain basic safety procedures when using hand tools or equipment and working in a professional kitchen. Students will use basic math skills to convert recipe yields and measurements.
Short order cooking is the foundation to the workflow and organizational structure of any restaurant. Students will learn the basic skills used in the short order kitchen through the mise en place and preparation of breakfast, beverages, dairy products, soup and hot sandwiches. Working in a kitchen brigade, students will be expected to work safely while demonstrating teamwork, leadership and professionalism. Students will also develop methods of seasoning, flavour building and presentation skills through the practical application of basic short order techniques. Theoretical study will include the study of breakfast cookery; uses of eggs, and dairy products.
Learners will participate, explore and become aware of the traditional and contemporary teachings, ceremonies and way of life of the First Nation families. Learners will become the carriers of the knowledge & wisdom given and share with others upon completion of the learning circle. Learners will examine in an in-depth instruction of each the teachings, ceremonies and history of each lesson
This course covers initial assessments, airway management, breathing, shock, poisons, how to call for emergency and medical assistance, secondary assessments, wounds, HeartSaver, CPR, and medical emergencies. Upon completion, students will receive an Emergency First Aid certificate from St. John Ambulance.
Students will learn to handle fire emergencies through exploring the ABC's of fires, different types of extinguishers, and getting hands-on experience with a fire extinguisher. The training will involve a combination of hands-on work and practical theory using a computer-based training package.
Students will spend a minimum of 400 hours in a paid culinary industry-specific work placement. This provides them with an opportunity to apply, reinforce, and enhance the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they have acquired in their first year courses at Red River College in a real-life, professional setting. Performance is monitored and evaluated by the employer, the student, and the Hospitality Department.
You will be required to purchase a laptop computer and related software for use throughout the program.
The use of laptop computers is an integral part of this program. It will enhance your learning and competitiveness in the job market. This universal-access approach to learning is a shared one between students and the College. Laptop and software specifications will be provided to you by the College after you are accepted into the program to ensure the laptop complies with the program requirements.
Do not purchase a laptop until you have been accepted and registered in the program. Laptop Requirements
The College will also provide a detailed list of required software, network access, and help desk support if you require assistance. You will have on-campus access to e-mail, College networks, and the Internet.
Off-campus access to the Internet is the responsibility of the student.
Please refer to https://www.rrc.ca/future-students/computer-requirements/ for further information on Computer Requirements for Students.
Some of the courses offered in Culinary Skills are identical to those offered in the College's Hospitality and Tourism Management program. Culinary Arts Students wishing to continue their education in that program are eligible for credit in common courses successfully completed. Students who complete the one year certificate may choose to continue in the two-year Culinary Arts diploma program at Paterson Global Foods Institute (RRC Polytech).
Credit toward programs at other post-secondary institutions:
Ryerson University
For more information, contact the Ryerson University Admissions department.
University of Manitoba
For more information, contact the U of M Faculty of Science (Human Nutritional Sciences).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which documents and compares an individual's prior learning gained from prior education, work and life experiences and personal study to the learning outcomes in College courses/programs. For more information, please visit www.rrc.ca/rpl.
A complete list of awards, bursaries, and scholarships can be found at catalogue.rrc.ca/AvailableAwards
Awards are available to persons of Indigenous ancestry who are Canadian citizens and Manitoba residents who are presently enrolled or planning to enroll in a Manitoba public post-secondary institution in any program. You must maintain full-time status (60% or more course load) and be in need of financial assistance. Awards for college students are valued at a minimum of $2000.00 and students are eligible to reapply each year of their studies. Recipients may be considered for summer and part-time employment with one of the Business Council’s member companies. Applications are available from the Business Council's website at (www.businesscouncil.mb.ca). Please submit applications as soon as possible even if you are not yet registered for classes. Award application deadline is May31st.
Please contact us with any questions: bcmawards@businesscouncil.mb.ca or (204) 942-3637.
This fund is made possible by a generous donation from The Joyce Family Foundation, which is committed to providing access to education for youth who face significant financial barriers and have demonstrated the ability to overcome obstacles and adversity. Ten bursaries, valued at up to $5,000 each, will be awarded annually to full-time students entering the first year of any full-time program at Red River College Polytechnic to cover tuition fees. The focus of this bursary program is to assist youth in care. Applicants for the Youth in Care Tuition Bursary will be given priority, with preference extended to Indigenous students. To be eligible, students must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a protected person as well as a resident of Manitoba and have graduated from high school within the last three years. Recipient selection will be based on a combination of demonstrated financial need, as determined by RRC Polytech, as well as a reference letter from an individual who is aware of the student's personal circumstances and can speak to their resilience in the face of adversity and potential for success in their post-secondary studies. Selected students must commit to working with a mentor throughout their studies. The deadline for applications for current or former youth in care is March 31st. Information and an application form (for the Youth in Care Tuition Bursary) is available from the Futures Forward website: Paying for Post-Secondary School | Futures Forward. Students who are not current or former youth in care are also welcome to apply, but they will be considered only after all Youth in Care applicants have been reviewed, provided they meet the other eligibility requirements and criteria. In this case the RRC Polytech General Application should be submitted, accompanied by the required reference letter. The application deadline is June 30th. Please note the name of the award to enter on the application form and have additional required documents ready to upload.
An award valued at a minimum of $400 is available annually to a student who is currently enrolled in a full time certificate or diploma program at RRC Polytech, and is a dependent (defined as: an employee's or their spouse’s unmarried and financially dependent natural, adopted or step child or any other unmarried financially dependent child for whom you or your spouse has been appointed guardian and who is less than 25 years of age; or your spouse or common-law partner who is not engaged in full time employment and dependent on you for financial support) of an RRC Polytech employee (member of the MGEU bargaining unit). To be considered, students should submit an application form, accompanied by a one-page letter describing why they chose RRC Polytech, and specifically their program, for their post-secondary education, as well as their short- and long-term career goals. Also required is a statement from the RRC Polytech employee, including their full name, work address and phone number as well as the number of years they have been employed at RRC Polytech. Application deadline date is September 30th.
A $1000 scholarship shall be awarded annually to a student who is a resident of Canada, coming from a small rural community, who has enrolled full-time in the first year of any Red River College Polytechnic program. Selection will be based upon high academic standing as indicated by the high school transcript which must be included. Applicants must also provide a short statement discussing why they chose RRC Polytech and how they plan to be successful in transitioning into college life. If a tie for GPA occurs, the contents of the statement will be considered to select the successful recipient. The application deadline is August 15th. Please note the name of the award to enter on the application form and have additional required documents ready to upload.
Removing the financial barriers to education, RRC Polytech has a minimum of nine one-year tuition bursaries (maximum $6500 each) available (three of which will be for Trades programs) to Youth in Care. Youth must meet College entrance requirements, attend full-time studies with a full-time course load and be in financial need. Information and an application form is available from the Futures Forward website: Paying for Post-Secondary School | Futures Forward .
One award, valued at $1000, is available annually for a student with a disability, registered with Student Accessibility Services or Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services, who would benefit from assistive technology. Students must be eligible to continue in their program and demonstrate efforts in academic progress. They must also be ineligible for government assistive technology grants (e.g., Canada Student Grant), and not be sponsored by a government or community agency. To apply, students should write a brief letter, jointly with their Student Accessibility Services Accessibility Specialist or Deaf and Hard of Hearing Manager (when applicable), requesting the specific equipment/technology the student would like to obtain, and stating how that equipment will be beneficial. The letter should be submitted to the Student Accessibility Services Assistive Technologist. Deadline for applications is December 5th.
An award, valued at
$2500 is available to a full-time first-year Red River College Polytechnic student enrolled
in a program of two or more years in duration. The recipient will have their
award renewed for the additional years required for their same program, if the
criteria continue to be met each year. This award will support a student
who lives in Manitoba and has confidence in pursuing post-secondary education
with the intention of contributing to Manitoba’s economy after graduation.
A qualified candidate will:
•
Be a Canadian citizen, and Manitoba high school graduate
•
Have achieved a minimum 2.5 GPA or 65% or C+ average
•
Have demonstrated financial need
•
Maintain full-time studies
To be considered, an application should be submitted, accompanied by a birth certificate or citizenship card and a Manitoba high school transcript. This award will be available for the 2023/24 academic year. Application deadline is January 15, 2024. Please note the name of the award to enter on the application form and have additional required documents ready to upload.
Awards are available to persons of Indigenous ancestry who are Canadian citizens and Manitoba residents who are presently enrolled or planning to enroll in a Manitoba public post-secondary institution in any program. You must maintain full-time status (60% or more course load) and be in need of financial assistance. Awards for college students are valued at a minimum of $2000.00 and students are eligible to reapply each year of their studies. Recipients may be considered for summer and part-time employment with one of the Business Council’s member companies. Applications are available from the Business Council's website at (www.businesscouncil.mb.ca). Please submit applications as soon as possible even if you are not yet registered for classes. Award application deadline is May31st.
Please contact us with any questions: bcmawards@businesscouncil.mb.ca or (204) 942-3637.
This is an $1000 award given annually to a student who demonstrates exceptional effort and/or the ability to lead, organize and engage students or members of the community in embodying the values of equity, diversity, inclusion, multiculturalism and social justice.
The successful recipient will be a community activist, advocate or leader who has worked for systemic changes at various levels and with various social identities in mind. Their advocacy may involve (but is not limited to): human rights, LGBTT* issues, anti-racism, anti-poverty, public health, non-violence, community-building and student engagement, or encouraging others on issues of social justice that impact the lives of students and the broader community.
Applications will be evaluated by the Selection Committee, based on the following criteria:
• Making a significant contribution to equity, inclusion and social justice through community engagement, either in specific positions of responsibility or while involved in organizing activities. (Requirements: Student statement and at least one reference letter)
• Engaging and inspiring other students or members of the community to advocate on social justice issues that impact the lives of students or the general community.
• Financial need may also be considered. Applicants may choose to complete the financial section of the application, and/or include information.
All full-time and part-time Red River College students are welcome to apply. The general application form must be accompanied by a student statement and required letter(s) of reference in order to be considered. The deadline for applications is March 1st. Completed application forms should be submitted by email to financialaid@rrc.ca .
An award valued at a minimum of $400 is available annually to a student who is currently enrolled in a full time certificate or diploma program at RRC Polytech, and is a dependent (defined as: an employee's or their spouse’s unmarried and financially dependent natural, adopted or step child or any other unmarried financially dependent child for whom you or your spouse has been appointed guardian and who is less than 25 years of age; or your spouse or common-law partner who is not engaged in full time employment and dependent on you for financial support) of an RRC Polytech employee (member of the MGEU bargaining unit). To be considered, students should submit an application form, accompanied by a one-page letter describing why they chose RRC Polytech, and specifically their program, for their post-secondary education, as well as their short- and long-term career goals. Also required is a statement from the RRC Polytech employee, including their full name, work address and phone number as well as the number of years they have been employed at RRC Polytech. Application deadline date is September 30th.
One award of $1000 will be awarded annually to a Red River College Polytechnic student who can demonstrate exceptional involvement in their community and/or college. A letter of reference verifying the applicant's involvement must accompany the application. The application deadline is October 15th. Please note the name of the award to enter on the application form and have additional required documents ready to upload.
Four scholarships of $500 each will be awarded to international students, attending a post-secondary Red River College Polytechnic program on a full-time basis. The scholarships will be presented to the students who attain the highest GPA after their first term; applicants must have achieved a minimum 4.25 GPA after first term. A first term grade report should accompany the application, as well as a one-page statement outlining your experience thus far in Canada and at Red River College Polytechnic. In the event of a tie for GPA achieved after first term, the contents of the one-page statement will be considered to select the successful recipients. The application deadline is January 15th (students must apply while enrolled in their first year, with the exception of those students who have not yet completed their first term by January 15th). Please note the name of the award to enter on the application form and have additional required documents ready to upload.
One award, valued at $1500 is available annually to assist a student with a disability or disabilities (documented physical, mental health, learning disabilities, chronic medical conditions as well as a vision and hearing loss). Students who are experiencing significant financial need, and are maintaining satisfactory academic progress, may be eligible to receive this award. Students may apply by speaking with an Accessibility Specialist in Student Accessibility Services or the Manager, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services. The application must include a letter of support from the Manager/Accessibility Specialist the student is working with and an essay or summary from the student describing their situation/need. Submit the application to the Manager, Student Accessibility Services. Deadline for applications is December 5th.
Bursaries are available annually to assist students, who are clients of Student Counselling Services. Students who are experiencing financial hardship may be eligible to receive a bursary. Criteria:
•The student is eligible to continue in program
•The student has significant financial need that without assistance, may place them at risk for withdrawing from their program
•The student demonstrates efforts at academic progress
Maximum bursary is $500. Students may apply one time per year for a crisis bursary. No deadline date. Bursaries are available until limited funds expire. Inquiries should be directed to a manager or counsellor in Student Counselling Services.
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization Every Child Matters Scholarship was created in honour of the children who attended residential schools and those who never made it home. Southern Chiefs’ Organization recognizes that all First Nation people, families, and communities have been impacted by the residential schools. The $2000 scholarship is intended to support Survivors and their descendants, as well as descendants of the families of the children who died. The scholarship is to be awarded on the basis of academic merit to a status citizen of one of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization member First Nations (Berens River, Birdtail Sioux, Black River, Bloodvein, Brokenhead, Buffalo, Canupawakpa, Dakota, Dauphin River, Ebb and Flow, Gambler, Hollow Water, Keeseekoowenin, Kinonjeoshtegon, Lake Manitoba, Lake St. Martin, Little Grand Rapids, Little Saskatchewan, Long Plain, O-Ch-Chak-Koo-Sipi, Pauingassi, Point Pegui, Pinaymootang, Plains Pine Creek, Poplar River, Rolling River, Roseau River, Sagkeeng, Sandy Bay, Skownan, Swan Lake, Tootinaowaziibeeng, or Waywayseecappo), who is a full- or part-time continuing student at the Red River College Polytechnic, who has successfully completed at least 12 credit hours, and who has made contributions to their school community or their community at large. Applicants must submit a letter describing their school or community involvement. The contact information of the chosen recipient shall be disclosed to the donor each year. Southern Chiefs' Organization Inc. observes an annual commemoration of all successful applicants. By submitting an application for the scholarship, the recipient of the Scholarship consents to be contacted through electronic mail or telephone for a brief interview with a member of Southern Chiefs’ Organization. In the unlikely event of a mitigating circumstance, such as a protection order or equivalent, anonymity will be granted to the recipient of the Scholarship. Application deadline is January 31st. Please note the name of the award to enter on the application form and have additional required documents ready to upload.
Awards are available to persons of Indigenous ancestry who are Canadian citizens and Manitoba residents who are presently enrolled or planning to enroll in a Manitoba public post-secondary institution in any program. You must maintain full-time status (60% or more course load) and be in need of financial assistance. Awards for college students are valued at a minimum of $2000.00 and students are eligible to reapply each year of their studies. Recipients may be considered for summer and part-time employment with one of the Business Council’s member companies. Applications are available from the Business Council's website at (www.businesscouncil.mb.ca). Please submit applications as soon as possible even if you are not yet registered for classes. Award application deadline is May31st.
Please contact us with any questions: bcmawards@businesscouncil.mb.ca or (204) 942-3637.
Numerous awards with various values are available for Indigenous students pursuing full-time study in an eligible program with minimum two year duration. Applications deadlines are June 1, November 1 and February 1. Further information is available at www.indspire.ca. Applications are only accepted on-line and students will need to create a login.
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization Every Child Matters Scholarship was created in honour of the children who attended residential schools and those who never made it home. Southern Chiefs’ Organization recognizes that all First Nation people, families, and communities have been impacted by the residential schools. The $2000 scholarship is intended to support Survivors and their descendants, as well as descendants of the families of the children who died. The scholarship is to be awarded on the basis of academic merit to a status citizen of one of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization member First Nations (Berens River, Birdtail Sioux, Black River, Bloodvein, Brokenhead, Buffalo, Canupawakpa, Dakota, Dauphin River, Ebb and Flow, Gambler, Hollow Water, Keeseekoowenin, Kinonjeoshtegon, Lake Manitoba, Lake St. Martin, Little Grand Rapids, Little Saskatchewan, Long Plain, O-Ch-Chak-Koo-Sipi, Pauingassi, Point Pegui, Pinaymootang, Plains Pine Creek, Poplar River, Rolling River, Roseau River, Sagkeeng, Sandy Bay, Skownan, Swan Lake, Tootinaowaziibeeng, or Waywayseecappo), who is a full- or part-time continuing student at the Red River College Polytechnic, who has successfully completed at least 12 credit hours, and who has made contributions to their school community or their community at large. Applicants must submit a letter describing their school or community involvement. The contact information of the chosen recipient shall be disclosed to the donor each year. Southern Chiefs' Organization Inc. observes an annual commemoration of all successful applicants. By submitting an application for the scholarship, the recipient of the Scholarship consents to be contacted through electronic mail or telephone for a brief interview with a member of Southern Chiefs’ Organization. In the unlikely event of a mitigating circumstance, such as a protection order or equivalent, anonymity will be granted to the recipient of the Scholarship. Application deadline is January 31st. Please note the name of the award to enter on the application form and have additional required documents ready to upload.