Welcome information: Diploma in Culinary Arts
Congratulations – you’re now part of the Diploma in Culinary Arts at AUT. This is where a love of food becomes a professional skillset. Our graduates go on to work as chefs and in product development. Excited to see what your future holds?
Below is the key information you'll need for your first year. Bookmark this page – some of it will be relevant later in your studies too.
First things first – let's get you set up
My AUT
My AUT is your online portal for enrolment, timetables and results. Log in with your AUT credentials to access Canvas, check your courses and manage your enrolment. Your timetable updates as classes confirm, so check it regularly – especially in the week before semester starts.
Orientation
Orientation is your first chance to get your bearings – on campus and in your programme. Alongside AUT-wide events, there'll be a session specific to your faculty where you'll meet your academic team and connect with other students. It's worth being there.
Important dates
Keep these dates handy:
- 15 February: Orientation
- 22 February: Semester 1 starts
- 5 – 16 April: Mid-semester break (no classes)
- 31 May – 18 June: Examination period
Your programme
The Diploma in Culinary Arts runs over two years. You’ll build your foundations in Year 1, then develop advanced techniques and kitchen management skills in Year 2 – you’ll need to complete both to graduate. Your full programme structure is on your programme page.
Your first-year courses
You've been enrolled in:
Semester 1
- CULN408 Culinary Fundamentals
- CULN409 Produce to Plate
Semester 2
- CULN410 Pâtisserie
- CULN411 Commercial Production Kitchen
Questions about your enrolment or want to make changes? Contact the programme administration team in WB327 or email csoc.general@aut.ac.nz
Your equipment
From chef’s jackets to boning knives, everything on the equipment list is essential for your coursework. Check the list for what to buy and where to find it in Auckland.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
If you've studied at another tertiary institution or have relevant experience, you may be eligible for credit towards your programme of study. Check out the RPL information and apply as early as possible – if your application is approved, your enrolment may need to be updated before semester begins.
Need support or advice?
Starting university is a big milestone; it can feel exciting and a little overwhelming. To help you get started, read through the new student information – it covers everything you need to hit the ground running.
We’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you need academic advice, wellbeing support or help navigating university life, these services are available to you:
Course and academic advice | Wellbeing and disability support, Fees, Visas, ID Cards | Māori Student Support | Pacific Student Support |
Culture and Society & Te Ara Poutama Programme Administration Office | Student Hub | Pou Māori | Vā Pasifika |
Peer mentoring
Sometimes the best advice comes from someone who's just been where you are. Peer mentors are fellow AUT students who know what starting out feels like – and they're here to help you find your feet.
They run drop-in sessions throughout semester. Find out who your peer mentors are and when to catch them on Canvas once you've got your network login.
The AUT App – everything in one place
Your timetable, grades, campus maps, shuttle times, events and more – all in the AUT App. Download it once you have your network login and you'll have what you need for uni right there.
Download the app from:
Canvas – where your learning lives
Canvas is AUT's online learning environment. Your course materials, readings, announcements and resources all live here. Each course you're enrolled in will appear on your Canvas dashboard during Orientation week.