Chef colleges provide professional culinary arts certificates to students who complete required course work.  Most of the courses offered are designed by professional chefs who often provide hands-on training to students.  Most schools offer several courses throughout the year so that new students can always be accommodated.  Once you have decided on a school, you can request an application and any additional information.  You will then receive everything you need to know about that particular school.  When you start your culinary arts education, you will be given a brief introduction to the school and the programs it offers.