Since everyone in the world has to eat, the field of culinary arts truly spans the globe. It's a field where innate passion and creativity are mated to rigorous technique through formal schooling. Offering many career options and opportunities for advancement, it's a field with a world of possibilities for those who educate themselves and hone their skills.
The modern field of culinary arts traces its roots back to Marie-Antoine Carême and Georges-Auguste Escoffier. Carême's writings about food, recipes and menu planning drew the art of food creation into the modern era. Previously, cooks relied on tradition to direct their cooking. Instead, Carême encouraged thought and reason in the cooking process. Escoffier took these ideas further and organized large-scale kitchens into what's now known as the kitchen brigade.
To this day, most culinary arts programs emphasize French techniques and cooking history because of these two men.
If you're investigating entering the culinary arts field, several programs exist around the world. Different schools emphasize different types of cuisine and techniques. Financial aid is often available. A range of certifications is offered, including both associate's degrees and bachelor's degrees. Check to make sure your school is fully accredited before attending.

A Culinarian is a person who cooks professionally for other people. Although over time the term has come to describe any person who cooks for a living, traditionally it refers to a highly skilled professional who is proficient in all aspects of food preparation.