CRC^® and CCS^® Candidate

The CRC^® & CCS^® Candidate status is a stepping stone to Certified Research Chef (CRC^®) and Certified Culinary Scientist (CCS^®) certification. Any qualified product developer who wishes to begin an early pursuit of RCA certification is encouraged to apply.

Pursuing this new designation will allow the many up and coming food scientists and chefs let the food industry know that they are increasing their food science and/or culinary competencies; they are gaining the skill set needed to be culinarily creative; and they will make sure the product is scientifically sound.

How do you know if you’re qualified?

If you are a chef, take a look at the education, food service work experience and R&D work experience eligibility criteria for the CRC^®. If you meet at least one of the three, you are ready to fill out an application!

On the food science side, take a look at the education, culinary arts and R&D work experience eligibility criteria for the CCS^®. If you meet at least one of the three, you are ready to fill out an application!

Application Fee

The application fees for members and non-members are $100 and $275, respectively, and may later be applied toward the CRC^® & CCS^® certification. 

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Ready to apply?

To submit a candidate application, please click the appropriate certification program: CCS^® or CRC^®. Then, be sure to identify your application as a candidate application.

CCS Candidate ApplicationCRC Candidate Application

Please contact RCA by email or call RCA Headquarters at (312) 321-6861 for information about the application process.