New England Culinary Institute (NECI) was founded in 1980 with a unique educational model featuring “learn-by-doing” training in real-life situations. The school, which has two campuses—one in Essex Junction, Vt., and one in Montpelier, Vt.—produces highly qualified chefs, managers, culinary professionals and industry leaders. Recognized for its innovative immersion style, NECI is known for its low student-to-teacher ratio and for providing personal and focused hands-on education. NECI offers a bachelor’s degree in hospitality and restaurant management; associate’s degrees in culinary arts, hospitality and restaurant management, and baking and pastry arts; certificates in basic cooking, baking, and pastry arts, as well as a host of non-professional cooking programs. Also known for its fine dining and catering, the school operates diverse food service outlets that function as classrooms for the students and serve the public daily.