WHEN TBD 2026
DURATION 7 months – 15 weeks of class/lab + placement
CREDITI 60 ECTS, EQF/MQF Level 5
LOCATION ITALY (Brescia) – FRANCE (Lyon) – MALTA
TEACHING METHOD Theoretical and Practical
Mediterranean Gastronomy
Advanced Program
Mediterranean Gastronomy
Advanced Program
An international program shaping the next generation of Mediterranean culinary
leaders.
The Mediterranean Gastronomy Educational Partnership (MGEP) is a unique,
collaborative program brought to life by CAST (Italy), the Institute of Tourism Studies (Malta), and Institut Lyfe in Lyon (France)—formerly known as Institut Paul Bocuse.
Designed for aspiring chefs, hospitality managers, culinary consultants, and specialists in Mediterranean cuisine, this comprehensive program spans twosemesters and combines intensive classroom/laboratory instruction with real-worldindustry placements.
Mediterranean Gastronomy offers a rigorous, hands-on educational experience focused on both the theoretical and practical mastery of Mediterranean culinary arts. Participants gain a deep understanding of the region’s rich gastronomic heritage, learning to apply advanced food preparation techniques and to design menus that celebrate the ingredients, traditions, and innovation inherent in Mediterranean cuisine.
The Rotational Campus Training classroom-based phase of the program is conducted across the three partner institutions, rotating every five weeks:
- CAST (Italy)
- Institut Lyfe (Lyon, France)
- Institute of Tourism Studies (Malta)
Training sessions are full-time, from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, although schedules may vary depending on the weekly academic activities.
To ensure the highest quality learning environment, the course maintains
limited enrollment. Admission is granted based on the successful outcome of an interview process, designed to assess motivation, background, and potential.
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PROGRAM
The MGEP program is thoughtfully structured across two dynamic semesters, blending theoretical knowledge, hands-on training, and real-world experience to develop well-rounded professionals in Mediterranean gastronomy.
The first semester immerses students in both practical skills and academic insight,
offering a deep and comprehensive introduction to Mediterranean culinary arts.
Through:
- Hands-on kitchen training
- Interactive theoretical module
- Experiential learning activities
students learn to craft authentic Mediterranean dishes with a modern
edge—respecting tradition while embracing innovation. Emphasis is placed on the use of regional ingredients, sustainable cooking practices, and understanding the cultural, historical, and geographical influences that define Mediterranean cuisine.
In the second semester, the program shifts to experience-based learning in
professional settings. Students are placed in renowned culinary establishments where
they:
- Apply classroom knowledge in real-world kitchens
- Refine their skills under expert mentorship
- Gain invaluable industry experience
This phase is designed to bridge the gap between education and professional practice,
accelerating students’ readiness for leadership roles in the culinary field.
From mastering complex flavour profiles to understanding the broader context of
Mediterranean food culture, the MGEP program shapes future culinary experts,
innovators, and ambassadors of Mediterranean gastronomy.
At MGEP, we believe that the right placement is the foundation of a successful career.
That’s why we prioritize finding the ideal match between each student and their host
company—ensuring the experience is not only valuable, but also tailored to each
individual’s strengths, goals, and potential.
Each placement decision is guided by a comprehensive, multidisciplinary evaluation
carried out by:
- Faculty Members
- Academic Coordinators
- Professional Coaches
- Human Resources Experts
Once the destination is chosen, the Didactic Team takes full responsibility for:
- Drafting the official Training Agreement
- Designing a Personalized Training Project tailored to each student’s career path
- Ensuring continuous support and monitoring through a dedicated Company
Tutor
This collaborative system ensures that every student’s placement is meaningful, goal-oriented, and aligned with both personal aspirations and professional standards.
Upon successful completion of the MGEP program, students receive recognized
credentials for a Global Culinary Career certifications that are widely respected across the international culinary and hospitality industries.
- Joint Education Certificate awarded by CAST (Italy), Institut Lyfe (France), andthe Institute of Tourism Studies (Malta) certificate is recognized in top-tier professional environments across Europe and beyond.
- European Qualification Recognition – EQF / MQF Level 5 Certificate, aligns with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) and the Malta Qualifications
Framework (MQF), providing a standardized, transferable qualification respectedacross the EU and other participating countries.
The MGEP program is designed for passionate and motivated individuals ready to
advance their careers in Mediterranean gastronomy. To ensure participants are
prepared for the rigor and depth of the course, applicants must meet the following
criteria:
Educational & Professional Background
One of the following is required:
- A Professional Hospitality Diploma (EQF/MQF Level 4 or equivalent) plus at least1 year of relevant industry experience,
OR - A minimum of 2 years of professional experience in the role of Sous Chef or a
comparable culinary position.
Language Proficiency
- An intermediate level of English (minimum B2 level) is required, as the programis conducted in English across international campuses.
Choosing the right educational path is more than selecting a course it’s a strategic investment in your future, career, and personal growth. At MGEP, we are committed to delivering a world-class learning experience that empowers students to thrive in theglobal culinary industry.
Our tuition reflects the quality, innovation, and opportunities that define this
international program:
- Expert-led instructions from renowned faculty
- State-of-the-art facilities across three prestigious campuses
- Hands-on training, cutting-edge techniques, and a vast professional network
Tuition Fee: €25,500.00
This fee covers the full Mediterranean Gastronomy Advanced Training Program,
inclusive of both semesters and all associated educational resources.
What’s Included in the Registration Fee?
Your tuition includes everything you need for a fully immersive and enriching
experience:
- Participation in all in-person practical activities, theoretical lessons, live
demonstrations, teaching exercises - Access to digital course materials, including handouts and cookbooks
- VISA support services for international students
- Personal professional small parts kit
- Uniform package: 2 professional jackets, 1 pair of trousers, 2 aprons
- Daily lunch and coffee breaks during course sessions
- Full access to the CAST student portal, including lesson summaries, digital
notes, and educational resources - Use of AI Made in CAST, an artificial intelligence platform tailored to culinary
learning, accessible throughout the program - Membership in the CAST community, with exclusive benefits including a 10%
discount on Masterclasses
YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE
This program is designed not just to teach, but to transform building the skills,
confidence, and network that will support a lifelong career in Mediterranean
gastronomy.
