Class Size
Be sure to find out how many students will be enrolled on the culinary art course you choose. It's important that classes are no too large, you don't want the tutors attention spread too thinly across the class. From the schools point of view, larger class sizes enable lower course costs but be sure you're comfortable with the class size.
Class Facilities
Check out what facilities the course has available to the student. Does it have a bake house, library, resource center, how many kitchens, computer facilities, lecture rooms, dining rooms etc... The nature and number of facility give an indication of the quality of the course in general.
Accreditations and Qualifications
Find out what you'll get at the end of the course in terms of accreditation or qualification. If it's formal qualifications that are important to you, ensure you're aware of the pass requirements you will be expected to meet.
Location of Culinary School
Possible the most critical factor if you are intending to do a part-time / evening culinary course. If you need to remain living in the area you currently situated then you'll need a course nearby.
Culinary Course Pre-requisites
Some culinary courses will require some degree of entry requirements such as a high school diploma or GED. You may also be required to enter a formal essay as part of the process. Ensure you'll be comfortable with these requirements before applying.
Length of Culinary Course
The length of course will vary depending of the degree of accreditation. Courses linked to some sort of qualification or accreditation are likely to last longer than those courses intended as gentle introductions to cooking. Some degree courses last as long as four years.
Cost of Courses
The costs of culinary courses varies again based on the level of accreditations of qualifications attached. For example a bachelor degree could be in the region of $60,000 to $70,000 plus expenses. Local evening classes on the other hand are likely to be within the reach of most peoples pockets. Financial aid is available for some courses to be sure to enquire.
Course Content
Take a look at the course syllabus to ensure the areas you're interested in are covered. Make sure you're comfortable will all the content especially with course linked to accreditations or qualifications.