ProStart is a national two-year high school program that blends classroom learning with real industry experience, supported by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) and local industry partners.
What is ProStart®?
A Proven Pathway to Hospitality Careers
What Students Learn:
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Culinary fundamentals
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Food safety & ServSafe®
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Management & marketing
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Nutrition & cost control
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Customer service & teamwork
Show You’re Ready with a ProStart COA
The ProStart Certificate of Achievement (COA) is an industry-recognized certificate that signifies a strong foundation in the basic management and culinary skills considered critical to success by industry leaders.
To earn it, you’ll pass the Year 1 and Year 2 National Restaurant Association exams and complete 400 hours of mentored work experience.
Download the National ProStart Collegiate Passport to see where your COA can take you.
The ProStart Invitational
Each year, South Carolina ProStart students put their skills to the test at the state’s premier culinary and restaurant management competition — the South Carolina ProStart Invitational. Teams showcase what they’ve learned, compete for scholarships, and connect with industry leaders from across the state.

