From Street Stalls to Diplomas: China's First Barbecue College Starts Recruiting

Forget law schools and business degrees – a university in central China is turning barbecue into a real career, complete with diplomas, certifications and startup support.

Yueyang Barbecue College, jointly set up by Yueyang Open University and the Yueyang Barbecue Association, began recruiting students on March 9 for its 2026 intake, Jiupai News reported.

Yueyang's barbecue scene has exploded over the past four decades, now boasting more than 2,000 outlets, employing over 50,000 people, and generating more than 2 billion yuan (US$275 million) a year – making it a major driver of jobs and local flavor.

The college offers flexibility for working students, blending online lessons with in-person training. Students will learn everything from picking the right ingredients and controlling charcoal flames to crafting signature flavors, running restaurants, and even starting their own businesses.

More than 30 veteran grill masters have been hired to teach the courses, supported by custom textbooks covering the history, techniques, and business side of Yueyang barbecue.

After two and a half to three years of academic study followed by one month of intensive skills training, graduates will leave with both a nationally recognized diploma and a vocational certificate as a certified barbecue chef.

A shorter one-month course focused on practical skills is also available, with participants receiving a vocational certificate upon completion, according to the source.

"Public interest has been very high," said Hu Jun, president of Yueyang Barbecue College. "We've received a large number of calls from both people already in the industry and those looking to start their own barbecue businesses."

The program also offers entrepreneurship support, including simulated night market training and guidance on site selection, store design, supply chains and operations.

The college said it has partnered with local restaurants to create employment pipelines and is working with banks to provide low-interest loans to help students fund their studies or start businesses.