On March 9, Yueyang Barbecue College in Hunan province launched enrollment for its 2026 “degree + skills” training program. It is China’s first barbecue industry college, co-founded by Yueyang Open University and the local barbecue association to cultivate talents with both academic credentials and professional skills.
Yueyang has over 2,000 barbecue restaurants, employing 50,000 people with an annual output exceeding 2 billion yuan. To support the local cuisine’s expansion, the college offers flexible schedules combining online and offline teaching. Students learn everything from ingredient selection to restaurant management using three school-compiled textbooks.
Graduates will receive a nationally recognized degree and a vocational skill certificate. The college also provides entrepreneurship guidance, partnerships with local restaurants, and bank loans to support students’ career dreams.
