A Center for the Study of Food was conceived to be more than a typical culinary school. As an academic department of NorthWest Arkansas Community College (NWACC), Brightwater offers uniquely holistic programming with academic and career training in the areas of culinary nutrition, artisanal food, beverage management and food entrepreneurship.

Brightwater breaks the mold by focusing on the larger food system, culinary skills, wellness, and strengthening local food networks to change the paradigm of culinary education. Assembling a core group of chef instructors and culinary masters, the school's Artisanal Food, Beverage Arts, Baking & Pastry and Culinary Arts programs teach and inspire students, industry professionals, and the general public in an innovative educational setting.