Culinary Arts at Institute of Technology
a compact campus enrolling 1,376 students in Clovis, CA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $21,509/yr, roughly in line with the $23,994 national median for Culinary Arts. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 30% gap between optimistic and pessimistic AI scenarios is notable. With 20% of typical tasks exposed to automation, AI adoption could meaningfully shift career outcomes for Culinary Arts graduates.
With first-year pay of $21,509 far exceeding the $9,500 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #82 of 137 Culinary Arts programs, Institute of Technology falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $21,509 to $30,052 over five years — a 40% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
Culinary Arts offers 17 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Culinary Arts graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food scientists and technologists | $85,310 | +6.5% | 65% |
| Postsecondary teachers, all other | $78,490 | +1.8% | 100% |
| Food service managers | $65,310 | +6.4% | 58% |
Culinary Arts Career Guide
Explore what Culinary Arts graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 137 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Culinary Arts Overview
Culinary Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at Institute of Technology
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.