Culinary Arts at Kapiolani Community College
a compact campus enrolling 3,955 students in Honolulu, HI.
Program Analysis
Kapiolani Community College's Culinary Arts graduates start at $26,882/yr — above the $23,994 national average, though not by a wide margin.
With a 58.6x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 28% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Culinary Arts career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
Kapiolani Community College ranks #15 among 137 Culinary Arts programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
A 36% earnings increase from $26,882 to $36,477 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.
The 17 apprenticeship pathways connected to Culinary Arts reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
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
What can you do with a Culinary Arts credential from Kapiolani Community College? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.
Compare & Explore
Culinary Arts Overview
Culinary Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at Kapiolani Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.