Culinary Arts at Kirkwood Community College
enrolling 7,438 students in Cedar Rapids, IA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $21,391/yr, roughly in line with the $23,994 national median for Culinary Arts. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 31.0x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI exposure is significant at 20% of job tasks, producing a 40% spread between best and worst-case decade earnings. The field isn't immune to disruption.
With first-year pay of $21,391 far exceeding the $9,511 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #85 out of 137 programs, Kirkwood Community College's financial outcomes for Culinary Arts trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $21,391 to $40,714 over five years (90% increase) indicates that graduates in this trade see meaningful salary progression.
With 17 registered apprenticeships mapped to Culinary Arts, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
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
From day-one roles to senior positions, Culinary Arts careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering personal services.
Compare & Explore
Culinary Arts Overview
Culinary Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at Kirkwood Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.