Culinary Arts at Lake Land College
a compact campus enrolling 2,492 students in Mattoon, IL.
Program Analysis
Lake Land College's Culinary Arts graduates start at $14,366/yr, trailing the $23,994 national average by 40%. The program's value hinges on affordability.
The 35.1x 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.
With only 20% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, the scenario spread is tight at 0%. Career paths for Culinary Arts are among the more automation-resistant trades we analyze.
At #92 out of 137 programs, Lake Land College's financial outcomes for Culinary Arts trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
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
Culinary Arts opens doors to multiple career tracks. Our pillar guide covers every mapped occupation with salary data and AI resilience ratings.
Compare & Explore
Culinary Arts Overview
Culinary Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at Lake Land College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.