Culinary Arts and Related Services at National Louis University
A 93% acceptance rate means National Louis University is accessible to most applicants, a compact campus enrolling 4,100 students in Chicago, IL.
Program Analysis
National Louis University's Culinary Arts and Related Services program produces graduates earning $24,786/yr — within striking distance of the $23,994 national average for this trade.
With a 17.4x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
Career paths for Culinary Arts and Related Services carry above-average AI exposure (20% of tasks). The 40% scenario spread means the difference between optimistic and pessimistic outcomes is substantial.
At $12,833 against $24,786/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #93 ranking among 137 Culinary Arts and Related Services programs places National Louis University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The $24,786-to-$42,444 earnings arc over five years reflects a 71% gain — well above average career growth for trade school graduates.
The 17 apprenticeship pathways connected to Culinary Arts and Related Services 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 and Related Services 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% |
About Culinary Arts and Related Services Careers
Your career will likely begin in the controlled chaos of a professional kitchen. As a restaurant cook, you'll spend your days prepping ingredients with precision and working the line during a busy service, mastering the grill, sauté pans, and fryer. This path is seeing incredible growth, with huge demand for skilled cooks.
Read the full Culinary Arts and Related Services career guide →
Compare & Explore
Culinary Arts and Related Services Overview
Culinary Arts and Related Services at Other Schools
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.