Culinary Arts at Ozarks Technical Community College
serving 8,194 students in Springfield, MO.
Program Analysis
At $25,879 per year, Culinary Arts graduates from Ozarks Technical Community College earn slightly above the $23,994 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.
With a 38.0x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 15% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Culinary Arts career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
The median debt load of $8,933 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
A #49 ranking among 137 Culinary Arts programs places Ozarks Technical Community College in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.
The limited growth from $25,879 to $30,961 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.
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 Ozarks Technical 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 Ozarks Technical Community College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.