Culinary Arts at Southwestern Oregon Community College
a smaller institution with 1,199 students in Coos Bay, OR.
Program Analysis
Southwestern Oregon Community College's Culinary Arts graduates start at $27,727/yr — above the $23,994 national average, though not by a wide margin.
Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 52.4x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Culinary Arts programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Culinary Arts's career paths, with 20% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 20% gap from the optimistic case.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $12,000 in median debt clears fast against $27,727 in annual earnings.
At #20 of 137 nationally, this is a top-5% Culinary Arts program. Financial outcomes consistently outperform the vast majority of peers.
Earnings grow from $27,727 to $34,658 over five years — a 25% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
Culinary Arts offers 17 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.
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 Southwestern Oregon 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 Southwestern Oregon Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.