Culinary Arts and Related Services at Tidewater Community College
with a mid-sized student body of 11,797 in Norfolk, VA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $21,368/yr, roughly in line with the $23,994 national median for Culinary Arts and Related Services. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
With a 39.1x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 0% spread between best and worst-case AI scenarios signals strong resilience. Most careers in Culinary Arts and Related Services involve physical, hands-on work that current AI cannot replicate.
At $16,000 against $21,368/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #70 ranking among 137 Culinary Arts and Related Services programs places Tidewater Community College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
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
Other Majors at Tidewater Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.