Culinary Arts at City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College
a smaller institution with 1,564 students in Chicago, IL.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $19,447 place City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College below the $23,994 national median for Culinary Arts — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
With a 23.2x 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 involve physical, hands-on work that current AI cannot replicate.
A #110 ranking among 137 Culinary Arts programs places City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
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
Explore what Culinary Arts graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 137 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Culinary Arts Overview
Culinary Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.