Culinary Arts at Valencia College
serving a student body of 35,125 in Orlando, FL.
Program Analysis
At $25,227 per year, Culinary Arts graduates from Valencia College earn slightly above the $23,994 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.
With a 61.1x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 13% 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.
The median debt load of $11,422 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Valencia College ranks #21 among 137 Culinary Arts programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The limited growth from $25,227 to $29,578 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
From day-one roles to senior positions, Culinary Arts careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering personal services.
Compare & Explore
Culinary Arts Overview
Culinary Arts at Other Schools
Other Majors at Valencia College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.