Culinary Arts at Johnson & Wales University-Providence

Johnson & Wales University-Providence's culinary arts program delivers solid performance in a field known for modest starting salaries. With first-year earnings of $27,514, graduates earn about $1,000 more than the national average for culinary programs, placing them in the 66th percentile nationally. The debt load of $14,745 is reasonable—slightly below the national average—creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54.

The earnings trajectory looks promising, with graduates seeing 21% income growth by their fourth year, reaching $33,280. This growth rate suggests the program provides skills that become more valuable with experience. Within Rhode Island's limited culinary education landscape (just two schools), this program matches the state median for both earnings and debt, indicating competitive performance locally.

For an accessible program with an 84% admission rate, these outcomes represent good value. The combination of above-average starting salaries, below-average debt, and strong earnings growth makes this a practical choice for students serious about culinary careers. While culinary arts won't lead to six-figure salaries, Johnson & Wales provides a foundation for steady career advancement in the industry.