Culinary Arts at Texas State Technical College

Texas State Technical College's Culinary Arts certificate graduates earn around $21,000 within their first year—close to national and state medians—but this program sits in the bottom 40% when compared to other Texas culinary programs. More concerning, earnings actually decline slightly over time, dropping to $20,027 by year four. While the debt load of $10,721 is manageable at roughly half a year's earnings, graduates are making significantly less than peers at Dallas College ($30,484) or even Remington College-Dallas ($25,389), a gap of nearly $10,000 annually that compounds over a career.

For a family considering this certificate, the practical reality is straightforward: your child could graduate with similar or less debt from several other Texas programs while earning 20-40% more right out of the gate. The 45% Pell grant enrollment suggests TSTC serves students who need affordable options, and the debt level itself isn't alarming. But when nearby programs consistently produce better earnings outcomes with comparable or lower debt, the value proposition weakens considerably.

If Waco's location is essential or your child has specific reasons to attend TSTC, this program won't bury them in debt. But if geography is flexible, exploring Dallas College or other higher-performing Texas culinary programs could mean an extra $5,000-10,000 per year in earning potential—a difference that matters considerably at this income level.