Pulaski Tech describes 3D culinary, baking and hospitality program; lists $27,135 three‑year tuition and strong job outcomes

Dr. Mary Catherine Miller, 3D program director at Pulaski Technical College, told the task force that the 3D program is a comprehensive transition and postsecondary program that integrates students with their traditional peers across culinary, baking and hospitality tracks.

Miller said the program has enrolled 97 students since it began and has celebrated 57 graduations; the program’s completion rate is about 74 percent. She highlighted student outcomes: graduating seniors carry a cumulative GPA of 3.55, many have made dean's or chancellor's lists, students have earned college credit (405 credits reported for a recent cohort) and graduates commonly enter paid employment or special‑event work. Miller said several graduates have multi‑year continuous employment at local employers including David’s Burgers, Chick‑fil‑A and Chicken Salad Chick.

Asked how success is measured, Miller explained Pulaski Tech uses a combination of industry rubrics and assessments of professionalism and reliability in addition to academic grades. On integration, Miller said students spend the first year in program‑specific classes and then move into integrated coursework with traditional students in years two and three; integration helps build mentoring relationships and workplace readiness.

On cost, Miller reported that the three‑year program tuition totals $27,135 (about $5,700 per semester). She outlined common ways families offset that cost, including the Arkansas Governor’s GETS transition scholarship, FAFSA aid, and Arkansas rehabilitation services contributions; Miller said that, after those sources apply, many students owe nothing.

The program director asked the task force and community partners to help expand practicum and internship sites in the community to increase placement opportunities; Pulaski Tech said it would welcome local business engagement.