Dental Assisting at Centura College-Virginia Beach
a smaller institution with 8 students in Virginia Beach, VA.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $24,569 place Centura College-Virginia Beach below the $36,429 national median for Dental Assisting — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
With a 16.0x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 3% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Dental Assisting career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
With first-year pay of $24,569 far exceeding the $9,500 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
A #489 ranking among 513 Dental Assisting programs places Centura College-Virginia Beach in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The limited growth from $24,569 to $26,362 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.
For students considering alternatives, 4 registered apprenticeship programs align with Dental Assisting careers — offering paid training instead of tuition costs.
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 Dental Assisting graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health specialties teachers, postsecondary | $105,620 | +17.3% | 52% |
| Dental hygienists | $94,260 | +7.0% | 81% |
| Dental laboratory technicians | $48,310 | -4.7% | 96% |
Dental Assisting Career Guide
From day-one roles to senior positions, Dental Assisting careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering healthcare.
Compare & Explore
Dental Assisting Overview
Dental Assisting at Other Schools
Other Majors at Centura College-Virginia Beach
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.