Dental Support Services at Dorsey College-Dearborn
a smaller institution with 450 students in Detroit, MI.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $18,208 place Dorsey College-Dearborn below the $36,429 national median for Dental Support Services — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
The 10.3x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 24% task exposure — and the 20% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Dental Support Services graduates.
The $13,000 debt-to-$18,208 income ratio translates to about 9 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #509 out of 513 programs, Dorsey College-Dearborn's financial outcomes for Dental Support Services trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $18,208 to $22,817 shows 25% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
Dental Support Services connects to 4 apprenticeship options. The earn-while-you-learn model can be a strong alternative or complement to a certificate program.
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 Support Services 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% |
About Dental Support Services Careers
Your career will likely begin chairside as a dental assistant. You’ll be the dentist’s right hand, preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, passing tools during procedures, and operating the suction hose. You'll also be a key patient contact, taking X-rays and making people feel at ease. Many professionals use this experience as a launchpad, returning to school to become a dental hygienist.
Compare & Explore
Dental Support Services Overview
Dental Support Services at Other Schools
Other Majors at Dorsey College-Dearborn
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.