Dental Assisting at Lake Land College
a smaller institution with 2,492 students in Mattoon, IL.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $58,853 put Lake Land College's Dental Assisting program 62% above the national median of $36,429 — one of the higher-earning programs in this field.
With a 71.9x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 0% 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 $58,853 far exceeding the $8,000 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Lake Land College ranks #61 among 513 Dental Assisting programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
For students considering alternatives, 4 registered apprenticeship programs align with Dental Assisting careers — offering paid training instead of tuition costs.
Earnings Overview
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
What can you do with a Dental Assisting credential from Lake Land College? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.
Compare & Explore
Dental Assisting Overview
Dental Assisting at Other Schools
Other Majors at Lake Land College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.