Dental Assisting at The College of Health Care Professions-Northwest
a smaller institution with 3,794 students in Houston, TX.
Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $21,569/yr fall 41% below the $36,429 national median for Dental Assisting. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
AI risk is moderate — 24% task exposure — and the 24% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Dental Assisting graduates.
At $6,361 in median debt against $21,569 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
At #428 out of 513 programs, The College of Health Care Professions-Northwest's financial outcomes for Dental Assisting trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $21,569 to $28,294 shows 31% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
Dental Assisting 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 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
Explore what Dental Assisting graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 513 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Dental Assisting Overview
Dental Assisting at Other Schools
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