Dental Assisting at Carrington College-Mesa
a compact campus enrolling 492 students in Mesa, AZ.
Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $26,485/yr fall 27% below the $36,429 national median for Dental Assisting. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
The 16% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Dental Assisting career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
At $8,789 in median debt against $26,485 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
A #308 ranking among 513 Dental Assisting programs places Carrington College-Mesa in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
A 20% earnings increase from $26,485 to $31,832 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.
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 Carrington College-Mesa
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