Dental Assisting at Central Community College
a smaller institution with 3,206 students in Grand Island, NE.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $53,860 put Central Community College's Dental Assisting program 48% above the national median of $36,429 — one of the higher-earning programs in this field.
The 83.9x 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 0% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Dental Assisting graduates.
With first-year pay of $53,860 far exceeding the $10,831 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #54 out of 513 programs, Central Community College's Dental Assisting program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
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
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
Other Majors at Central Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.