Dental Assisting at Central New Mexico Community College
with a mid-sized student body of 15,246 in Albuquerque, NM.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $27,816 place Central New Mexico Community College below the $36,429 national median for Dental Assisting — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
The 191.8x 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 22% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Dental Assisting graduates.
Ranked #118 out of 513 programs, Central New Mexico Community College's Dental Assisting program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $27,816 to $35,755 shows 29% 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
Other Majors at Central New Mexico Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.