Dental Assisting at Colorado Northwestern Community College
a compact campus enrolling 500 students in Rangely, CO.
Program Analysis
Colorado Northwestern Community College Dental Assisting graduates command $62,148/yr out of the gate, well above the $36,429 national median. That 71% premium suggests the program's industry reputation carries real labor-market weight.
With a 73.0x 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.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $13,000 in median debt clears fast against $62,148 in annual earnings.
At #47 of 513 programs, this Dental Assisting program outperforms the majority of its peers. The top 10% ranking reflects consistently above-average outcomes.
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
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 Colorado Northwestern Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.