Dental Assisting at Delta College of Arts & Technology-Lafayette Campus
a smaller institution with 183 students in Lafayette, LA.
Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $21,546/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 17% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Dental Assisting graduates.
At $5,700 in median debt against $21,546 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
At #439 out of 513 programs, Delta College of Arts & Technology-Lafayette Campus's financial outcomes for Dental Assisting trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $21,546 to $26,205 shows 22% 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
What can you do with a Dental Assisting credential from Delta College of Arts & Technology-Lafayette Campus? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.
Compare & Explore
Dental Assisting Overview
Dental Assisting at Other Schools
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