Dental Support Services at Fortis College-Norfolk
with a smaller student body of 431 in Norfolk, VA.
Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $22,928/yr fall 37% below the $36,429 national median for Dental Support Services. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
The 17.6x 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 3% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Dental Support Services graduates.
At $10,816 in median debt against $22,928 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
At #490 out of 513 programs, Fortis College-Norfolk's financial outcomes for Dental Support Services trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $22,928 to $24,604 over five years (7% gain). This trade may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.
Dental Support Services 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 Support Services 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% |
About Dental Support Services Careers
Your career will likely begin chairside as a dental assistant. You’ll be the dentist’s right hand, preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, passing tools during procedures, and operating the suction hose. You'll also be a key patient contact, taking X-rays and making people feel at ease. Many professionals use this experience as a launchpad, returning to school to become a dental hygienist.
Compare & Explore
Dental Support Services Overview
Dental Support Services at Other Schools
Other Majors at Fortis College-Norfolk
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