Dental Support Services at Lakeland Community College
a compact campus enrolling 3,143 students in Kirtland, OH.
Program Analysis
Graduates of Lakeland Community College's Dental Support Services program earn $48,254/yr in their first year — 32% above the $36,429 national median, a strong market signal for this institution.
With a 72.2x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 10% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Dental Support Services career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
At $9,950 in median debt against $48,254 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
Lakeland Community College ranks #81 among 513 Dental Support Services programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The limited growth from $48,254 to $55,037 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.
For students considering alternatives, 4 registered apprenticeship programs align with Dental Support Services careers — offering paid training instead of tuition costs.
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 Lakeland Community College
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