Dental Support Services at Parkland College
a compact campus enrolling 3,293 students in Champaign, IL.
Program Analysis
At $47,133 per year, Dental Support Services graduates from Parkland College significantly outpace the $36,429 national average for this trade, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.
With a 61.7x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 7% 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.
The median debt load of $12,600 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
Parkland College ranks #98 among 513 Dental Support Services programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The limited growth from $47,133 to $52,300 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 Parkland College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.