Dental Assisting at Pima Community College
serving 13,869 students in Tucson, AZ.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $26,087 place Pima Community College below the $36,429 national median for Dental Assisting — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
The 179.6x 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 37% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Dental Assisting graduates.
Ranked #148 out of 513 programs, Pima Community College's Dental Assisting offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
Earnings growth from $26,087 to $39,434 over five years (51% increase) indicates that graduates in this trade see meaningful 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
Explore what Dental Assisting graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 513 programs nationwide.
Compare & Explore
Dental Assisting Overview
Dental Assisting at Other Schools
Other Majors at Pima Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.