Dental Support Services at Pima Medical Institute-San Antonio
with a smaller student body of 341 in San Antonio, TX.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $27,301 place Pima Medical Institute-San Antonio below the $36,429 national median for Dental Support Services — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
Some AI exposure exists in Dental Support Services's career paths, with 24% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 18% gap from the optimistic case.
With first-year pay of $27,301 far exceeding the $8,508 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #306 of 513 Dental Support Services programs, Pima Medical Institute-San Antonio falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $27,301 to $33,638 over five years — a 23% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.
There are 4 registered apprenticeship pathways mapped to Dental Support Services, including Dental Assistant (Alternate Title: Dental Specialist) (median $47,300/yr). Apprenticeships offer an alternative route that combines paid work with structured training.
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 Pima Medical Institute-San Antonio
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.