Dental Assisting at Virginia Western Community College
a smaller institution with 3,777 students in Roanoke, VA.
Program Analysis
Virginia Western Community College Dental Assisting graduates command $61,030/yr out of the gate, well above the $36,429 national median. That 68% premium suggests the program's industry reputation carries real labor-market weight.
With a 63.2x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 4% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Dental Assisting career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $9,091 in median debt clears fast against $61,030 in annual earnings.
Virginia Western Community College ranks #69 among 513 Dental Assisting programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.
The limited growth from $61,030 to $65,927 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 Assisting 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 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 Virginia Western Community College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.