Analysis
Based on comparable dental support programs in Georgia, this associate's degree appears positioned near the state median with estimated first-year earnings around $53,600, though the estimated debt load of nearly $25,000 runs well above what similar programs typically produce. That debt figure exceeds both the state median ($15,100) and national median ($19,300) by substantial margins, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 that, while manageable, suggests graduates will carry more financial burden than peers at other Georgia programs.
The earnings estimate aligns closely with what dental support graduates across Georgia actually earn—top programs like Georgia State and Savannah Technical report outcomes in the $54,000-$56,000 range. However, the estimated debt picture deserves closer scrutiny. With 62% of Andrew College students receiving Pell grants, higher borrowing costs could disproportionately affect students who can least afford extended repayment periods. Technical colleges across Georgia consistently deliver similar outcomes with roughly $10,000 less in student debt.
Before committing, compare actual debt outcomes at nearby technical colleges offering dental support programs. The career path itself appears solid—dental hygienists and assistants find stable employment—but starting your child's career with $10,000 extra in loans compared to peer programs means real money that won't be going toward rent, transportation, or building savings in those crucial early years.
Where Andrew College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all dental support services and allied professions associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Dental Support Services and Allied Professions associates's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $19,126 | $53,573* | — | $24,764* | — | |
| $8,478 | $56,474* | $54,036 | $15,100* | 0.27 | |
| $2,960 | $56,474* | $54,036 | $15,100* | 0.27 | |
| $3,072 | $54,090* | $51,183 | $7,250* | 0.13 | |
| $3,122 | $53,056* | $47,348 | —* | — | |
| $3,180 | $48,057* | $53,397 | $15,516* | 0.32 | |
| National Median | — | $55,016* | — | $19,309* | 0.35 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with dental support services and allied professions graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Andrew College, approximately 62% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 6 similar programs in GA. Actual outcomes may vary.