Dental Support Services and Allied Professions at Carrington College-Albuquerque

Carrington College-Albuquerque's dental support program delivers earnings right at the state median while keeping debt slightly above it—a middle-of-the-road outcome in New Mexico's competitive landscape. At $26,485 after one year, graduates earn about $1,000 more than the national average, though nearby Central New Mexico Community College edges ahead by roughly $1,300 annually. The $8,933 in typical debt translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in about four months of gross income.

The 6% earnings bump from year one to year four is modest but steady, reaching $28,072—above the national 75th percentile. However, that debt load sits in the 75th percentile nationally, meaning three-quarters of similar programs nationwide require less borrowing. The high Pell grant percentage suggests this program serves students who may have limited financial cushion to absorb even moderate debt.

For families weighing this investment, the program works as intended: relatively quick entry into a stable field without catastrophic debt. But with 11 programs in New Mexico to choose from, shopping around could yield either lower costs or slightly higher starting pay. This is a functional pathway to dental support work, not a standout value.