Median Earnings (1yr)
$25,232
50th percentile
40th percentile in New Jersey
Median Debt
$11,250
18% above national median

Analysis

This dental support program offers a solid foundation with manageable debt, though earnings lag slightly behind New Jersey's best options. At $25,232 in first-year earnings, graduates earn essentially the national average but fall into the 40th percentile among New Jersey programs—meaning 60% of similar state programs produce higher-earning graduates. The standout here is debt control: at $11,250, this program keeps borrowing well below the national median of $9,500 for similar programs, landing in the favorable 15th percentile nationally.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 means graduates typically earn back their total borrowing in less than six months—a manageable burden that shouldn't derail financial stability. Earnings do grow meaningfully over time, reaching $29,559 by year four, which represents solid 17% growth in the field. However, the top performer in New Jersey (Lincoln Technical Institute) produces graduates earning $30,560 initially, suggesting room for improvement.

For families seeking affordable entry into dental support roles, this program delivers reasonable value without excessive debt risk. The 73% Pell grant rate indicates it serves many lower-income students successfully. While not the strongest earner in the state, the combination of controlled costs and steady earnings growth makes this a practical choice for students prioritizing debt minimization over maximum earning potential.

Where Fortis Institute-Wayne Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all dental support services and allied professions certificate's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How Fortis Institute-Wayne graduates compare to all programs nationally

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

School1 Year4 YearsGrowth
Fortis Institute-Wayne$25,232$29,559+17%
Lincoln Technical Institute-Iselin$30,560$31,465+3%
Fortis Institute-Lawrenceville$25,232$29,559+17%
American Institute-Clifton$25,355$26,164+3%
American Institute-Toms River$25,355$26,164+3%

Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey

Dental Support Services and Allied Professions certificate's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (15 total in state)

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SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Fortis Institute-WayneWayne$25,232$29,559$11,2500.45
Lincoln Technical Institute-IselinIselin$30,560$31,465$10,1740.33
American Institute-CliftonCLIFTON$25,355$26,164$11,4710.45
American Institute-Toms RiverToms River$25,355$26,164$11,4710.45
American Institute-SomersetSomerset$25,355$26,164$11,4710.45
American Institute-Cherry HillCherry Hill$25,355$26,164$11,4710.45
National Median$25,255—$9,5000.38

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with dental support services and allied professions graduates

Dental Hygienists

Administer oral hygiene care to patients. Assess patient oral hygiene problems or needs and maintain health records. Advise patients on oral health maintenance and disease prevention. May provide advanced care such as providing fluoride treatment or administering topical anesthesia.

$94,260/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Dental Assistants

Perform limited clinical duties under the direction of a dentist. Clinical duties may include equipment preparation and sterilization, preparing patients for treatment, assisting the dentist during treatment, and providing patients with instructions for oral healthcare procedures. May perform administrative duties such as scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes.

$47,300/yrJobs growth:Postsecondary nondegree award

Dental Laboratory Technicians

Construct and repair full or partial dentures or dental appliances.

$45,820/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent
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 Fortis Institute-Wayne, approximately 73% 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.