Dental Support Services and Allied Professions at Kirkwood Community College

Kirkwood's dental support program ranks near the bottom among Iowa's seven programs—10th percentile statewide—with first-year earnings of $36,885 compared to the state median of $57,921. That's a $21,000 gap that doesn't close over time. Iowa Western Community College graduates earn $64,917 in their first year, nearly 76% more than Kirkwood graduates in the same field. Even at the national level, this program lands in just the 12th percentile, suggesting the issue isn't unique to Iowa comparisons.

The modest $14,978 debt load is below average, but the 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio still means nearly five months of gross income goes toward student loans—high for a program with such limited earning potential. Earnings remain essentially flat between year one and year four, offering little hope that experience will bridge the gap to peer programs. For context, graduates from Iowa Central or Indian Hills start $20,000+ ahead and likely maintain that advantage throughout their careers.

If your child is committed to dental support services in Iowa, the data strongly suggests looking at alternative programs. The lower debt at Kirkwood doesn't compensate for starting a career earning 36% below the state median in a field where higher-earning options are readily available at other community colleges.