Dental Support Services and Allied Professions at Owens Community College

With only about two dozen graduates tracked, Owens' dental support program produces earnings that lag behind most Ohio competitors—$46,000 starting out versus a state median of nearly $49,000. While that might seem like a modest gap, consider that top Ohio programs like Fortis College-Centerville and University of Cincinnati place graduates earning $57,000 to $64,000. Among Ohio's 17 dental support programs, Owens sits at the 40th percentile, meaning six in ten programs deliver better outcomes. The debt load of $21,000 is actually slightly above both state and national averages, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45 that's manageable but not exceptional.

The stagnant earnings growth—just $500 over four years—is worth noting. Many dental hygienists and assistants see their income plateau quickly, but even accounting for that industry pattern, Owens graduates aren't starting from a particularly strong position. At this price point and with these outcomes, families should seriously consider whether one of Ohio's stronger-performing programs might offer better career launching power. The small sample size means one good or bad cohort could skew these numbers significantly, but right now the data suggests this program delivers middle-of-the-pack results in a state with demonstrably better options.