Dental Support Services and Allied Professions at Ross Medical Education Center-Saginaw

Ross Medical Education Center's Saginaw location produces earnings that sit right at Michigan's median for dental support programs, but that's not the full picture. At $23,566 in first-year earnings, graduates here trail the national median by about $1,700—and more critically, they're earning roughly $13,000 less than peers at Michigan's top-performing schools like Washtenaw Community College. The 60th percentile state ranking means this program is middle-of-the-road among Michigan options, not a standout.

The debt load of $9,500 is manageable—just under half of first-year earnings—but the nearly flat earnings trajectory is what warrants attention. Growing only $345 over four years suggests limited advancement potential in the roles graduates secure. With 85% of students qualifying for Pell grants, this certificate serves a population that needs financial aid to work quickly, and it does deliver that: graduates can reasonably pay down modest debt on dental assistant wages. However, families should know that other Michigan programs exist that could potentially double long-term earning power for similar or even lower debt.

If quick workforce entry at minimal cost is the priority, this program accomplishes that goal. But if your student has the flexibility to commute or relocate within Michigan, exploring programs at community colleges with stronger earning outcomes would likely prove worthwhile, especially given that the debt levels are comparable across schools.