Dental Support Services and Allied Professions at UEI College-Stockton

This dental support services program at UEI College-Stockton shows concerning earning potential that falls well below both national and state standards. With first-year earnings of just $19,904, graduates earn about $5,000 less than the national median and nearly $5,000 below California's median for this field. The program ranks in only the 10th percentile nationally and 25th percentile among California programs—meaning 75-90% of similar programs produce better-earning graduates.

While the relatively low debt load of $9,500 keeps the debt-to-earnings ratio manageable at 0.48, the absolute earning levels are problematic. Even after four years, median earnings reach only $26,229, which is barely above the poverty line for a family. The 32% earnings growth is encouraging, but it's starting from such a low base that it doesn't meaningfully change the financial picture. Comparing to top California programs reveals the stark difference—Cabrillo College graduates earn nearly four times more ($74,741) in the same field.

For an anxious parent, this data suggests looking elsewhere. California has 96 programs in this field, and this one performs poorly relative to alternatives. With 71% of students receiving Pell grants, this appears to be a program that may not deliver the economic mobility students need, despite serving a predominantly low-income population that would benefit most from strong career outcomes.