Program Analysis
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's Dental Support Services program produces graduates earning $53,559/yr — within striking distance of the $60,938 national average for this field.
The 10.1x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. By pure financial math, this is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 24% task exposure — and the 6% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $21,500 in median debt clears quickly against $53,559 in annual earnings.
At #48 out of 74 programs, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's financial outcomes for Dental Support Services trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $53,559 to $57,061 over five years (7% gain). This field may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.